Guide Falls, Tasmania - An Easy Waterfall Experience in the North West

Oct 22, 2021
2 min read

Updated: Jan 28

Guide Falls, Tasmania - An Easy Waterfall Experience in the North West

Guide Falls is a beautiful and easily accessible waterfall tucked away in northwest Tasmania, just a short drive from Wynyard and Burnie. With a scenic riverside walk, picnic facilities, and multiple viewing platforms, it’s the perfect stop for a relaxed nature break or a short detour while exploring the region.

Here, the Guide River plunges approximately 25 metres over a striking basalt rock face, creating a graceful cascade that flows year-round and becomes especially impressive after rain.

An Easy Walk to the Falls

Access to Guide Falls is simple and well signposted. From the lower car park and picnic area, a gentle 300-metre path follows the peaceful Guide River through lush greenery to the base of the waterfall.

The walk is suitable for most fitness levels and takes just a few minutes, making it ideal for families and anyone wanting a low-effort but rewarding nature experience. As you approach the base of the falls, the sound of rushing water grows louder, building anticipation for the view ahead.

Viewing Platforms and Forest Views

At the base of Guide Falls, you can stand close enough to feel the cool mist and admire the textured basalt rock face behind the cascading water.

For a different perspective, a set of stairs leads to two upper viewing platforms, offering elevated views across the falls and the surrounding forest. These lookouts provide excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the height and setting of the waterfall from above.

Alternatively, visitors can park in the upper car park and descend the stairs to the base of the falls, creating a short but enjoyable loop.

Best Time to Visit

Guide Falls is lovely at any time of year, but it truly shines after periods of heavy rainfall. When the Guide River is flowing strongly, the waterfall transforms into a powerful, roaring spectacle, tumbling dramatically over the basalt cliffs.

Picnic and Facilities

The picnic area near the lower car park is a great spot to relax after your walk. Surrounded by forest and the gentle sounds of the river, it’s an ideal place to enjoy a snack or lunch while soaking up the peaceful surroundings.

Getting to Guide Falls

Guide Falls is approximately 18 kilometres from Burnie. From Burnie CBD, drive south along Mount Street toward Ridgley, then turn right onto the Ridgley Highway. Continue through the township of Ridgley, then turn right onto West Ridgley Road. After around 2.3 kilometres, you’ll see the sign for Guide Falls on the left, just before the bridge over the Guide River. From here, you can park in the lower car park and picnic area, or continue up the road to the upper parking area.

A Lovely Waterfall to Visit

Guide Falls is a perfect example of how rewarding a short, easy walk can be. With its scenic river path, accessible viewing platforms, and impressive cascade, it’s a lovely waterfall to visit for all ages. Whether you’re passing through northwest Tasmania or looking for a peaceful spot close to Burnie, Guide Falls is well worth the stop.