Fossil Cliffs

Fossil Cliffs is a significant geological site on the north-west coast of Maria Island National Park near Darlington, Tasmania. The 100-metre-high cliffs expose Permian sedimentary rocks dating back around 290 million years, containing abundant marine fossils. Located within the Glamorgan-Spring Bay local government area, the site is accessible via walking tracks from Darlington and is noted for its scientific value and coastal scenery.

Visitors can expect a coastal walk from Darlington settlement to high, exposed limestone and siltstone cliffs overlooking the sea. The cliffs display clearly visible fossil shells, corals and bryozoans embedded in the rock face. The area is open and windswept with panoramic views to the Tasmanian mainland, interpretive signage explaining geology, and natural tracks leading along the cliff top. No swimming or facilities are at the cliffs themselves.

The cliffs expose Permian marine sediments deposited around 290-300 million years ago when Tasmania was part of Gondwana. The exceptionally fossiliferous strata have been studied since the 19th century and provide important evidence of ancient marine environments. The area lies adjacent to the Darlington Probation Station, a former convict settlement established in 1825.

The cliffs are valued for their scientific and educational significance as one of Australia's most important Permian fossil sites, contributing to understanding of geological history. The surrounding Maria Island landscape also holds significance for its Aboriginal heritage and later convict and industrial history.