Cataract Gorge Reserve
Tasmania
Cataract Gorge Reserve is a striking river gorge located just 1.5 kilometers from Launceston's city center in Tasmania, Australia. Formed by the South Esk River, the gorge offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it one of the region's premier tourist destinations. Visitors can explore the First Basin, a deep pool formed by erosion at the intersection of geological faults, surrounded by bushland and facilities including cafés and an inclinator. The northern side, known as the Cliff Grounds, features landscaped Victorian gardens with exotic plants and peacocks. The reserve also houses the historic Duck Reach Power Station, once the largest hydro-electric scheme of its time, now serving as an interpretive museum. Adventurous activities such as a chairlift ride-holding the record for the longest single-span chairlift in the world-boat cruises, cable hang gliding, and rock climbing provide diverse experiences. The area's rich history is reflected in features like King's Bridge and the original toll house near the gorge entrance. The South Esk River section here is renowned for world-class whitewater kayaking, with annual races held in January. This combination of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities makes Cataract Gorge Reserve a unique and captivating destination.
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Tip: The best time to visit Cataract Gorge Reserve is during the warmer months when the gardens are in full bloom and outdoor activities are accessible. Booking tickets or passes for the chairlift and inclinator in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. Visitors can enjoy discounted rates by purchasing combined tickets for multiple attractions within the reserve. Comfortable walking shoes are advised for exploring the walking paths and gardens. Early mornings or late afternoons offer quieter experiences and beautiful lighting for photography.
Interesting facts
- •The chairlift at Cataract Gorge is the longest single-span chairlift in the world, with a maximum span of 308 meters.
- •The First Basin's depth was once rumored to be bottomless, but measurements in 2016 confirmed a maximum depth of 20.5 meters.
- •Duck Reach Power Station was the largest hydro-electric scheme of its day and began lighting Launceston by 1895.
- •King's Bridge was the only bridge leading north out of Launceston for nearly 100 years.
- •The South Esk River section at the gorge is recognized internationally for world-class whitewater kayaking.
History
The earliest recorded European visitor to Cataract Gorge was William Collins in 1804.
In the 1890s, volunteers built the King's Bridge-Cataract Walk along the north bank, a path still popular today.
The Duck Reach Power Station, commissioned in 1893 and operational by 1895, was the largest hydro-electric scheme of its era, lighting Launceston city.
A suspension bridge built in 1904 was washed away by floods in 1929 but later rebuilt.
The Trevallyn Dam, completed in 1955, led to the decommissioning of the power station.
In 1972, the world’s longest single-span chairlift was constructed, enhancing the reserve's tourist appeal.
Plans in the late 1970s for a tramway linking the nearby Penny Royal theme park to the gorge were never realized due to declining attendance.
Place Guide
First Basin
A deep natural pool formed by erosion at the meeting point of two geological faults, surrounded by bushland, cafés, and the chairlift and inclinator stations. It is central to many local myths about its depth and formation.
Cliff Grounds19th century
Victorian-era landscaped gardens on the northern side of the gorge featuring exotic plants, ferns, and free-roaming peacocks, providing a serene and picturesque environment for visitors.
Duck Reach Power Station1893
The historic hydro-electric power station commissioned in 1893, once the largest of its kind, now serving as an interpretive museum detailing the history of hydroelectricity in Tasmania.
King's Bridge and Toll House19th century
King's Bridge was a vital crossing over the South Esk River for nearly a century, with the original toll house still visible near the northern gorge entrance, marking the historic pedestrian entry point.
Cataract Gorge Chairlift1972
A record-holding chairlift built in 1972 with the longest single span of 308 meters, offering panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding landscapes.
Contact
Phone: (03) 6323 3085
