Cataract Gorge
A dramatic river gorge a short walk from central Launceston — the First Basin, a long-span chairlift, a suspension bridge, riverside tracks, a pool and peacocks.
Cataract Gorge
Few cities have anything like it: a short stroll from central Launceston, the South Esk carves through Cataract Gorge to the tranquil First Basin. Here you’ll find a chairlift spanning the basin on a famously long single span, a graceful suspension bridge, riverside walking tracks, gardens with resident peacocks and a free seasonal swimming pool. It’s the city’s natural centrepiece, and it’s free to explore.
What to See & Do
The First Basin
A calm river basin with gardens, lawns and a free seasonal swimming pool.
The Chairlift
A scenic ride across the basin on a very long single span (paid).
Suspension Bridge
A graceful footbridge with views straight up the gorge.
Walks & Peacocks
Tracks along both banks and peacocks roaming the reserve.
Cataract Gorge Tips
- It’s a short walk or drive from the city centre
- Walking the tracks is free — the chairlift is paid
- Check current chairlift and pool hours before you go
- Great with children — see Launceston with kids
- Pair it with a guided gorge & city tour
Cataract Gorge — FAQ
What is Cataract Gorge in Launceston?
Cataract Gorge is a dramatic river gorge on the South Esk, only a short walk from the centre of Launceston. Its First Basin has a swimming pool, gardens, resident peacocks, a chairlift and a suspension bridge, with walking tracks along both sides.
How much does the Cataract Gorge chairlift cost?
The chairlift — which crosses the First Basin on a very long single span — is a paid ride, while walking the gorge and its tracks is free. Prices and operating hours change with the season, so check current details before you go.
Can you swim at Cataract Gorge?
Yes — there is a swimming pool beside the First Basin, open seasonally and free to use. The river basin itself can be cold and is not always suitable for swimming, so follow any signage on the day.
How long do you need at Cataract Gorge?
Allow one to two hours for a relaxed visit — enough to cross the suspension bridge, ride or watch the chairlift, see the peacocks and walk one of the shorter tracks. Keen walkers can easily fill a half day.
Is Cataract Gorge free?
The gorge, its walking tracks, the First Basin gardens and the seasonal pool are free. The chairlift is the main paid attraction. It is one of the best free things to do in Launceston — see more in our things to do guide.
Launceston, Planned Around You
Cataract Gorge in the heart of the city, the Tamar Valley’s cool-climate wine, lavender fields and Ben Lomond — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry