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Meander Forest Reserve, Tasmania - Waterfalls & Wilderness in the Great Western Tiers
- Oct 3, 2021
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 28
Meander Forest Reserve, Tasmania - Waterfalls & Wilderness in the Great Western Tiers
Nestled into the rugged slopes of the Great Western Tiers, Meander Forest Reserve is one of northern Tasmania’s most spectacular wilderness areas. Just 24 kilometres from Deloraine, this 1,700-hectare reserve sits within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, offering a peaceful escape into ancient forests, rushing rivers and some of the state’s most impressive waterfalls.
Whether you’re here for a gentle forest wander or a full-day hike, Meander Forest Reserve delivers an unforgettable immersion into Tasmania’s wild heart.
Ancient Forests and Mountain Landscapes
The reserve is dominated by cool temperate rainforest and wet eucalypt forest, where towering eucalypts rise above ancient myrtle and sassafras trees. Ferns carpet the forest floor, moss clings to rocks, and streams weave quietly through the landscape.
Walking here feels timeless. Birdsong echoes through the trees, the air is cool and fresh, and with a little patience you may even spot native wildlife such as wallabies, birdlife, or a shy platypus along the Meander River.
A Waterfall Lover’s Playground
Meander Forest Reserve is best known for its waterfalls. While the hike to Meander Falls is the most famous, several other rewarding walks lead to stunning cascades, rocky chasms and hidden forest gems. Each track offers a slightly different experience, from challenging climbs to shaded rainforest strolls, making this reserve ideal for experienced bushwalkers and adventurous day hikers.
Walks & Hikes in Meander Forest Reserve
4 km return · Around 4 hours · Grade 3
The Bastion Cascades Track winds through dense rainforest and beneath massive rock formations before reaching a beautiful series of cascades. The track is steep and rocky in places, so take care, especially after rain. It’s a rewarding walk for those who enjoy quieter, less-travelled tracks.
3 km return · Around 3 hours · Grade 3
The Split Rock Track leads to two impressive waterfalls — Split Rock Falls and Shower Cave Falls. These falls are at their best during wetter months, but the walk itself is enjoyable year-round. The track includes some challenging uphill sections, but the payoff is well worth the effort, with dramatic rock formations and flowing water tucked deep within the forest.
Meander Falls
10 km return · Around 6 hours · Grade 3
The iconic Meander Falls walk is a full-day adventure and one of Tasmania’s most spectacular waterfall hikes. The track follows the Meander River before climbing steadily through wet forest to the base of the falls.
Here, the waterfall plunges dramatically in two tiers through a narrow opening in the Great Western Tiers. The track is rocky and can be muddy, with steep sections, but the final view is nothing short of breathtaking.
Chasm Falls
4 km return · Around 3.5 hours · Grade 4
Located along the Ironstone Track, Chasm Falls is formed as Smoko Creek carves its way through the landscape. Lower Chasm Falls and Middle Chasm Falls lie just downstream and are easily visited as part of the walk. This is a more challenging hike, suited to experienced walkers who enjoy rugged terrain and dramatic scenery.
Getting to Meander Forest Reserve
From Deloraine, take the C167 Road towards Meander and follow the signs to Meander Forest Reserve. The final few kilometres to the car park and trailheads are unsealed but suitable for 2WD vehicles.
Why Visit Meander Forest Reserve?
Meander Forest Reserve is a place where Tasmania truly shows off — ancient forests, powerful waterfalls and a sense of wilderness that feels untouched and timeless. Whether you’re tackling the challenging Meander Falls hike or exploring one of the lesser-known tracks, every walk here rewards you with natural beauty and solitude.
If you love waterfalls, rainforest walks and immersive wilderness experiences, Meander Forest Reserve is a must-visit destination in northern Tasmania.
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