Douglas Apsley National Park, located on Tasmania’s east coast, is home to several stunning waterfalls. The park features three main waterfalls: Heritage Falls, Leeaberra Falls, and Apsley Falls. These cascades offer visitors a chance to experience the raw beauty of Tasmania’s wilderness, with each waterfall presenting unique characteristics and hiking challenges. The park’s diverse landscape, from deep gorges to crystal-clear pools, provides an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
What are the main waterfalls in Douglas Apsley National Park?
Douglas Apsley National Park boasts three primary waterfalls:
- Heritage Falls: A 15-meter cascade plunging into a wide, clear green pool.
- Leeaberra Falls: Located just 100 meters downstream from Heritage Falls, featuring an 8-meter twisting drop.
- Apsley Falls: Part of the scenic waterfalls and cascades in the eastern section of the park.
How can visitors access Heritage Falls and Leeaberra Falls?
Accessing Heritage Falls and Leeaberra Falls requires a challenging hike:
- Trail Length: Approximately 6-7 hours return
- Difficulty Level: Grade 5 Hike
- Key Points:
- Involves rough, unformed tracks
- Extreme care required to reach the base of the falls
- Offers scenic views of surrounding forest and river gorges
What is the best way to experience Apsley Falls?
To experience Apsley Falls, visitors can take the Apsley River Waterhole and Gorge Walk:
- Trail Length: Nearly 6 km return (2.8 km one way)
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trail Highlights:
- Short, easy path to Apsley River waterhole
- Crossing the waterhole
- Ascending through open forest
- Descending into the gorge
- Views of high dolerite cliff walls and huge boulders
What are the best photography spots and tips for capturing Douglas Apsley National Park waterfalls?
Heritage Falls and Leeaberra Falls
- Optimal Lighting: Early morning or late afternoon
- Best Angles:
- Side-on views for Leeaberra Falls from the outcrop near Heritage Falls
- Capture Heritage Falls plunging into the green pool
- Equipment Recommendations:
- Wide-angle lenses
- Polarizing filter
Apsley Falls and Gorge
- Optimal Lighting: Early morning or late afternoon
- Best Angles: Various angles within the gorge, including from boulders and riverbed
- Equipment Recommendations:
- Wide-angle and telephoto lenses
- Tripod for slower shutter speeds
What amenities and facilities are available at Douglas Apsley National Park?
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Parking | Available near southern access point on Rosedale Road |
| Restrooms | Compost toilets near Apsley Waterhole walking trail |
| Picnic Areas | Near Apsley Waterhole and within gorge area |
| Accessibility | Apsley River Waterhole Loop Track suitable for families; challenging trails not wheelchair accessible |
Are there any safety considerations for visiting Douglas Apsley National Park waterfalls?
When visiting the waterfalls in Douglas Apsley National Park, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Wear appropriate hiking footwear with good grip
- Carry sufficient water and snacks
- Inform someone of your hiking plans
- Be cautious on slippery rocks near waterfalls
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Stick to marked trails and respect park regulations
What is the best time of year to visit Douglas Apsley National Park waterfalls?
The best time to visit Douglas Apsley National Park waterfalls depends on your preferences:
- Summer (December-February): Warmer temperatures, ideal for swimming in waterhole
- Autumn (March-May): Comfortable hiking weather, less crowded
- Winter (June-August): Highest water flow in waterfalls, but colder temperatures
- Spring (September-November): Wildflowers in bloom, moderate temperatures
How can visitors minimize their environmental impact while enjoying the waterfalls?
To preserve the natural beauty of Douglas Apsley National Park:
- Follow the ‘Leave No Trace’ principles
- Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion
- Pack out all trash, including biodegradable items
- Avoid disturbing wildlife or removing natural objects
- Use environmentally friendly sunscreen and insect repellent
- Respect fire bans and use designated fire pits only when allowed
By following these guidelines, visitors can help protect the park’s ecosystems and ensure future generations can enjoy its stunning waterfalls.
References:
1. Waterfalls – East Coast Tasmania
2. Douglas Apsley National Park Waterhole and Gorge Walk
3. Douglas-Apsley National Park | Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania