Meander Falls Hike (9km)

Meander Falls, nestled within Tasmania's Meander Conservation Area, is a 9 km grade 4 hike that offers a rewarding adventure through lush cool temperate rainforest. The trail ascends 480 metres to a breathtaking 130-metre waterfall cascading over two tiers, making it one of the state’s most spectacular natural features. Typically taking around 3.5 hours to complete, this hike combines rugged terrain, tranquil riverside paths, and dramatic views of the Great Western Tiers.

The journey begins at the Meander Falls car park, where the trail heads south-west alongside the tranquil Meander River. The first section provides a gentle introduction, allowing hikers to enjoy the river’s babbling currents before the ascent begins in earnest. As the path climbs, large rocks and exposed buttress roots form natural stairs, guiding you through a dense rainforest dominated by sassafras and myrtle trees. Light filters through the canopy, illuminating moss-covered ground and casting shifting patterns that evoke the timeless beauty of the forest.

After approximately 30 minutes, the trail crosses a sturdy bridge over Staggs Creek, and shortly after, the turnoff to Dicksons Track appears. Continuing upward, the forest thickens, enveloping you in its cool embrace. For the next hour, the track hugs the southern bank of the Meander River, with occasional access points to its edge offering peaceful spots to rest. The sound of rushing water mingles with birdsong, enhancing the sense of immersion in this pristine wilderness.

As the ascent progresses, the towering Great Western Tiers begin to reveal themselves. Meander Crag looms above the treeline to the west, while Bastion Bluff and the distant cascade of Meander Falls gradually come into view. These glimpses of the rugged escarpment provide a sense of anticipation, drawing you closer to the trail’s pinnacle.

Eventually, the incline eases, and the track flattens out, offering a gentler approach to the base of the falls. Along the way, the Split Rock turnoff is passed, followed by a small rest area framed by King Billy and Celery Top pines. From here, the scene unfolds dramatically: Meander Falls plunges down the rocky face, its twin tiers framed by the vibrant greenery of the surrounding forest. The pool at the base is accessible via a short descent, providing an ideal spot to pause and take in the falls’ power and beauty. For the more adventurous, a challenging scramble to the upper tier offers expansive views across the Meander Forest Reserve.

During winter, the hike takes on a different character, as snow and ice transform the landscape. If conditions align, the falls may partially freeze, with delicate icicles forming along the rocky ledges—a sight that enhances the trail’s already impressive appeal.

The return journey follows the same route, allowing you to revisit the trail’s highlights with a fresh perspective. Though rugged and occasionally steep, the Meander Falls hike rewards every step with its diverse landscapes and awe-inspiring scenery, making it a must-do for those seeking a memorable Tasmanian wilderness experience.