Bastion Cascades, Tasmania - An Adventure Deep into the Meander Forest

Nov 22, 2021
3 min read

Updated: Jan 28

Bastion Cascades, Tasmania - An Adventure Deep into the Meander Forest

Hidden deep within the lush rainforest of the Meander Forest Reserve, Bastion Cascades is a beautiful series of waterfalls and rock-lined cascades flowing along Bastion Creek. Surrounded by mossy cliffs, towering trees, and ancient forest, this walk feels wonderfully remote and adventurous — perfect for hikers looking to escape the crowds.

Located just 24 kilometres from Deloraine and nestled within the Great Western Tiers, the Meander Forest Reserve forms part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. While many visitors tackle the challenging hike to Meander Falls, Bastion Cascades offers a slightly less demanding — but still very rewarding — alternative.

Exploring the Meander Forest Reserve

Covering approximately 1,700 hectares, the Meander Forest Reserve is a haven of dense rainforest, rugged terrain, and dramatic waterways. The reserve is known for its network of walking tracks leading to impressive waterfalls, including Meander Falls, Split Rock Falls, Shower Cave Falls, and the lesser-visited Bastion Cascades.

This part of Tasmania feels wild and untamed, with fewer people on the tracks and a strong sense of immersion in nature.

Bastion Cascades Walk Overview

Distance: 4 kilometres return - Time: Approximately 4 hours - Grade: 3

The walk to Bastion Cascades is moderately challenging and best suited to confident walkers. While the distance is relatively short, the track is rough and uneven in places, with steady uphill sections and several obstacles along the way.

A True Rainforest Hike

From the trailhead, the walk climbs steadily through dense rainforest beneath towering myrtle trees, scented sassafras, and tree ferns. Fallen trees, slippery roots, and multiple creek crossings add to the adventure, making this feel like a true wilderness hike rather than a maintained tourist track.

Navigation relies on reflective markers, so it’s important to keep an eye out as the track winds uphill through the forest.

Wave Rock and Bastion Creek

One of the standout features along the walk is a massive rock overhang on Bastion Creek known as Wave Rock. Here, the trail narrows, and a small rock scramble is required to continue. A rope has been installed to assist with climbing over the rock. If you prefer, you can walk a little further along the creek and carefully climb around it instead.

From Wave Rock, a sign points the way to Bastion Cascades, which is around 10 minutes further on.

Reaching Bastion Cascades

Bastion Cascades is a series of flowing waterfalls and rock pools rather than a single large drop. Water spills gracefully over layered rock ledges, surrounded by steep, forested walls and lush greenery. It’s a peaceful and rewarding place to stop, rest, and take in the sounds of flowing water deep within the forest. After rain, the cascades are especially impressive, with Bastion Creek rushing strongly through the narrow gorge.

Return Options

Most walkers return the same way they came. However, for experienced hikers, Bastion Cascades can be included as part of a larger circuit incorporating Crowden’s Croft and Stone Hut. Circuit Time: Approximately 5 hours - Grade: 4

This longer circuit is steep, rough, and poorly marked in places, making it suitable only for confident and well-prepared walkers.

Getting to Bastion Cascades

To reach the Bastion Cascades car park: From Deloraine, take the A5, then the C167 toward Meander. Continue along Huntsman Road, then turn onto Meander Falls Road. Just past the bridge, continue straight onto Quarry Road and park at the Quarry car park. From the Quarry car park, walk along the old forestry road for approximately 1 kilometre until you reach the Stone Hut Circuit sign on the right. Continue past this sign to the end of the road to access the direct route to Bastion Cascades.

Why We Enjoyed the Hike to Bastion Cascades

Bastion Cascades is a fantastic choice for hikers seeking a more rugged and less-travelled waterfall walk in Tasmania. With dense rainforest, rock scrambles, creek crossings, and a beautiful cascade hidden deep in the forest, this walk delivers a true sense of adventure.

If you enjoy wild landscapes and don’t mind getting a little muddy along the way, Bastion Cascades is a rewarding addition to any Deloraine and Great Western Tiers itinerary.