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Minnow Falls, Tasmania - A Wild Waterfalls Adventure near Mount Roland
- Nov 13, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 28
Minnow Falls, Tasmania - A Wild Waterfalls Adventure near Mount Roland
Minnow Falls is a spectacular yet lesser-known waterfall hidden in the foothills of Mount Roland, near the mural town of Sheffield in northwest Tasmania. Remote, rugged, and wonderfully rewarding, this dramatic waterfall system tumbles down a steep escarpment into a forested gully, offering an unforgettable experience for confident hikers.
Located approximately 10 kilometres south of Sheffield (around a 15-minute drive), Minnow Falls feels a world away from town, surrounded by native forest, mossy gullies, and the imposing slopes of Mount Roland.
A Towering Multi-Tiered Waterfall
Minnow Falls is not a single cascade but an impressive multi-tiered waterfall system on the eastern side of Mount Roland. The Minnow River plunges a total of 227 metres down the mountain in a series of dramatic drops, chutes, and cascades.
The waterfall has three main tiers:
Upper Falls: approximately 60 metres
Middle Falls: approximately 80 metres
Lower Falls: approximately 50 metres
After heavy rainfall, the falls are truly magnificent, with water thundering down the rock face and filling the gully with sound and mist. The new Minnow Falls track provides the best access to the lower and middle falls, which are the most visually impressive sections of the waterfall.
Minnow Falls Walking Track
Distance: 4 kilometres - Time: Around 3 hours return - Grade: 4 (challenging)
This is a demanding hike best suited to experienced walkers. Expect steep climbs, muddy sections, exposed rocks, and some scrambling.
The Walk to Minnow Falls
From the Bottom Road 1 car park, follow the logging road for approximately 200 metres, then take the signed track to the right, which leads down to the river. Here, you’ll cross the Minnow River via a log bridge, fitted with chicken wire for grip and a wire handline for support. Once across, the track continues along the riverbank through lush forest for about 600 metres, before directional arrows guide you to the right.
From this point, the walk becomes much more challenging. The track climbs steeply uphill for around one kilometre, narrowing into a rocky, often muddy trail. After rain, this section can be particularly slippery and slow going.
Lower Falls Lookout
Eventually, you’ll reach a junction where the old Minnow Falls track meets the new one. From here, a steep side path leads down to the lower falls viewing area. Large boulders provide a natural lookout where you can safely admire the lower tier of Minnow Falls and appreciate the sheer scale of water plunging through the gorge — a breathtaking reward for the effort.
Middle Falls & Cave Section
From the lower falls, you can continue up to the middle falls plateau, which takes approximately 15 minutes. Follow the orange track markers as the trail climbs sharply again. This section is very steep and rocky, with ropes installed to assist on the most difficult sections. You’ll then reach a ladder, which must be climbed to access a small cave.
👉 Important tip: Bring a head torch — the cave is dark.
Climb through the cave, and as you emerge, you’ll arrive at the middle falls plateau, where the waterfall plunges powerfully nearby. This viewpoint offers one of the most dramatic perspectives of Minnow Falls and is a highlight of the hike.
Upper Falls (Optional)
You can continue along the track for another 30 minutes to reach the upper falls, though there is no clear viewing area, and most walkers choose to turn back after the middle falls.
Important Notes Before You Go
This is a Grade 4 hike — not suitable for inexperienced walkers
The track can be very muddy and slippery after rain
Wear sturdy hiking boots with a good grip
Allow extra time and take care on steep sections
Avoid the track in poor weather or after heavy rainfall if conditions are unsafe
Directions to Minnow Falls
The walk begins at the Bottom Road 1 car park.
From Sheffield. Travel south-east along Main Street, then turn right onto Claude Road (C136) and follow for 4.3 kilometres. Turn left onto Paradise Road (C137) continue until Paradise Road becomes Union Bridge Road. After 1 kilometre, turn right onto Belstone Road. Follow the yellow Minnow Falls signs to the car park
Some sections of road are unsealed but are generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in good conditions.
Is Minnow Falls Worth It?
Minnow Falls is not an easy stroll — but for those willing to take on the challenge, it’s one of Tasmania’s most impressive and adventurous waterfall hikes. With towering cascades, rugged terrain, and a true sense of wilderness, this is a hike that delivers big rewards. If you love wild landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Minnow Falls is well worth the effort.
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