The Bastion Cascades walk offers a remarkable journey through the heart of Tasmania’s Meander Conservation Area, which forms part of the World Heritage-listed Tasmanian Wilderness. This 7.2km return hike takes you deep into the temperate rainforest of the Great Western Tiers, where towering trees, ferns, and moss-covered rocks create an enchanting setting. Along the trail, you’ll encounter a series of striking rock formations, including ‘Wave Rock,’ ‘Crowden’s Croft,’ ‘Stone Hut,’ and ‘Arch Rock,’ each adding an element of mystery and beauty to the walk. The stunning cascades are a highlight, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.
The hike begins at the Quarry car park, located at an elevation of 580m. From here, follow Quarry Road for about 1km, passing the Stone Hut Track turn-off, until you reach the forest entrance. The track continues through a scenic clockwise loop, leading you past the cascades and Stone Hut. At the beginning of the trail, a recent rerouting due to fallen trees means you’ll need to follow ribbons and a worn path for a short section. After this, the track is well-defined and narrow, with regular red triangles marking your way. The rainforest here is typical of the Tiers, with giant Myrtle trees, fragrant Sassafras, ancient Tree Ferns, and tall gums. The area is alive with birdlife, creating a serene and vibrant atmosphere as you move through the forest.
As you continue along the trail, you’ll reach a short rope ascent and a massive rock overhang known as ‘Wave Rock.’ Here, you’ll need to climb the rope before heading west beneath the rock towards Bastion Cascades. The falls are a magnificent sight, offering a refreshing spot to pause and take in the surroundings. After visiting the cascades, you can choose to retrace your steps back to the trailhead or complete a loop by following the Bastion Cascades Circuit. Either way, the walk offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tasmania’s wilderness.
- Expect to navigate fallen trees along the path.
- Some scrambling is required, especially in steeper sections.
- Short rope ascents are needed to assist with certain parts of the trail.
Total distance: 7245 m
Max elevation: 822 m
Min elevation: 490 m
Total climbing: 359 m
Total descent: -359 m
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Bastion-Cascades-Hike.gpx
To reach the trailhead for the Bastion Cascades, take the A5 from Deloraine and continue along the C167 through to Meander. From there, follow Huntsman Road and then turn onto Meander Falls Road. After crossing the bridge, continue straight onto Quarry Road and park at the Quarry. Please note that there are no facilities at the trailhead itself. However, you can stop at Meander Bridge Café, where you can grab some supplies, coffee, or a delicious meal. The café also offers postal services and petrol. For restrooms, you’ll find facilities at Meander Hall and at the end of Meander Falls Road.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
The Meander Conservation Area, part of Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed landscapes, is a paradise for walkers and hikers. Covering approximately 1,700 hectares, it lies just 24 kilometres south of Deloraine in the stunning Great Western Tiers Mountain Range, about 230 kilometres from Hobart. This region is celebrated for its diverse bushwalks, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil natural beauty.
The hike to Meander Falls is the area’s standout trail, offering a rewarding challenge through dense forest and rocky terrain, culminating in spectacular views of the falls. Other trails, such as those leading to Bastion Cascades, Split Rock Falls, Shower Cave Falls, and Chasm Falls, showcase more of the area’s breathtaking scenery. These options range from easy walks to more demanding hikes, catering to both families and seasoned bushwalkers.
Reaching the Meander Conservation Area is straightforward. From Launceston, follow the Bass Highway to Deloraine, then take Highland Lakes Road for 10 kilometres to Meander. Continue along Huntsmans Road for 7 kilometres before joining Meander Falls Road. The final unsealed section to the Meander Forest Reserve parking area is suitable for most 2WD vehicles.
Whether you’re after a short walk or a challenging hike, this region offers unforgettable trails and scenery.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
