GORGE-OUS LOOP
Launceston, Tasmania
Difficulty
Level 1: Growing Wilder
DISTANCE
→ 10.4 km
ASCENT / DESCENT
↑ 415m ↓ 415m
ROUTE STYLE
Loop
An easy-going loop starting from the heart of Launceston, Tasmania’s second-largest city. Beginning at Royal Park, this route takes you through the iconic Cataract Gorge, past the historic old power station, across suspension bridges, and along scenic lookouts. You'll run by the river, cross multiple bridges, and might even spot some resident peacocks along the way!
This is an excellent loop whether you’re visiting Launceston for a short stay or a local looking to ease into trail running. With a mix of terrain, gentle climbs, and stunning views, it’s a fun and accessible option for trail runners of all levels.
An easy-going loop starting from the heart of Launceston, Tasmania’s second-largest city. Beginning at Royal Park, this route takes you through the iconic Cataract Gorge, past the historic old power station, across suspension bridges, and along scenic lookouts. You'll run by the river, cross multiple bridges, and might even spot some resident peacocks along the way!
This is an excellent loop whether you’re visiting Launceston for a short stay or a local looking to ease into trail running. With a mix of terrain, gentle climbs, and stunning views, it’s a fun and accessible option for trail runners of all levels.
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Begin at Royal Park, just outside of Launceston. Begin at the start of the bike path heading west towards The gorge. Continue along this path until you hit the road.
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Cross the road and locate the trail on the otherside of the road. Take this trail and continue up the steep staircase and along the trail until you hit the swimming pool and Gorge area.
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Run across to the trail on the other side of the grass area and continue following the trail which traverses along the edge of the Gorge. Run past this bridge and continue straight following along the Gorge as you go.
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You will eventually pass a look out and arrive at the swing bridge and the Duck reach power station. Cross over this bridge past the power station and head up the stairs on the other side.
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When you reach the top of the stairs take the trail to the left and follow towards Deadman’s hollow look out.
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Follow back along the trail heading east on the other side of the Gorge. Follow trails back down along the Gorge. You will then arrive back at the road you crossed at the start. Cross over the bridge and follow the paved cycle trail back to Royal Park
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Toilets Yes - At Royal Park and at Deadman's hollow look out.
Water Yes, available at Royal park
Parking Yes. At Royal Park.
Services Many services close by including many cafes to dine at afterwards.
Phone coverage Telstra, Optus & Vodaphone.Varied terrain from smooth asphalt, to mountain bike trails, fire trails and smooth flowing single track.
Expect this trail to take anywhere from 90 minutes up to 3 hours.
