Apsley Gorge

Plunging dramatically through a landscape of rugged granite, Apsley Gorge is one of Tasmania’s most spectacular natural amphitheatres. Just a short drive from Bicheno on the island’s east coast, this deep chasm carved by the Apsley River offers a raw, untamed beauty that feels a world away from the coastal highway. The roar of water echoing off the sheer cliffs, the scent of eucalypts, and the sight of ancient rock formations make this a must-stop for anyone exploring Tasmania’s wild east.

Highlights & What to See

• Apsley Gorge Lookout: A short, easy walk leads to a viewing platform perched on the edge of the gorge. Peer down into the narrow, 100-metre-deep cleft where the river churns far below. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the coast.
• Waterfall and Rock Pools: After rain, a cascade tumbles into the gorge, and the river above forms inviting, smooth-rock pools perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. The contrast of dark granite and clear water is mesmerising.
• Granite Boulders and Bushwalking: Explore the boulder-strewn riverbed upstream, where sculpted granite forms natural slides and quiet corners. The Apsley River Walking Track follows the river, offering glimpses of platypus at dawn or dusk.
• Birdlife and Wildlife: Keep an eye out for white-bellied sea eagles soaring overhead, and listen for the whip-crack call of the grey shrike-thrush. Wallabies often graze along the edges of the gorge at twilight.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can appreciate the gorge in as little as an hour if you’re tight on time — walk to the lookout, snap some photos, and dip your toes in the river. But to truly soak it in, plan for half a day: bring a picnic, wander the river track, and find a quiet spot to listen to the water. The gorge is most atmospheric in the late afternoon when the low sun warms the granite walls.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bicheno: Ten minutes south, this charming fishing village offers the famous Bicheno Blowhole, penguin tours at dusk, and excellent seafood at the Lobster Shack.
• Freycinet National Park: A 40-minute drive north, home to the iconic Wineglass Bay. Combine a morning at Apsley Gorge with an afternoon hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout for a perfect east-coast day.
• Douglas-Apsley National Park: Adjacent to the gorge, this park protects dry eucalypt forest and offers longer walks, including the challenging 3-hour loop to Lee's Paddock and the Apsley River.
• St Marys: A 20-minute drive inland, this historic town is a gateway to the St Marys Pass and offers panoramic views of the coast from the Elephant Pass lookout.

Please check official sources for current details.