Mole Creek Karst National Park

Mole Creek Karst National Park is a subterranean wonderland in Tasmania's lush central north. This protected area safeguards an extraordinary network of caves, carved over millennia through limestone bedrock. It's a place where you can descend into the earth to witness delicate crystal formations, underground streams, and glow-worm-lit chambers. Above ground, the park features peaceful walking trails through cool temperate rainforest, offering a complete nature experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Marakoopa Cave – A must-visit for its spectacular glow-worm display and massive caverns. The guided tour takes you past reflective pools and towering stalagmites.
• King Solomons Cave – A more intimate cave with stunning helictites and calcite shawls. Its narrow passages and rich formations feel like a hidden treasure.
• Glow-worm viewing – Both caves offer guided tours that highlight these bioluminescent creatures, creating a magical starry effect in the darkness.
• Alum Cliffs – A short walk through tall eucalypt forest leads to a dramatic viewpoint over the Mersey River gorge. Great for spotting wedge-tailed eagles.
• Wildlife encounters – Keep an eye out for platypus in the park's creeks at dawn or dusk, and listen for the calls of Tasmanian devils at night.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a half-day exploring one cave and a short walk. To do both caves and a longer hike, allocate a full day. The caves are only accessible on guided tours (about 45–60 minutes each), so check tour times in advance. Combine with a picnic lunch at the park's grassy areas. If you're keen on photography, the soft cave lighting and forest dapples reward a slower pace.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Liffey Falls – A stunning four-tiered waterfall set in rainforest, about 30 minutes south. The easy walk leads to multiple viewing platforms.
• Great Western Tiers – This escarpment offers scenic drives and bushwalks, with spectacular views over the Midlands. The Meander River area is perfect for a quiet picnic.
• Deloraine – A charming historic town on the Meander River, known for its art galleries, antique shops, and the annual Tasmanian Craft Fair. Great for lunch or a coffee stop.
• Lauriston – A tiny settlement with a well-preserved Georgian church and a peaceful riverside reserve, ideal for a short detour.
• Cataract Gorge – A stunning natural gorge near Launceston, featuring a chairlift, swimming basin, and walking trails. Combine it with a visit to the city's historic precinct.

Please check official sources for current details.