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Goblin Forest, Tasmania - A Fairytale Rainforest Walk in the Blue Tier Forest Reserve
- Oct 17, 2021
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 28
Goblin Forest, Tasmania - A Fairytale Rainforest Walk in the Blue Tier Forest Reserve
Tucked away in the Blue Tier Forest Reserve in northeast Tasmania, the Goblin Forest feels like something straight out of a storybook. Moss-covered rocks, lichen-carpeted ground, trickling creeks, and towering rainforest trees combine to create a magical atmosphere that invites you to slow down and look a little closer.
This short and accessible walk is one of the most leisurely experiences in the Blue Tier, making it perfect for families, photographers, and anyone wanting to enjoy Tasmania’s rainforest without tackling a long or difficult hike.
Goblin Forest Walk Overview
Distance: 400 metres return - Time: 20 minutes - Grade: 1
The Goblin Forest walk is one of the 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania and is an easy, wheelchair-friendly circuit that follows a combination of compacted paths and boardwalks. It’s suitable for prams and visitors of all ages, offering an immersive rainforest experience in a very short distance.
Walking Through a Regenerated Forest
As you wander along the track, information boards share the fascinating history of the Blue Tier. This area was once heavily mined for tin, and the forest you see today is the result of natural regeneration after widespread disturbance more than a century ago.
The younger trees of the Goblin Forest stand in contrast to Tasmania’s older, ancient rainforests, yet they create a lush and vibrant environment. It’s a wonderful example of nature’s resilience and ability to heal over time.
A Mossy, Lichen-Covered Wonderland
Stepping into the Goblin Forest feels like entering a fantasy world. Trees and boulders are draped in thick, emerald-green moss, while the forest floor appears dusted with snow. This “snow” is actually a stunning mosaic of coral lichens (Cladia retipora) and reindeer lichens (Cladina confusa), creating one of the most unique ground covers you’ll see in Tasmania.
Look closely, and you’ll spot tree ferns, brightly coloured mushrooms and fungi, and delicate freshwater creeks weaving through the forest. Tiny waterfalls and trickling streams add to the calm, almost enchanted feel of the walk.
A Walk for Everyone
One of the best things about the Goblin Forest walk is how accessible it is. The flat, well-formed track makes it ideal for families with young children, wheelchair users, and anyone wanting a gentle nature experience. Despite its short length, the walk is rich in detail and atmosphere, making it feel far longer than its 400 metres.
Getting There
From Launceston, take Highway A3 to Lottah Road, which winds through Goulds Country for around 10 kilometres. Lottah Road becomes Polmena Road, a gravel road that can be rough and potholed in places. After approximately 3 kilometres, you’ll reach the Polmena carpark, where the trailhead for the Goblin Forest walk is clearly marked. Take your time on this section of road, especially after rain.
Final Thoughts
The Goblin Forest walk may be short, but it leaves a lasting impression. With its mossy trees, lichen-covered ground, and peaceful rainforest setting, it’s one of Tasmania’s most charming and accessible nature walks.
Whether you’re exploring the Blue Tier for the first time or adding a gentle stop to a day of longer hikes, the Goblin Forest is a magical place well worth visiting.
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