About Dip Falls
Dip Falls is a tiered cascade waterfall on the Dip River in north-west Tasmania, located within the Dip River Forest Reserve near Mawbanna in the Circular Head local government area. The falls are notable for distinctive hexagonal and cubic basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity, over which water cascades. Surrounded by temperate rainforest with myrtle and ferns, the site includes viewing platforms and short walking tracks and is known for its geological features and forest setting.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a forested reserve setting with a two-tiered waterfall flowing over striking hexagonal basalt columns. There is an upper viewing platform overlooking the top of the falls and a short walking track with steps leading to a lower viewing area at the base. The surrounding area is cool temperate rainforest with tall eucalypts, myrtle, sassafras and ferns. Facilities include a car park, picnic area and interpretive signs. The site is primarily for sightseeing, photography and short nature walks.
Key highlights
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Two-tiered waterfall cascading over hexagonal and cubic basalt columns
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Upper and lower viewing platforms with different perspectives of the falls
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Located within Dip River Forest Reserve surrounded by temperate rainforest
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Short walking tracks through myrtle and fern forest
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Nearby Big Tree - one of Tasmania's largest eucalypts
History of Dip Falls
The basalt columns at Dip Falls were formed by volcanic activity approximately 25 million years ago when cooling lava contracted to form distinctive hexagonal columns. The surrounding Dip River Forest Reserve has a history of forestry use and is now protected for its geological and natural values.
Route
| By road | From Smithton, travel south via Mawbanna Road (C218) and then Dip Falls Road for approximately 36 km to the Dip River Forest Reserve car park. From Burnie, follow Bass Highway (A2) west to Smithton then south to Mawbanna. |
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