Discover Guide Falls, one of Tasmania’s most underrated waterfalls. With directions, what to expect, along with inspiring photography & useful tips.
When I set out on a mission to explore as many epic hikes and waterfalls in Tasmania as I could during my time on the island, I truly didn’t expect there to be just so many. I truly was, and still am blown away by just how many epic waterfalls there are in Tassie.
This one is a clear stand-out in the northern region. Guide Falls is a spectacular plunging waterfall located near Burnie. It’s also super-accessible and doesn’t require a long hike to get to making it a perfect picnic spot for families.
Below I’ll go into more details on how to get here, what to expect, and share my personal experience of exploring this incredible waterfall.
Where is Guide Falls?
Guide Falls is located in the "Guide Falls Reserve", just 17.1 km south of Burnie in Tasmania's north. The actual waterfall is found at the end of a very short return walk that is accessible by anyone. The upper level of the falls is wheelchair accessible.
Google Maps Pin: "Car Park of W Ridgly Road"
How to Get to Guide Falls
To get to Guide Falls, you'll need your own car as there are no public transport options available. The easiest way to navigate here is to plug in the Google Maps pin above, which will take you to the car park at the reserve.
Otherwise, for road directions, just follow the Ridgley Highway south from Burnie until you reach the town of Ridgley. Immediately after the town turn right onto W Ridgley Road and follow it until you see signs for the reserve.
The turn-off to the waterfall car park is on the left just before the bridge crossing Guide River.
If you don't have your own vehicle, then don't worry. You will still find loads of epic adventures and waterfalls in Tasmania. Below I've listed some of my must-do activities that you'll find in the region. Make sure to check them out.
My Experience at Guide Falls
Upon arriving at the Guide Falls Reserve, you'll find a large car parking space just by the Guide River.
Here, the local council has also put up a picnic area and a toilet block. The short track follows the Guide River upstream for about 200 metres before opening up to the main waterfall.
Although there isn't much information online, I'd estimate the height to be roughly 25 metres.
However, it's the width and sheer force of this single-plunging beauty that really makes it quite spectacular. While you might not see it from the base of the falls, there is a second drop a little further up from the main waterfall.
I was honestly pretty surprised at just how epic this waterfall was. The farmland surrounds didn't really match the ambiance of the powerful waterfall but after spending a good 30 minutes taking photos and relaxing by the falls, we had totally forgotten where we were.
Once you have admired the view from below, walk up the short flight of steps to get an awesome vantage point of the waterfall from above. There's also a car park up here and a large grassy field.
More Photos from My Trip to Guide Falls
I've spent a fair stint of time documenting and exploring the natural beauty of Tasmania. In the process, I've discovered loads of off-the-beaten-path spots and adventure ideas. Check out some of the other posts below to get started.
- 65 Epic Things to Do in Tasmania - My ultimate guide to exploring Tassie, complete with must-visit icons & hidden gems.
- Hikes in Tasmania - Discover 40+ of Tassie's best hiking trails, including short walks and long overnight treks!
- Waterfalls in Tasmania - A guide to 25+ of Tasmania's best waterfalls!
- Where to Stay in Tasmania - The ultimate accommodation guide to help your stops and places to stay.
- Best Tours & Experiences in Tasmania - This years' roundup of my favourite bookable tours & experiences across Tassie!
Otherwise, below are some more photos that we captured on a rainy day at Guide Falls near Burnie, Tasmania.
