Cataract Gorge

Cataract Gorge is a river gorge near Launceston where the South Esk River cuts through forested terrain, creating a deep canyon flanked by steep rocky walls. The valley extends across several kilometers and features walking paths, gardens, and areas of native forest interspersed throughout.

William Collins first documented this river valley in 1804 when it remained largely inaccessible to settlers. The construction of Kings Bridge in 1867 marked a turning point, allowing people to cross from one side to the other more easily.

The Palawa people, Tasmania's First Nations, have maintained their connection to this river valley for generations. Visitors walking through the gardens today experience a place where that heritage remains present in the landscape itself.

Access to the gorge is easiest via the marked walking trails such as the Cataract Walk and Zig Zag Track, which start near Kings Bridge and lead through the valley. The terrain varies from gentle paths to steeper sections, so sturdy footwear and allowing time to explore at a relaxed pace is recommended.

A single-span chairlift stretches across the gorge and ranks among the world's longest of its kind. This unusual feature allows visitors of varying abilities to experience the landscape from a completely different perspective without walking the full valley floor.