Westmorland Falls Walk – Mole Creek

A Secluded Waterfall Hidden in Lush Forest

The Westmorland Falls Walk is a peaceful forest walk near Mole Creek in northern Tasmania, leading through tall eucalypt forest and a lush understorey of ferns to a secluded waterfall hidden within Mole Creek Karst National Park. Unlike some of Tasmania’s better-known waterfalls, Westmorland Falls feels wonderfully tucked away. The journey is very much part of the attraction, with the track winding through green forest, tree ferns and shaded gullies before arriving at the falls. The walk is approximately 4 km return and takes around 2 hours, making it an excellent half-day option when exploring Mole Creek, the Great Western Tiers and the nearby cave country. It is particularly attractive after recent rainfall, when the falls are flowing strongly and the surrounding forest is at its greenest.

Walk Overview

Terrain

The walk begins from the small trailhead car park on Wet Caves Road at Caveside and follows a well-defined forest track toward the falls. The track passes through tall eucalypt forest with a varied understorey dominated by ferns, including impressive tree ferns. The official Grade 2 description indicates a hardened or compacted surface with gentle hills and occasional steps, although walkers should still expect natural forest surfaces, roots and wet sections. Closer to the waterfall, the environment becomes noticeably wetter and more enclosed, with dense vegetation surrounding the creek.

Difficulty

Westmorland Falls is officially promoted as a Grade 2 walk suitable for most ages.  There are no major climbs or technical sections, although the natural forest track can be uneven in places. After rain, mud and slippery roots can make sections slower than the Grade 2 rating might suggest. Allow the full two hours if you want time to enjoy the forest and waterfall rather than treating the walk as a quick out-and-back.

Walk Highlights

💦 Westmorland Falls

The destination is the secluded Westmorland Falls, tucked away within the forest of Mole Creek Karst National Park. Water drops and cascades through a rocky, fern-lined setting that feels surprisingly remote considering the relatively short walk required to reach it. The amount of water varies considerably with rainfall, so the falls are generally at their most dramatic after wet weather. The secluded setting is a big part of the appeal — this feels more like discovering a hidden forest waterfall than visiting a heavily developed roadside attraction.

🌿 Fern-Filled Forest

The forest walk is arguably as enjoyable as the waterfall itself. Tall eucalypts rise above an understorey rich in ferns, including large tree ferns that thrive in the moist gullies. The shaded environment creates a classic Tasmanian forest atmosphere, particularly after rain when mosses and ferns are at their freshest.

🪨 Mole Creek Karst Country

Westmorland Falls lies within the wider Mole Creek Karst National Park, an area famous for its limestone caves and unusual geology. Nearby attractions include Marakoopa Cave and King Solomons Cave, making the waterfall walk easy to combine with a day exploring the region’s underground landscapes. Discover Tasmania specifically highlights Westmorland Falls alongside the cave attractions as one of the walks to experience in the national park.

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes – preferably with good grip
• Waterproof jacket – the forest can stay damp even after rain has stopped
• Drinking water
• Warm layer – the shaded forest can remain cool
• Camera – the falls and fern gullies are particularly photogenic
• Insect repellent during warmer months

Safety

This is a straightforward family walk, but normal rainforest precautions still apply:

• Expect slippery roots and muddy ground after rain
• Wear shoes with good grip
• Stay on the formed track
• Take care around the creek and waterfall
• Supervise children near wet rocks
• Carry water and basic wet-weather clothing

Is the Walk Suitable for Children?

Yes.

Westmorland Falls is promoted as suitable for most ages, and its Grade 2 classification makes it a good family bushwalk. The waterfall provides a clear destination, while the ferns and forest create plenty of interest along the way. Younger children should still be supervised around slippery ground and the creek near the falls.

Are Dogs Allowed?

No. Westmorland Falls is within Mole Creek Karst National Park, and dogs should not be taken on the walking track. Current trail information also lists dogs as prohibited.

Getting There

Westmorland Falls is located near Caveside and Mole Creek in northern Tasmania. From Mole Creek, follow Caveside Road before turning onto Wet Caves Road. Continue along Wet Caves Road to the small car park at the Westmorland Falls trailhead. Discover Tasmania lists the address as Westmorland Falls Track, Wet Caves Road, Caveside TAS 7304. The final approach is on a quieter rural road, so drive to the conditions and watch carefully for the trailhead signage.

Facilities

Facilities at Westmorland Falls are limited.

Visitors should expect:

• Small trailhead car park
• Walking track
• No cafe or food services
• No substantial visitor facilities at the falls

Mole Creek and the surrounding tourist attractions provide the nearest substantial visitor services.

Best Time to Walk

Westmorland Falls can be walked throughout the year. For the waterfall itself, recent rainfall generally produces the most impressive conditions. Spring and early summer can be particularly attractive when the forest is lush, while the shaded route is also pleasant on warmer summer days. After prolonged heavy rain, expect wetter and muddier track conditions.

Why Walk to Westmorland Falls?

Westmorland Falls is a great choice for walkers who prefer quieter forest destinations to busy roadside attractions. The two-hour return walk is long enough to feel like a genuine bushwalk while remaining accessible to most visitors. Along the way you’ll experience tall eucalypt forest, beautiful tree ferns and the cool green gullies of the Great Western Tiers before arriving at a secluded waterfall hidden among the trees. Its location near Mole Creek also makes it easy to combine with Tasmania’s famous cave country.

For a relaxed family walk through lush northern Tasmanian forest to a hidden waterfall, Westmorland Falls is well worth adding to a Great Western Tiers itinerary.