Cataract Gorge Reserve - First Basin

Image: Cataract Gorge Launceston. Photo: Nick Hanson.

The main entrance leads to Launceston's beautiful Cataract Gorge, a recreation hub to swim, walk, run, dine, enjoy nature and simply relax. From the First Basin, the network of walking and hiking trails take visitors through the gardens, wilderness and to panoramic lookouts.

The inclinator provides access to the restaurant/cafe, shop, kiosk, First Basin lawns, swimming pools, toilets and shower facilities. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance for the Gorge Scenic Chairlift. 

Parking

Cataract Gorge Reserve, Basin Road, West Launceston

Gates are locked to the carpark at 10pm

  • $1.00 per hour
  • $6.00 per day
  • Monday to Sunday from 9am to 5pm

General bays: 154

Accessible bays: 3

Electric charging bays: 1

5-minute bays: 2 (fees still apply)

Motorcycle bays: 6

Oversized vehicle bays: 12

Free Tiger Bus

The Tiger Bus is a free transport service throughout the central city district, running 7 days a week*.

Cataract Gorge Run: This route will take you all the way to the iconic Cataract Gorge Basin, passing through Launceston's CBD along the way.

View the Tiger Bus timetable on the Metro website

The free Tiger Bus operates on all public holidays, excluding ANZAC Day, Good Friday, Recreation Day or Christmas Day.  All Tiger Bus services are operated by wheelchair-accessible vehicles. 

*The FREE Tiger Bus operates 7 days a week between December to April. 

First Basin Pool

The First Basin pool typically opens from November to March each year. These dates are subject to change in the event of inclement weather conditions. 

Lifeguard Supervision

Tasmanian School Holidays:

Lifeguards from the City of Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre ensure your safety by providing supervision at the First Basin Swimming Pool every day during Tasmanian school holidays.

Weekend supervision:

For the rest of the season (outside school holidays), lifeguards are on duty at the First Basin Swimming Pool on weekends from 11am to 4pm.

Please Note:

Weekend lifeguard supervision ends for the season after 4pm on Sunday, April 21st, 2024.

Location

72 Basin Rd, West Launceston 7250  View Map

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