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Park · Launceston, Tasmania
Cataract Gorge
Gorge of the South Esk River about 1.5 km from Launceston city centre, with a pool, cable car, suspension bridge, trails and the old Duck Reach power station.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cataract Gorge
The Cataract Gorge is the canyon carved by the South Esk River shortly before it meets the Tamar River, about 1.5 km from Launceston city centre. Dolerite cliffs enclose a valley of woodland, lawns and water that can be reached on foot from the city.
At the First Basin, a wide pool in the river, there is a swimming pool open in the warm months, lawns with peacocks, a café and a restaurant. The cable car, opened in 1972, crosses the basin in a single span of about 308 metres, cited as one of the largest in the world.
The Alexandra suspension bridge and trails along both banks link the First Basin to Kings Bridge at the entrance to the gorge, and continue upriver to Duck Reach, where from 1895 one of the southern hemisphere’s first public hydroelectric power stations operated.
There is no entrance fee to the park. The cable car is paid; check the current price list.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 2 hours to half a day.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon. In summer, for the pool.
How to get there
On foot, about 1.5 km from Launceston centre via the Kings Bridge trail, or by car to the First Basin car park.
Tip
Walk along the north bank trail and return via the south bank: both give different perspectives of the gorge.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cataract Gorge
Is the Cataract Gorge far from Launceston centre?
No, it is about 1.5 km and can be reached on foot.
Is there an entrance fee for the Cataract Gorge?
There is no park entrance fee. The cable car is paid.
What to see at the Cataract Gorge?
The First Basin pool, the cable car, the suspension bridge, the trails and the Duck Reach power station.