Trail Fast Facts
Fern Tree to Waterworks Reserve is a 7km, grade 3 hike in Fern Tree, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 2.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Fern Tree to Waterworks Reserve hike spans 7km and is graded as a level 3 trail, nestled in Fern Tree, Tasmania. This trek typically takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete.
Embark on a well-graded downhill journey, enriched with historical landmarks highlighted by informative interpretation panels along the way. While dogs on leads are welcome from Fern Tree to Gentle Annie Falls, access beyond this point is restricted.
Starting from Fern Tree, the track descends with glimpses of historic stonework underfoot and two impeccably crafted stone aqueducts on the right. As you progress below Chimney Pot Hill Road, the forest transitions to a drier, more open environment. Emerging into a cleared area formerly known as McDermotts Farm, springtime reveals blooming daffodils where the homestead once stood. Descend with the aid of steps and handrails at Gentle Annie Falls (currently a dry waterfall) before reaching the Waterworks Reserve.
Return to the trailhead via the gentle Annie Falls track before following your initial route.
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 434 m
Min elevation: 176 m
Total climbing: 314 m
Total descent: -313 m
For more information on this trail, visit Greater Hobart Trails
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Take a bus or drive your car to the start of the track at Stephenson Place in Fern Tree.
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.
About the region
Fern Tree is an outlying suburb of Hobart. The name Fern Tree is adapted from the common name of the plant Dicksonia antarctica which grows abundantly in the area. Set beneath Mount Wellington, whose summit is at 1270 metres above sea level, Fern Tree is 13 km by road from Hobart's central business district.
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.
Suggest an edit
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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.