Philosopher Falls, nestled within the lush rainforest near Waratah, Tasmania, is a breathtaking multi-tiered waterfall that offers a short yet rewarding walk. This track provides a glimpse into the wild and untamed beauty of the Tarkine, one of Australia’s most remarkable temperate rainforests. The walk follows an old mining water race, a relic of Tasmania’s tin-mining history, leading to a stunning view of the falls.
The journey begins at a well-marked car park, located a few hundred metres up an unsealed road. The track itself is well-formed and easy to follow, with a wide gravel path meandering through dense forest. Towering myrtle beech and sassafras trees create a canopy overhead, while ferns and mosses carpet the ground, adding to the fairytale-like atmosphere. In autumn, the trail comes alive with vibrant fungi, their unusual shapes and colours dotting the forest floor like something from a storybook.
After crossing a purpose-built footbridge over the Arthur River, the path continues along the north-western side of the waterway, gradually immersing walkers deeper into the rainforest. The final stretch of the track brings you to a steel staircase that descends 210 steps to a viewing platform, offering a breathtaking vantage point over the cascading waterfall. While the original track that once led to the base of the falls is no longer maintained, the lookout still provides an unforgettable perspective on this natural wonder.
Named after James "Philosopher" Smith, the prospector whose 1871 discovery of tin at nearby Mt Bischoff transformed Tasmania’s fortunes, the falls stand as both a natural spectacle and a piece of the state’s rich mining heritage. Though the origins of Smith’s nickname remain uncertain, his legacy is etched into the landscape, making this walk a journey through both history and wilderness. Whether you visit for the history, the rainforest, or simply the tranquillity of the falls, Philosopher Falls is an experience that lingers long after you leave.
Images: Craig Doumouras and Peter Dohnt
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Total distance: 2553 m
Max elevation: 680 m
Min elevation: 594 m
Total climbing: 102 m
Total descent: -102 m
Getting to the trailhead: Waratah-Wynyard.
Reaching the Philosopher Falls trailhead is straightforward. From Waratah, take the B23 road towards Corinna, a scenic ten-kilometre drive that winds through Tasmania’s rugged wilderness. Keep an eye out for the clearly marked sign directing you to Philosopher Falls. Turn onto a short unsealed road, where the car park is located approximately 400 to 500 metres in. The track begins from here, leading you into the heart of the rainforest and towards one of Tasmania’s most captivating waterfalls.
Closest towns to this walk: Burnie, Devonport, Latrobe, Rosebery, Somerset, Tullah, Ulverstone, Waratah, Wynyard, Zeehan
Philosopher Falls is located within the Tarkine region, a vast and ecologically significant wilderness in north-west Tasmania. While it is not part of an official national park, it lies within a protected area of temperate rainforest that forms part of the greater Tarkine, which is recognised for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. The Tarkine is home to the largest temperate rainforest in Australia and one of the largest remaining tracts in the world, providing a habitat for many rare and endemic species, including the Tasmanian devil and giant freshwater crayfish.
The rainforest surrounding Philosopher Falls is characterised by towering myrtle beech, sassafras, and leatherwood trees, with a dense understorey of ferns and moss-covered logs. This cool, damp environment supports a remarkable array of fungi, making the region especially striking in autumn. The area’s waterways, including the Arthur River, play a crucial role in the ecosystem, sustaining a network of forests, wetlands, and grasslands.
Beyond its natural significance, the Tarkine also holds deep cultural importance for the Tasmanian Aboriginal people, who have lived in and cared for this land for tens of thousands of years. Evidence of their long history remains in the form of rock carvings, middens, and stone tools found throughout the region. Today, efforts continue to preserve the Tarkine’s unique landscapes, balancing conservation with its historical ties to mining and forestry.
While not as well-known as some of Tasmania’s national parks, the Tarkine remains one of the state’s most remarkable wilderness a
Looking for more walks in or near Waratah-Wynyard? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Mount Farrell Regional Reserve
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
/Philosopher%20Falls%20Walk.jpg "Philosopher Falls Walk (2km)")
/Philosopher-Falls.jpg "Philosopher Falls Walk (2km)")
