THE CITY ACCORDING TO WATERWAY WANDERERS
Nestled where three major waterways converge, Launceston draws its essence from the plipatumila (South Esk River), laykila (North Esk River) and kanamaluka (Tamar Estuary). These rivers breathe life into the city, shaping its environment and culture.
kanamaluka/Tamar Estuary, Australia's longest navigable estuary, serves as a vibrant hub for biodiversity and has been the cultural heartland of the Tasmanian Aboriginal community for 40,000 years.
With deep channels, mudflats and rocky reefs, this ecosystem teems with diverse life, from mammals, reptiles, frogs and fish, to more than 50 bird species. Rare inhabitants include the green and golden bell frog, glossy grass skink and unique plant species.
Here, the threads of nature and innovation are intertwined, from the forest rain to hydroelectric power. In Launceston, you feel the connection — a tapestry of life.
The brown colour of the river stems from tannins in the water – a harmless by-product of fertile, peaty soil. It’s one of the reasons our whisky and fresh produce tastes so good.
YOUR LOCAL GUIDE
Pete’s kayaking journey began thanks to a school outdoor education course. He recommends newcomers try Hadspen to Trevallyn Dam on the South Esk for a mix of forest and farmland. For whitewater action, Evandale to Perth is your go-to and adrenaline-seekers will love North Esk's intermediate rapids from White Hills to Corra Linn.
The Cataract Gorge becomes a whitewater haven when Trevallyn Dam spills. The annual laykila/North Esk Paddle Festival in September is a true community event. Kayaking is best during the wet months, June to October. Kayakers connect with others through the Tamar Canoe Club or WikiRiver. Ready for your paddling adventure?
Riverside recreation
Stroll along the picturesque Seaport boardwalk or opt for a leisurely afternoon voyage up the estuary where you can experience views of Tamar Island and the Cataract Gorge, and obtain the most favourable perspective of the Batman Bridge.
Join a pedal-powered kayak tour through the confluence of three waterways. This guided journey provides a close, yet dry, river experience.
Have a field day
Explore ancient ferns, emerald gorges, waterfalls and gullies, and take in the gentle babble of rivers that feed the estuary.
Head to the leafy heart of Launnie and enjoy a swim or a quick dip in Cataract Gorge's waters. With grassy areas and a playground, it's a great spot for a family picnic.
Walk or cycle the Levee Banks trail, an engineering marvel designed to protect the city from inundation.
Picnic at Riverbend Park and set the kiddos loose on state-of-the-art waterfront play equipment and surrounding scenic bike trails.
Walk the historical Zig Zag Track that links the King’s Bridge to the First Basin, climbing high above Cataract Gorge Reserve for spectacular views.
Corra Linn, a gorge on the North Esk River, offers a stunning blend of towering cliffs, waterholes and sandy patches, set against a backdrop of rapids and recent rock falls. It is a haven for geologists, a challenge for rock climbers, and a picturesque spot for seasonal swimming.
Experience awe at Punchbowl Falls, home to a seasonal waterfall and stunning rock fissure that flows into Kings Meadows Rivulet.
Amble through Lilydale Falls on a family-friendly stroll between tall trees and lush mossy ferns to not one, but two picturesque waterfalls.
Go with the flow, listen for the city’s gentle undercurrents, take nourishment from nature, play by waterways, and let the water wash away your cares.
With kanamaluka/River Tamar as your guide, you’ll be in your element.
The earliest Western maps of the region show mudflats in a very similar shape to what you see today. We’re sentimental about sediment and the rich biodiversity it supports.
YOUR GUIDE TO THE CITY
Replenish by the water with sustainable, local produce from northern Tasmania's food bowl. Feast on plump oysters, fresh-plucked seafood or keep it simple with fish ‘n’ chips and a scoop of ice-cream. Carefully curated menus of seasonal fare and sublime wine lists by globally renowned chefs and sommeliers feature along the way.
Visit Launceston Central
NATURES CASCADING BEAUTY
Notley Fern Gorge, perched above the Tamar Valley, offers a pristine glimpse of Tasmanian rainforest. With a marked trail and a serene picnic area under towering trees, this wet sclerophyll forest is brimming with cascading creeks, flora and fauna.
Visit Discover Tasmania
On the outskirts of Launnie is a unique estuarine wetland ecosystem of mudflats, lagoons and islands. Tamar Island Wetlands presents a raised boardwalk which traverses the incredibly biodiverse environment via picnic spots and a bird hide.