Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore Lady Barron Falls, the gem of Mount Field National Park, Tasmania, on a 4.8km moderate (Grade 3) return hike. Immerse yourself in the beauty of tiered-cascade waterfall and marine Permian siltstone benches, ideally viewed when the creek is in full flow. Only a 2-hour commitment, this trail, named after Lady Clara Barron, offers an outstanding bushwalking experience and can be extended by continuing onto the Three Falls Circuit.

Length:

4.8km

Duration:

2 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 258m

Min elevation: 175m

Total Ascent: 235m

Start: Mount Field Visitors Centre

End: Mount Field Visitors Centre

Mount Field National Park

Tasmania

Nearby town: Westerway

From state capital: 73km

Latitude: -42.683397605951185

Longitude: 146.71522378921512

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Hike overview

Lady Barron Falls is a picturesque, tiered-cascade waterfall located on Lady Barron Creek in Mount Field National Park, Tasmania. With a height of approximately 8 metres, the falls feature gentle cascades near its base, best appreciated when the creek has a good flow of water. The Lady Barron Falls Walk is a 4.8-kilometre, grade 2 hike that typically takes around two hours to complete.

The falls descend over horizontal marine Permian siltstone benches, with vertical faces made of resistant sandstone layers. Named in honour of Lady Clara Barron, the wife of Sir Harry Barron, a former Governor of Tasmania, this waterfall is situated in the Central Highlands region of Tasmania.

The hike is an out-and-back route, allowing you to return via the same path. Alternatively, you can extend your walk by continuing onto the 6.5-kilometre Three Falls Circuit.

Tips

Some bushwalking experience is recommended, as the tracks may include short, steep hill sections, rough surfaces, and numerous steps.
Always supervise children, especially as tracks may be closed during strong winds or stormy weather due to the risk of falling trees or branches.
Ensure you have a valid Parks Pass for entry into Tasmania's national parks, and display it prominently in your vehicle.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning waterfalls and lush rainforest scenery.
Consider using hiking poles for added stability on uneven terrain.
Be aware that tracks may be closed in adverse weather conditions, so check the forecast and park alerts before setting out.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Lady Barron Falls Hike (4.8km)

Total distance: 4746 m
Max elevation: 258 m
Min elevation: 175 m
Total climbing: 235 m
Total descent: -235 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Mount Field National Park.

The Lady Barron Falls trailhead, within Mount Field National Park, approximately 70 kilometers northwest of Hobart. To reach the trailhead, start by taking the Brooker Highway (A10) north-west from Hobart, passing through the town of New Norfolk. Continue along the scenic route via Westerway on the B61/B62, enjoying the winding roads that lead to the small township of National Park, where the entrance to Mount Field National Park is situated. The drive from Hobart typically takes just over an hour. Once inside the park, the trailhead for the Lady Barron Falls can be found directly behind the Mount Field National Park Visitor Centre. When travelling in the area, especially during twilight or night, exercise caution as native wildlife frequently shares the roads.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Bicheno, Bothwell, Brighton, Bushy Park, Ellendale, Fentonbury, Glenora, Granton, Hamilton, Maydena, Molesworth, Mount Field, New Norfolk, Ouse, Tyenna, Westerway

About the region

Mount Field National Park, often referred to as "the park for all seasons," showcases a remarkable array of natural landscapes. Located in southern Tasmania, approximately 64 kilometers northwest of Hobart, this park is a convenient day trip from the state capital, offering a diverse range of walks, bushwalks, and hikes suitable for all visitors.

The journey through Mount Field begins with a short, leisurely walk to Russell Falls, one of Tasmania's most iconic waterfalls. The path leads you through towering tree ferns and giant eucalypts, providing a tranquil introduction to the park's natural beauty. As you venture further into the park, the landscape changes dramatically. The road to Lake Dobson offers access to longer day walks and, during winter, the snow-dusted slopes of the Mount Mawson ski field. The Tarn Shelf, particularly stunning in autumn, comes alive with the vibrant colours of the deciduous beech, or fagus, which turns the hillsides gold, orange, and red.

Mount Field National Park covers nearly 163 square kilometers and is renowned for its ecological diversity. The park features towering eucalypt forests, some of the tallest in the world, which give way to unique alpine vegetation at higher altitudes. Glaciated landscapes and alpine tarns provide a dramatic backdrop for bushwalks, while the lower elevations offer easily accessible walking tracks past magnificent waterfalls, including Russell Falls, which is perhaps the most photographed waterfall in Tasmania.

For those interested in more challenging hikes, Lake Dobson serves as the starting point for several longer trails. The Pandani Grove walk, which skirts the edge of Lake Dobson, offers a closer look at the unique flora of the region. The park also provides well-equipped picnic spots, a playground for children, and a visitor centre with a café, making it an ideal destination for family trips.

Whether you're in the mood for a casual walk, an adventurous hike, or simply a day spent exploring Tasmania's diverse landscapes, Mount Field National Park has something to offer. The park’s changing altitudes and weather conditions provide a dynamic experience, showcasing the distinct ecological zones that make Tasmania so unique. During winter, the park even offers opportunities for cross-country skiing on Mount Mawson's slopes.

Want to find the best trails in Mount Field National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Mount Field National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

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Lady Barron Falls Hike (4.8km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Lady Barron Falls Hike (4.8km)