There are many noteworthy hikes that one can do in Tasmania, but one I believe that truly stands out from the rest is the
Three Falls Circuit located in Mount Field National Park.
You are spoilt with three extraordinary waterfalls; one being one of Tassie's most famous, plus the journey to getting there is arguably even more stunning than the destinations themselves. Plus my favourite part is that this hike doesn't take an entire day, so you can truly enjoy it with your breath being taken away by the scenery, not the walk itself!
You will find the circuit in Mount Field National Park, which is around a 1 and a half hours drive from Hobart or a 3-hour drive from Launceston. Mount Field is known as "the park for all seasons" and if I can give you a tip before doing this circuit, it can get quite chilly (especially being under the tree canopies), so make sure you are comfortable but wear warm clothing when undertaking this circuit. Also, appropriate footwear will always make these walks so much easier with fewer falls. There are a few ways one can do this circuit. The below 'instructions' are just my favourite way to do so.
Russell Falls
The impressive and most famous waterfall of Tasmania, Russell Falls. Photo by Author.
Leaving from the Visitor Centre, it is quite a short and easy walk to Russell Falls. It can be done easily for those with strollers and is wheelchair accessible, however, please note that if continuing on the circuit, there are a lot of stairs after the waterfall, so accessibility is not so easy afterwards. It's only around 700 metres to get to what is one of Tasmania's most famous waterfalls and for very good reason. The viewing platform gives you a view of the impressive triple cascade and it is quite captivating and loud after lots of rainfall but is still beautiful when there isn't such a strong flow.
Enjoy the uniqueness of the Glow Worm Grotto in Mount Field NP.
If you do this walk in the afternoon, closer to nightfall, some glowworms can be seen with a handy rail to help guide you along the track. This would be a great idea for families with small children as the railing keeps you safe while enjoying one of the many smaller wonders of the track.
Horseshoe FallsAfter the visit to Russell, you begin the trek up towards Horseshoe Falls. A gentle reminder that this is probably the most challenging part (I find it so) of the circuit with a very steep set of stairs being the way to reaching the second Waterfall of the circuit. However, you will not be disappointed!
The gorgeous Horseshoe Falls on the Three Falls Circuit. Photo by Author.
Tall Trees Walk apart of the Three Falls Circuit
The track then continues through what is called the "Tall Trees Walk". On this walk, be sure to take some snaps (if you can fit it) of the specimens of Swamp Gums. The 'Eucalyptus Regnans' is the world's tallest flowering plant and are a magnificent sight to behold and will leave you feeling very small in comparison!
A comparison shot of my friend Floyd, standing besides one of the tallest flowering plants in the world! Photo by Author.
The last, but definitely not least, stop on this circuit is Lady Barron Falls. Like Russell and Horseshoe, these falls are composed of marine Permian Siltstone and the face of this waterfall is multi-layered and is especially incredible after rainfall.
The layers of Lady Barron Falls. Photo by Author.
In summary, the 'Three Falls Circuit' is definitely a must-do for visitors and locals of Tasmania. Not only is there the beauty of the 3 impressive waterfalls but the 'Tall Trees Walk' is a sight not to be missed. The circuit is 6km long and the recommendation for time to take is around 2 hours. Remember to take a water bottle and snacks if needed on the track - there is a shop in the Visitor Centre if you've forgotten to bring either. There are picnic facilities & toilets located at the Visitor Centre. Please remember the 'Leave No Trace' principle - take only photographs and leave only footprints.
