Trail Fast Facts
Apsley River Waterhole and Gorge is a 5.6km, grade 3 hike in Douglas-Apsley National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 2.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
This walk crosses the Apsley River at the waterhole and then takes you away from the river on a walk through dry, open forest before descending back to the river at the Apsley Gorge.
Highlights
The Douglas and Apsley Rivers are home to an endangered native fish called the Australian Grayling, which grows to about 30 cm in length. They are dark greenish to greyish olive along the back, lighter and silvery on the sides with a whitish belly.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Tips
Park entry fees apply.
Toilets; bush camping area that is only accessible by walking track.
Uphill sections have stone steps that ease the grade.
Supervise children, slippery surfaces, flowing waters.
No pets or firearms. Bicycles may be wheeled to the camping area but not ridden on walking tracks.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 240 m
Min elevation: 83 m
Total climbing: 295 m
Total descent: -295 m
For more information about this hiking trail please visit Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Access from Tasman Highway (A3). 4km north of Bicheno turn into Rosedale Road and drive 7km to the Douglas-Apsley National Park. Final 6km is unsealed but suitable for 2WD vehicles and mountain bikes. Road is subject to flooding.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.