Trevallyn Dam Walk – Launceston

Bushland, River Views and the Trevallyn Dam

The Trevallyn Dam Walk explores the bushland surrounding Trevallyn Dam and Lake Trevallyn, just a short distance from central Launceston. The area forms part of the Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area and offers an attractive combination of dry eucalypt forest, rocky terrain, reservoir views and glimpses of the South Esk River. With a network of walking tracks rather than a single fixed route, visitors can choose a shorter walk around the dam area or combine several tracks for a longer outing. Its proximity to Launceston makes Trevallyn an excellent option for walkers wanting to enjoy the bush without travelling far from the city.

Walk Overview

See Also

• Cataract Gorge Circuit
• Duck Reach Power Station Walk
• Tamar Island Wetlands Walk

About Trevallyn Dam

Trevallyn Dam was constructed across the South Esk River as part of the Trevallyn hydro-electric development. The dam created Lake Trevallyn, a large reservoir surrounded by bushland immediately west of Launceston. Today the surrounding reserve is popular for walking, mountain biking, picnicking, fishing and other outdoor activities. Despite being only a short drive from central Launceston, much of the area has a surprisingly natural bushland feel.

Terrain

The walking tracks around Trevallyn pass through predominantly dry eucalypt forest and rocky bushland. Depending on the route chosen, walkers encounter gravel paths, natural bush tracks, exposed rock and several short climbs and descents. Some routes provide views across Lake Trevallyn, while others head deeper into the surrounding forest. Because there are numerous intersecting tracks, it is worth checking a map of the recreation area before setting out.

Difficulty

Most of the shorter walks around Trevallyn Dam are best described as Easy to Medium. There are some uneven and rocky sections, but walkers can generally choose a route appropriate to their fitness and available time. Longer combinations of tracks can provide a more substantial walk for visitors wanting to spend several hours exploring the reserve.

Walk Highlights

Trevallyn Dam

The dam itself is one of the main features of the area. Views across the dam wall and Lake Trevallyn provide an interesting contrast to the surrounding natural bushland.

Lake Trevallyn

The reservoir forms a broad expanse of water surrounded by forested hills. Several sections of the walking-track network provide attractive views across the lake.

Native Bushland

Much of the reserve consists of dry Tasmanian eucalypt forest, making this an enjoyable place for birdwatching and spotting native wildlife while remaining surprisingly close to Launceston.

Top Tip: Trevallyn has a network of intersecting walking and mountain-bike tracks rather than one single trail. Take a photo of the track map or have a map available on your phone before starting a longer walk.

What to Bring

• Drinking water
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun protection
• Hat and sunscreen
• Light rain or windproof jacket
• Snacks for longer walks
• Offline map or track map

Safety

• Keep to designated walking tracks.
• Take care on rocky and uneven sections, particularly after rain.
• Supervise children closely around the dam and reservoir.
• Be aware that some tracks are shared with mountain-bike riders.
• Carry sufficient drinking water during warmer weather.
• Check fire conditions before walking during summer.

Is the Walk Suitable for Children?

Yes. Trevallyn is a good location for families because the network of tracks allows you to choose a walk suited to the age and ability of your children. Shorter routes around the dam area are generally the best choice for younger children. Close supervision is important around Lake Trevallyn, the dam and any steep or rocky sections.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Dogs can be taken into designated parts of the Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area, but restrictions apply within the reserve. Keep dogs under effective control and follow all signs regarding areas where dogs are prohibited or must be restrained.

Getting There

Trevallyn Dam is located west of central Launceston and can be reached in approximately 15 minutes by car from the city centre. Follow signs towards Trevallyn and Lake Trevallyn, with access to the dam and recreation area from the surrounding local road network. Parking is available near the main recreation areas.

Facilities

Facilities are available around the main Trevallyn recreation areas, although what is available depends on where you begin your walk. Visitors should still carry their own drinking water, particularly if planning a longer walk through the reserve.

Combine Trevallyn with Cataract Gorge

Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area sits immediately west of one of Launceston’s best-known natural attractions, Cataract Gorge. This makes it easy to combine the two areas when spending a day exploring Launceston’s walking tracks. The nearby Duck Reach Power Station Walk is another excellent option, combining South Esk River scenery with the fascinating remains of Launceston’s historic hydro-electric power station.

Why Walk at Trevallyn Dam?

Trevallyn Dam is an excellent choice for walkers wanting an easily accessible bushwalking area close to Launceston. Instead of following one prescribed route, the network of tracks allows you to tailor the distance and difficulty to suit the time you have available. The combination of Lake Trevallyn, the dam, South Esk River scenery and dry eucalypt forest provides plenty of variety, while the reserve’s location only minutes from the city makes it particularly convenient. Whether you have an hour for a short stroll or want to link several tracks into a longer outing, Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area is one of Launceston’s most accessible bushwalking destinations.