Waterworks Reserve
A serene, leafy nature reserve with historic reservoirs, walking tracks, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful nature escape
Waterworks Reserve
Best Time
Peaceful nature escape
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, leafy nature reserve with historic reservoirs, walking tracks, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
"A beloved local spot for picnics and peaceful walks, offering beautiful nature close to the city."
Pack a Picnic Basket 🧺
Perfect for BBQs and leisurely lunches. Locals love it here for a relaxed meal.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Many well-signposted walking tracks await, some leading to stunning views.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 270 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tranquil Reservoirs
Upper and Lower Reservoirs
Capture serene reflections of kunanyi/Mt Wellington in these historic water sources.
Picnic & BBQ Spots
Various designated areas
Enjoy a leisurely meal amidst nature, often with visits from friendly Australian ravens.
Scenic Walking Tracks
Various trails
Explore well-signposted paths offering beautiful views and access to surrounding natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Plan Your Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic Basket 🧺
Perfect for BBQs and leisurely lunches. Locals love it here for a relaxed meal.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Many well-signposted walking tracks await, some leading to stunning views.
Check Track Status ⚠️
Some trails, like Gentle Annie Falls, may be closed for upgrades.
Local's Favorite Spot ❤️
Enjoy nature away from the main tourist crowds, just a short drive from the city.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic Basket 🧺
Perfect for BBQs and leisurely lunches. Locals love it here for a relaxed meal.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Many well-signposted walking tracks await, some leading to stunning views.
Check Track Status ⚠️
Some trails, like Gentle Annie Falls, may be closed for upgrades.
Local's Favorite Spot ❤️
Enjoy nature away from the main tourist crowds, just a short drive from the city.
Raven Encounters 🐦
Friendly Australian ravens are common visitors, especially around picnic areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Waterworks Reserve for its serene natural beauty, well-maintained walking tracks, and excellent picnic and BBQ facilities. It's highlighted as a peaceful local escape, perfect for enjoying nature close to the city, though some tracks may occasionally be closed for upgrades.
"I'm sure these picnic grounds are busy on a weekend, but on a winter lunchtime midweek it felt like we were the only picnickers. It was easy to get a BBQ with seating nearby and we were visited by the cutest Australian ravens. The park is currently being upgraded and it has improved every time we visit."
Amanda Thomas
"I went in a sunny winter day, quite peaceful and refreshing tracks, wonderful view! The Gentle Annie Falls track was closed, but I took the McDermotts fire trail to hike around Chimney Pot Hill and Rigdeway Reservoir. It was a wonderful day-hike!"
Noemi Otsuka
"Great trail, very well sign posted and easy to navigate with helpful information at regular intervals.
Start of trail is quite a walk from the city centre (came from the cruise port but very manageable with only a few hours) and the trail itself to the reservoir is not too steep, and very enjoyable.
Able to carry on up to the falls and even Mt Wellington Park."
Rebecca
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waterworks Reserve is conveniently located less than half an hour's drive from Hobart's city center. It's a popular spot for locals and easily accessible by car.
Yes, it's manageable to visit from the cruise port with a few hours to spare. The walk to the reservoir is not too steep.
While it's a bit of a walk from the city center, the trails themselves are enjoyable and well-signposted.
There are ample picnic areas with nearby seating and BBQ facilities, suggesting good parking availability, especially on weekdays.
Information on public transport access is limited, but driving is the most common and recommended method for reaching the reserve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Waterworks Reserve is generally a free public space, making it an accessible nature escape for everyone.
As a nature reserve, it's typically open from dawn till dusk, allowing for flexible visits.
There's no mention of booking requirements for general use. BBQ facilities with seating are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Yes, events like the Riddim Music Fest and Easter Monday gatherings have been held here, often free to attend. 
Absolutely! It's a perfect spot for a day trip, offering walking, picnicking, and a chance to enjoy nature close to the city.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Waterworks Reserve features well-signposted and easy-to-navigate walking tracks, with helpful information provided at intervals. You can hike around reservoirs or towards falls.
The reservoirs are primarily for water capture and not designated for swimming. Enjoy the scenic views from the banks instead.
Yes, the reserve is described as having playgrounds, making it a family-friendly destination for a day out.
Keep an eye out for local birdlife, including the common and friendly Australian ravens, especially around picnic areas.
The serene reservoirs, natural landscapes, and views of Mt Wellington offer beautiful photographic opportunities, especially in the morning light.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings offer serene light for capturing reflections in the reservoirs and the beauty of nature.
Focus on the tranquil reservoirs, the surrounding leafy landscapes, and views of kunanyi/Mt Wellington.
The areas around the upper reservoir provide excellent vantage points for capturing the landscape and reflections.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the natural beauty. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscape shots.
Yes, the Australian ravens and other birdlife can make for interesting wildlife photography subjects.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit