Alum Cliffs, Tasmania - A Scenic Lookout Over the Meander River Gorge

Oct 3, 2021
3 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

Alum Cliffs, Tasmania - A Scenic Lookout Over the Meander River Gorge

Alum Cliffs is a striking natural lookout in northern Tasmania, located within the Alum Cliffs State Reserve near the village of Chudleigh. Rising high above the Meander River, the sheer dolerite cliffs offer sweeping views across the Meander Valley and the rugged escarpments of the Great Western Tiers.

Just 15 minutes’ drive from Deloraine, Alum Cliffs is an easy and rewarding stop for travellers exploring the region, combining a short bushwalk, impressive scenery and deep cultural significance.

The Alum Cliffs Walk

Distance: 1.6 kilometres return - Time: Approx. 45 minutes - Grade: 2

The Alum Cliffs walk is one of the 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania, making it a popular choice for visitors looking for a short yet memorable nature experience.

The track is well signposted from the car park and begins with a steep section of stairs, leading you up through the forest to a lovely open clearing. This initial climb is brief but worth taking at a relaxed pace.

Great Western Tiers Sculpture Trail

In the forest clearing, you’ll encounter an impressive, large wooden sculpture by artist David Jones, commissioned as part of the Great Western Tiers Sculpture Trail. The artwork celebrates the dramatic meeting point of Quamby Bluff, Alum Cliffs Gorge and Western Bluff, adding a creative and symbolic layer to the walk.

From here, the track continues gently uphill along a ridge through native forest toward the lookout.

The Lookout Views

At the end of the track, a fully enclosed lookout provides breathtaking views across the landscape. From here, you can see the towering Alum Cliffs, the rugged Gog Range and the Mersey River winding its way through the gorge below

It’s a fantastic vantage point for photography, quiet reflection, or simply taking in the scale of the Great Western Tiers.

Along the way, interpretive signs share information about the area’s Aboriginal heritage, flora and fauna, and a wooden bench about halfway along the track offers a peaceful spot to pause and enjoy the surroundings.

Cultural Significance

Alum Cliffs is a place of deep cultural importance. To local Aboriginal people, the cliffs are known as Tulampanga, a sacred place that has been significant for more than 10,000 years. From the lookout, you’ll see the Great Western Tiers, known as Kooparoona Niara, meaning Mountains of the Spirits. This area was traditionally a meeting place for three Aboriginal tribes, who gathered here for ceremony, celebration and connection over many millennia.

Safety Notes

While the walk is short, there are steep drop-offs and exposed sections along parts of the ridge. Stay on the marked track at all times and supervise children closely, especially near the lookout.

Getting There

From Deloraine, head north-west on Emu Bay Road. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto Mole Creek Road (B12) and follow it for approximately 15 kilometres.

Turn right onto Jones Street and continue for 1.4 kilometres, then turn right onto Mersey Hill Road. Follow this road for 3.7 kilometres to the car park. The final section of the road is unsealed but suitable for 2WD vehicles.

Why Visit Alum Cliffs?

Alum Cliffs offers one of the best short walks near Deloraine, combining dramatic scenery, artistic elements and powerful cultural history. Whether you’re exploring the Great Western Tiers, chasing waterfalls or enjoying a relaxed road trip through northern Tasmania, this lookout is a rewarding and memorable stop.