Trail Fast Facts
Marriotts Falls is a 5km, grade 3 hike in the Marriotts Falls State Reserve, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 2 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
Marriott's Falls: A Hidden Gem near Mount Field National Park. This stunning 5km, grade 3 hike in the Marriotts Falls State Reserve, Tasmania, offers a chance to experience the beauty of the Mount Field National Park area without the crowds. While Russell Falls boasts similar grandeur, the additional 10-minute drive past Mount Field through Maydena to Marriotts Falls is well worth the escape from the throngs of tourists.
The trail is easy to follow throughout. The initial leg follows a dirt road for a short stretch before crossing a creek. You'll then enter a section of dense swamp gums (Eucalyptus regnans) that opens up into a picturesque grassy plain around the 1.5km mark. The final section leading to the falls takes you deeper into the rainforest. Here, the path becomes slightly more challenging with slippery sections to navigate. During wetter months, the powerful sound of the cascading water will guide you for the last 100 meters or so.
Prepare for the awe-inspiring sight of Marriotts Falls – the sheer volume of water and the surrounding scenery create a truly unforgettable experience. The base of the falls is accessible from either side, allowing you to explore from different angles.
Tips
- Keep an eye out for steep cliff faces and muddy sections, especially towards the end of the trail.
- During wetter months, the waterfall's force can be extreme, so exercise caution if venturing near the base.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 311 m
Min elevation: 213 m
Total climbing: 185 m
Total descent: -185 m
Getting there
Marriott's Falls is nestled near Mount Field National Park, roughly 85km northwest of Hobart. The drive is straightforward. Head northwest on Brooker Highway (A10) until you reach New Norfolk. From there, follow the scenic B61/B62 road, passing Mount Field National Park and the town of National Park. Look for the well-marked turnoff to Marriott's Falls on the right just after you cross the river outside Tyenna. The trailhead begins right after this turnoff.
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.
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.
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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.
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
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.
Weather
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.
1 Review on “Marriotts Falls Walk (5km)”
The extra drive from Russell Falls was worth it – escaped the crowds for this. Easy to follow trail, with a bit of rainforest challenge near the end (slippery rocks!). The falls themselves are incredible with stunning scenery.
Great hike. Did this one over Christmas 2022.