Virtual Cataract Gorge Walk for Treadmills

The Cataract Gorge follows the South Esk River immediately west of Launceston, with the river cutting through a dramatic gorge surrounded by bushland. This 102-minute walking video moves through the wider Cataract Gorge Reserve, passing riverside paths, forest tracks, gardens and rocky sections around First Basin.

The walking surface changes quite a bit from one section to another. There are sealed paths and gravel tracks, along with dirt, boardwalk and uneven rocky ground. Some parts are fairly easy, while others climb noticeably through the surrounding bush. The Zig Zag Track is one of the steeper sections, making a clear contrast with the easier Cataract Walk and First Basin Loop.

The gorge itself provides much of the scenery. Dolerite cliffs rise above the South Esk River, with rocky walls, flowing water and dense vegetation creating a mixture of open and enclosed sections. The Alexandra Suspension Bridge crosses the river near First Basin, while several lookouts provide views along the gorge.

Cliff Grounds has a different feel again, with Victorian-era gardens and a historic rotunda surrounded by bushland. Further along the reserve, the Duck Reach area adds another piece of Launceston history, with remnants of the old hydro-electric infrastructure beside the river.

Wildlife is also common around the quieter parts of the reserve. Wallabies and pademelons can be seen around the bushland, while peacocks are another familiar sight in some areas.

For the treadmill version, the pace is around 4 km/h with a 4% incline. That gives the 102-minute session a steady uphill feel, although the real walking network varies from relatively flat paths to much steeper sections. Dropping the incline to 2–3% would give an easier workout and probably better reflect the overall mix of terrain.

Cataract Gorge is also closely connected with Launceston's history. Duck Reach Power Station, completed in 1895, was Australia's first publicly owned hydro-electric power station. Combined with the river, dolerite cliffs, forest, gardens, suspension bridges and historic buildings, it gives the walk plenty of variety.

At 102 minutes, this is a long virtual walk with noticeably more variation than a simple riverside route. The scenery and terrain keep changing as the track moves through different parts of Cataract Gorge, from the quieter forest sections to the more developed areas around First Basin.

Trail Information

  • Location: Cataract Gorge Reserve, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia

  • Trail: Cataract Gorge Walk

  • Walk Duration: 102 Minutes

  • Terrain: Sealed paths, gravel tracks, dirt, boardwalk and uneven rocky sections with some steep climbs

  • Suggested Treadmill Incline: 4%

  • Walking Pace: Easy to Moderate