Blue Tier Giant Walk
- August 4, 2026
A moderate loop through dense myrtle forest to Australia"s widest living tree, the 60m Giant Tree, and the enormous Cradle…
Deep in the rainforest near the cheese-making village of Pyengana, St Columba Falls plunges nearly 90 metres from the foothills of Mount Victoria, making it one of Tasmania’s tallest waterfalls. A short, easy walk through cool, shady rainforest filled with towering tree ferns leads to a viewing platform where the South George River tumbles down a spectacular series of steep cascades. Combined with a visit to the nearby Pyengana Dairy Company, this is one of North East Tasmania’s classic day trips.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | St Columba Falls State Reserve, Pyengana, Tasmania |
| Distance | Approximately 1.2 km return |
| Time | 30–45 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Track Type | Return |
| Track Surface | Well-formed gravel track with guardrails |
| Best Time to Visit | After rain or during winter when the waterfall is at its most impressive |
The walk follows a well-maintained path descending gently through cool temperate rainforest. Massive tree ferns, moss-covered vegetation and towering eucalypts surround the track, creating one of Tasmania’s most beautiful rainforest walks. The track finishes at a viewing platform overlooking the base of the falls before returning via the same route.
This is an easy walk suitable for most visitors. Although the return journey involves a gradual uphill climb, the track is well constructed with handrails along much of the route.
Dropping almost 90 metres into the South George River valley, St Columba Falls is one of Tasmania’s highest permanent waterfalls and is particularly spectacular after periods of rain.
The rainforest walk is every bit as rewarding as the waterfall itself, winding through lush vegetation and giant tree ferns that create a cool, peaceful atmosphere throughout the year.
Just a few minutes away, the famous Pyengana Dairy Company offers award-winning cheddar cheese, tastings and a café, making it the perfect stop before or after your walk.
Visit after heavy rain or during winter for the most dramatic waterfall. Allow extra time to enjoy lunch or a cheese tasting at nearby Pyengana Dairy Company.
Yes. This is an excellent family-friendly walk with a well-maintained path and guardrails for much of the route. Young children should still be supervised near the viewing area.
Dogs are generally permitted on a lead within St Columba Falls State Reserve, although visitors should always check current signage before setting out.
From St Helens, follow the Tasman Highway (A3) before turning onto St Columba Falls Road at Pyengana. Continue approximately 11 km to the picnic area and car park at the end of the road. The drive takes around 30 minutes.
If you’re looking for an easy rainforest walk that rewards you with one of Tasmania’s tallest waterfalls, St Columba Falls is hard to beat. The combination of lush rainforest, spectacular scenery and the nearby Pyengana Dairy Company makes this one of the highlights of North East Tasmania.
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