Trail Fast Facts
Russell, Horseshoe & Lady Barron Falls is a 6.5km, grade 3 hike in Mount Field National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
Hike the Three Falls Circuit in Mount Field National Park. Enjoy on a scenic 6.5km (grade 3) hike through Mount Field National Park and discover the Three Falls Circuit – Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Lady Barron Falls.
Start at the Mount Field National Park Visitor Centre. The trail begins behind the center, with a junction offering two paths that converge at Russell Falls. Witness the grandeur of Russell Falls, Tasmania's most famous.
Head uphill from Russell Falls and take the junction to the right for Horseshoe Falls. Though smaller, it's a worthwhile detour. Return to the junction and head right over the bridge. The Tall Trees Walk awaits. Both routes converge, but consider taking the left option first. Take a right at the first junction, then left, and carefully cross the road to rejoin the main trail.
After roughly 1km, another junction appears. Take a right to visit Lady Barron Falls, a cascading beauty especially scenic after rainfall. Retrace your steps to the junction and head right. Follow this trail until you reach the road, and then follow it back to the Visitor Centre.
While Russell Falls is renowned, the Three Falls Circuit offers a deeper exploration of the park's beauty. Hike the circuit anticlockwise to enjoy a gradual climb to Horseshoe Falls, followed by the towering giants of the Tall Trees Walk and the cascading charm of Lady Barron Falls. The loop concludes with a long flight of wooden steps leading back to the Visitor Centre.
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.
Tips
- Bringing a camera along to capture the majesty of the waterfalls and surrounding rainforest.
- As you'll be exploring a National Park, make sure you have purchased and displayed a Parks Pass.
- Hiking poles can also be beneficial for added stability on uneven terrain.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 278 m
Min elevation: 176 m
Total climbing: 314 m
Total descent: -313 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Russell Falls and Horseshoe Falls lie nestled within Mount Field National Park, roughly 70 kilometers northwest of Hobart. To get there, take the Brooker Highway (A10) north-west from Hobart until you reach New Norfolk. From there, follow the scenic winding roads of B61/B62, keeping an eye out for the turn into Mount Field National Park on your right.
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
A World of Wonder Awaits in Mount Field National Park. As you wind your way through Mount Field National Park, Tasmania's diverse beauty unfolds before you. Nicknamed "the park for all seasons," it boasts a stunning transformation in elevation. From towering, world-record eucalypt forests to unique alpine vegetation, the landscape is a feast for the senses.
This World Heritage-listed wilderness area is also home to spectacular glaciated landscapes and cascading waterfalls. Start your adventure with a short walk to the breathtaking, three-tiered Russell Falls, considered one of Tasmania's most impressive. Immerse yourself in the towering tree ferns and giant eucalypts along the path.
Continue your exploration by traveling up the road towards Lake Dobson. Here, longer day walks and winter adventures await. Ski the snow-dusted slopes of Mount Mawson in the colder months, or witness a dazzling display of autumn colors as the fagus on the Tarn Shelf transform into a vibrant tapestry of gold, orange, and red.
Mount Field National Park offers something for everyone:
- Accessible walking tracks for visitors with disabilities
- Exciting activities and adventures
- Barbeque areas and picnic spots
- A cafe for refreshments
- Camping facilities
- Visitor center and lookouts
- Opportunities to connect with nature and wildlife
Similar trails nearby
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.Â
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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.
1 Review on “Russell, Horseshoe & Lady Barron Falls Hike (6.5km)”
Visited the iconic Russell Falls, then detoured to see the charming Horseshoe Falls. The towering giants of the Tall Trees Walk were awe-inspiring, and Lady Barron Falls was worth the extra walk, especially lush after some recent rain. An epic loop showcasing the park’s diversity – highly recommend.