Philosopher Falls

Philosopher Falls is a forested waterfall near Waratah in north-west Tasmania, within the Waratah-Wynyard local government area. Accessed via a short rainforest walking track from Philosopher Falls Road, the falls drop over a rock face surrounded by temperate rainforest and moss-covered vegetation. Notable for its secluded setting, historic association with tin-mining pioneer James 'Philosopher' Smith, and as a popular short walk from the town of Waratah.

Visitors can expect a short return bushwalk through cool temperate rainforest to a viewing platform overlooking Philosopher Falls. The track passes through dense myrtle, sassafras and fern forest with moss-covered trees and a small creek. The waterfall cascades over a rock cliff into a forested gully. There are no shops or major developments at the site; the experience is a quiet nature walk and waterfall viewing from the designated platform.

Named after James 'Philosopher' Smith (1827-1922) who discovered tin at Mount Bischoff near Waratah in 1871, which led to the establishment of Waratah as a mining town. The falls lie near the historic mining district and are part of the Arthur River catchment associated with early exploration of north-west Tasmania.