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St Columba Falls, Tasmania - A Powerfall Waterfall in North East Tasmania
- Oct 17, 2021
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 28
St Columba Falls, Tasmania - A Powerfall Waterfall in North East Tasmania
St Columba Falls is one of Tasmania’s tallest permanent waterfalls, with the waters of the George River plunging an impressive 90 metres over rugged granite ledges into a lush rainforest gully below. It’s a spectacular sight at any time of year, but especially powerful and dramatic after good rainfall.
Located in the St Columba Falls State Reserve at Pyengana, around 25 kilometres west of St Helens, this beautiful waterfall is an easy and rewarding stop when exploring North East Tasmania.
St Columba Falls Walk
Distance: 1.2 kilometres return - Time: Approx. 30 minutes - Grade: 2
The walk to St Columba Falls is one of the 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania, making it a popular and accessible option for visitors of all ages.
The track begins at the car park, where you can already catch a glimpse of the waterfall through the trees. For the best views, continue down to the viewing platform at the base of the falls.
Rainforest Walk to the Viewing Platform
The well-formed track undulates gently as it descends through lush temperate rainforest, filled with towering tree ferns, myrtle and beech trees. Take your time along the way — the forest floor is often dotted with colourful fungi, especially in cooler months.
Just before reaching the viewing platform, you’ll cross a small bridge over the river, offering a lovely perspective of the water cascading over smooth rock ledges upstream. Not long after, the track passes beneath a low-growing tree — a reminder to watch your head, particularly if you’re tall.
Arrive at the Viewing Platform
The viewing platform sits directly opposite St Columba Falls and provides an excellent vantage point to appreciate the height, power and beauty of the cascade. The sound of rushing water, the cool mist in the air and the surrounding rainforest create a wonderfully immersive experience.
The return walk follows the same path and includes a moderate uphill section back to the car park.
Tips for Visiting St Columba Falls
Visit after rain: The waterfall is most impressive following good rainfall
Wear sturdy footwear: The track can be damp and slippery in places
Look for fungi: Autumn and winter are great times to spot colourful fungi along the track
Bring a camera: The viewing platform is perfect for photography
Allow extra time: Even though the walk is short, the rainforest is worth lingering in
Family-friendly: The walk is suitable for most ages, with supervision on steps and bridges
How to Get to St Columba Falls
St Columba Falls is located approximately 30 kilometres west of St Helens on Tasmania’s East Coast. From St Helens, turn off toward Pyengana and follow St Columba Falls Road to the car park at the end. The road is fully sealed but narrow and winding in places, so take your time.
Why Visit St Columba Falls?
Easy to access yet wonderfully dramatic, St Columba Falls is one of North East Tasmania’s must-see waterfalls. With its towering drop, rainforest setting and short scenic walk, it’s a perfect stop on a road trip through the region — and a great introduction to Tasmania’s love affair with waterfalls.
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