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Split Rock Falls & Shower Cave Falls, Tasmania - Hidden Waterfalls in the Meander Forest
- Nov 22, 2021
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 28
Split Rock Falls & Shower Cave Falls, Tasmania - Hidden Waterfalls in the Meander Forest
Tucked away in the lush rainforest of the Meander Forest Reserve, Split Rock Falls and Shower Cave Falls are two beautiful and lesser-visited waterfalls reached via the same adventurous walking track. Located near Deloraine and within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, this area showcases towering trees, mossy forest floors, dramatic rock formations, and tranquil mountain streams.
The Meander Forest Reserve covers around 1,700 hectares and sits within the Great Western Tiers mountain range, just 24 kilometres from Deloraine. While many visitors head straight for the challenging hike to Meander Falls, these two waterfalls offer a rewarding alternative for those seeking a quieter rainforest experience.
Exploring the Meander Forest Reserve
The Meander Forest Reserve is home to a network of excellent walking tracks that wind through ancient rainforest and past impressive natural features. In addition to Meander Falls, the reserve also includes scenic walks to Bastion Cascades, Chasm Falls, and the enchanting Split Rock and Shower Cave Falls.
This part of Tasmania feels wonderfully wild, with fewer crowds and a strong sense of immersion in nature.
Split Rock Falls & Shower Cave Falls Walk
Distance: 3 kilometres return - Time: Approximately 3 hours - Grade: 3
This walk begins at the Meander Falls car park, following the Split Rock Track. While the distance is relatively short, the track is uneven in places and includes some uphill sections, making it moderately challenging and best suited to walkers with reasonable fitness.
Suspension Bridge and Rainforest Ascent
After a short walk from the car park, you’ll cross the river via a narrow suspension bridge — one of the early highlights of the walk. Take note of the sign: only one person at a time should cross the bridge.
From here, the track climbs steadily uphill through a magical rainforest filled with mossy myrtle trees, towering tree ferns, and fragrant sassafras. Along the way, impressive sandstone rock formations rise beside the trail, adding to the dramatic feel of the forest.
The track can be tricky to follow at times, so keep an eye out for metal triangle markers and pink ribbons tied to trees, which help guide the way.
Split Rock - A Forest Landmark
Near the top of the climb, you’ll reach the striking feature known as Split Rock — two enormous boulders split apart with a tree growing between them. Its twisted roots spill out across the rocks below, making this one of the most photogenic spots on the walk.
⚠️ Important: Do not take the track that climbs up between the two rocks, as this leads toward Meander Falls. Instead, follow the track to the left of Split Rock.
Shower Cave Falls
The left-hand track passes beneath an impressive rock overhang before arriving at Shower Cave Falls. This delicate waterfall spills down the rock face beneath the overhang, creating a peaceful, sheltered setting.
After heavy rain, you may also spot a smaller seasonal waterfall along this section of track before reaching Shower Cave Falls — a lovely bonus and a great photo opportunity.
Split Rock Falls
After visiting Shower Cave Falls, continue uphill along the track to reach Split Rock Falls. This waterfall feels more open and dramatic, cascading through the forest and providing a beautiful contrast to the enclosed feel of Shower Cave Falls.
Together, these two waterfalls make the walk feel varied and rewarding, with each offering a different perspective of the surrounding rainforest.
Getting to the Meander Forest Reserve
From Deloraine, take the C167 Road toward Meander, then follow the signs to the Meander Forest Reserve. The final few kilometres to the parking area and trailhead are unsealed, but the road is generally in good condition and suitable for 2WD vehicles.
A Great Walk to Two Beautiful Waterfalls
Split Rock Falls and Shower Cave Falls are perfect for walkers wanting to explore a quieter corner of Tasmania’s rainforest. With suspension bridges, ancient trees, dramatic rock formations, and two very different waterfalls, this walk offers a true sense of adventure without the crowds.
If you enjoy hidden waterfalls and immersive forest walks, this track in the Meander Forest Reserve is well worth adding to your Tasmania itinerary.
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