Julius River Rainforest Walk
- August 26, 2026
A gentle boardwalk loop through cool temperate rainforest in the Tarkine.
The Lake Chisholm Sinkhole Walk is a beautiful short rainforest walk in Tasmania’s remote north-west, leading through magnificent cool temperate forest to one of the Tarkine’s most unusual geological features. Lake Chisholm is not actually a conventional lake. It is a large water-filled sinkhole surrounded by dense rainforest, formed as part of the extensive karst landscape found beneath this part of north-west Tasmania. The relatively easy return walk passes beneath myrtle, sassafras and towering tree ferns before reaching the peaceful shores of Lake Chisholm. Reflections of the surrounding forest on the dark water make this an especially attractive destination for photographers.
| Location | Lake Chisholm Forest Reserve, Tarkine, North-West Tasmania |
| Distance | Approximately 1.2 km return |
| Time | Approximately 30–45 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Track Type | Return |
| Elevation Gain | Minimal |
| Track Surface | Formed forest track, boardwalk and natural surfaces |
| Suitable for Children | Yes – supervision required near the water |
| National Park Pass | Not generally required |
Lake Chisholm is one of the fascinating natural attractions found along the Tarkine Drive in Tasmania’s far north-west. The walk begins from a small parking area and follows a well-defined track into dense cool temperate rainforest. The forest is immediately impressive, with myrtle, sassafras, tree ferns, mosses and fallen logs creating the lush environment characteristic of the Tarkine. After a relatively short walk, the track reaches Lake Chisholm, where the forest surrounds a large, almost circular body of water. The peaceful setting and dark reflective water make it easy to understand why Lake Chisholm has become one of the better-known short walks along the Tarkine Drive.
The track passes through cool temperate rainforest on a combination of formed natural surfaces and boardwalk. There are no major climbs, although walkers should expect tree roots, damp ground and potentially slippery surfaces. Rainfall is common in this part of north-west Tasmania and sections of the track can remain wet even during relatively settled weather. Walking shoes with reasonable grip are recommended.
The Lake Chisholm Sinkhole Walk is relatively easy and suitable for most visitors with basic fitness. The distance is short, there are no significant climbs and the track is generally straightforward to follow. Allow approximately 30 to 45 minutes for the return walk, although photographers and visitors interested in the rainforest may want considerably longer.
The highlight of the walk is the impressive water-filled sinkhole itself. Lake Chisholm sits within a natural depression surrounded almost completely by rainforest. On calm days, the still water can produce beautiful reflections of the surrounding trees and vegetation. The combination of dark water, dense forest and filtered light creates a particularly peaceful atmosphere.
The walk passes through excellent examples of the cool temperate rainforest found throughout the Tarkine. Myrtle, sassafras and large tree ferns dominate sections of the forest, while mosses and lichens cover fallen timber and rocks. The forest floor can also contain an impressive variety of fungi, particularly during the cooler and wetter months.
Large tree ferns are one of the most noticeable features along the track. Their broad fronds create a dense green understory beneath the taller rainforest canopy and contribute to the almost prehistoric appearance of the forest.
Lake Chisholm is particularly attractive on calm days when the surrounding rainforest is reflected across the surface of the water. Early morning or periods of calm, overcast weather can provide excellent conditions for photography. Top Tip: Allow a little extra time at the lake. The walk itself is short, but the reflections and surrounding rainforest make Lake Chisholm an excellent place to stop quietly and enjoy the forest.
Despite its name, Lake Chisholm is actually a flooded sinkhole associated with the karst landscape beneath this part of Tasmania. Karst landscapes develop where water gradually dissolves soluble rock underground, creating cavities, caves and underground drainage systems. Over long periods, sections of the ground above these cavities can collapse, producing depressions known as sinkholes. At Lake Chisholm, one of these depressions has filled with water, producing the lake-like feature seen today.
Yes. The short distance and relatively gentle terrain make Lake Chisholm a good option for families. Children should be supervised around the water and on slippery sections of track or boardwalk. The rainforest environment can also make the walk interesting for younger visitors, with plenty of tree ferns, mosses, fungi and unusual forest features to discover along the way.
Visitors travelling with dogs should check the current requirements for Lake Chisholm Forest Reserve before visiting. Restrictions can apply within reserves and conservation areas even where a national park pass is not required.
Lake Chisholm is located in Tasmania’s far north-west and is most commonly visited as part of the Tarkine Drive. The walking track is reached from Sumac Road, with signs directing visitors towards the Lake Chisholm parking and walking area. The area is relatively remote, so visitors should allow plenty of travel time and ensure they have sufficient fuel before exploring the Tarkine Drive. Road conditions can change after storms or heavy rain, so drive according to conditions and check current road information when necessary.
A small parking area is available near the start of the Lake Chisholm walking track. From the parking area, the walking track enters the rainforest and continues towards the sinkhole.
Facilities at Lake Chisholm are limited. Visitors should be prepared for a relatively basic forest walking area rather than a developed visitor attraction. Bring your own drinking water, food and other supplies required for your visit.
Lake Chisholm can be visited throughout the year. Autumn and winter are particularly atmospheric in the rainforest, with mosses, lichens and fungi thriving in the cool and damp conditions. Spring provides fresh forest growth, while summer offers longer daylight hours for combining Lake Chisholm with other attractions along the Tarkine Drive. Overcast weather can be excellent for photography because the softer light helps bring out the rich greens of the rainforest and reduces glare from the surface of the lake.
Lake Chisholm is easily combined with several other Tarkine walks and attractions.
The Lake Chisholm Sinkhole Walk combines several of the features that make Tasmania’s Tarkine region so special: ancient rainforest, unusual geology, abundant ferns and mosses, and a peaceful wilderness atmosphere. The walk is short and relatively easy, making it an excellent choice for travellers who want to experience the Tarkine rainforest without committing to a long bushwalk. The destination itself is particularly unusual. Surrounded by dense forest, the dark waters of the flooded sinkhole can create beautiful reflections and an atmosphere quite different from Tasmania’s more familiar mountain lakes. Combined with nearby Julius River and other stops along the Tarkine Drive, Lake Chisholm is one of the most rewarding short rainforest walks in north-west Tasmania.
A gentle boardwalk loop through cool temperate rainforest in the Tarkine.
A short rainforest walk to a striking natural limestone arch and pool in the Tarkine.
