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Duck Reach Walk Cataract Gorge Launceston
- Wander * Explore * Discover
- Oct 29, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Duck Reach Walk Cataract Gorge - Launceston
The Duck Reach Walk at Cataract Gorge in Launceston is a scenic and rewarding short bushwalk just minutes from the city centre. Winding along the South Esk River through rugged gorge scenery, this moderately challenging track follows well-formed paths and stone steps to the historic Duck Reach Power Station, one of the world’s earliest hydro-electric plants, now a museum and interpretation centre. Along the way, walkers are treated to river views, leafy forest sections and the suspension bridge that spans the gorge—a perfect blend of natural beauty and local history that makes this Great Short Walk a favourite among visitors and locals alike.
The walk to Duck Reach starts at the Cataract Gorge Reserve. In this unique and natural gorge, you will find walking and hiking trails, the world's longest single-span chairlift, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and beautiful gardens.
Work on the Duck Reach Power Station commenced in 1855, but the turbines to power the new electric streetlights weren't operational until 1895.
Duck Reach Power Station was destroyed by floods in 1929 and was rebuilt the following year. It operated until 1956 and is now a museum and interpretation centre providing a history of the station.
The Duck Reach Walk is one of the 60 Great Short Walks.
The Walk - 6 kilometres Circuit - 1.5 Hours - Grade 3
The track starts at the Cataract Gorge First Basin and follows the undulating walking track along the ridge above First Basin, which has excellent views down the gorge.
There are some short uphill sections and approximately 190 stone steps along the way.
About halfway along the track, you will come to a cantilevered viewing platform; this is an excellent spot to rest and enjoy the beautiful views.
Crossing the suspension bridge just before the power station will give you more sensational views over the South Esk River.
Once you have crossed the suspension bridge, you will be at the Duck Reach Power Station. You can look around the free museum and interpretation centre, then walk back the way you came.
Directions to Cataract Gorge
To reach Cataract Gorge from Launceston, head southeast on National Highway 1 towards York Street (A3), turn right onto Frederick Street, and continue onto Hillside Crescent. Continue onto Brougham Street and turn onto Basin Road until you reach the car park.
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