Zig Zag Track
Hike through lush bushland to stunning gorge views, spotting peacocks along the way. A natural escape minutes from Launceston.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Zig Zag Track
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through lush bushland to stunning gorge views, spotting peacocks along the way. A natural escape minutes from Launceston.
"A seriously beautiful (short but steep) walk. It took longer than usual because it’s easy to get swept up in all the beauty!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Good walking shoes are recommended, especially if it's rained. The path is well-maintained but can be slippery .
🚶♀️ Choose Your Route
The King's Bridge route is considered easier by some. You can create loops for up to 3 hours of hiking .
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 162 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cataract Gorge Reserve
Launceston, Tasmania
Explore this stunning natural ravine with walking trails, a chairlift, and peacocks!
The Zig Zag Track Itself
Cataract Gorge Reserve
A scenic and moderately challenging hike offering beautiful bushland and gorge views.
Peacocks at the Rotunda
Near the end of the Zig Zag Track
Spot the vibrant peacocks and peahens that roam freely near the Rotunda cafe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Gorge's Natural Beauty
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Good walking shoes are recommended, especially if it's rained. The path is well-maintained but can be slippery.
🚶♀️ Choose Your Route
The King's Bridge route is considered easier by some. You can create loops for up to 3 hours of hiking.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The natural beauty is breathtaking, so bring your camera or phone for stunning photos.
🐒 Spot Local Wildlife
Keep an eye out for local birds and the famous peacocks near the Rotunda.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Good walking shoes are recommended, especially if it's rained. The path is well-maintained but can be slippery.
🚶♀️ Choose Your Route
The King's Bridge route is considered easier by some. You can create loops for up to 3 hours of hiking.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The natural beauty is breathtaking, so bring your camera or phone for stunning photos.
🐒 Spot Local Wildlife
Keep an eye out for local birds and the famous peacocks near the Rotunda.
🚠 Consider the Chairlift
For a different perspective, take the scenic chairlift up to the top of the reserve.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Zig Zag Track's stunning natural beauty and accessibility, calling it a 'seriously beautiful' and 'good simple hike' for all ages. The convenience of being close to the city center, combined with the chance to see local wildlife like peacocks, makes it a highly recommended experience. Some note that it can be steep in parts, and recommend appropriate footwear.
"Amazing hikes super close to the city center.
Choose your own adventure and difficulty level.
You can get up to 3 hours of loop hikes starting from the Zig Zag trail.
Definitely recommend"
Anastasia G
"This is a good simple hike for anyone who is in average health. Take the King's Bridge route, I reckon it's easier than the other way round, if you want it easier. You don't need special hiking shoes for your trail, at least when it's not raining. It's got a really nice laid path.
The best part, at the end of the trail you get to Rotunda, restaurant and they have the most gorgeous looking peacocks and peahens I've ever seen. 😍
This is a fun hike, for all ages - I hope you'll enjoy it."
Ashwin Chandra
"A seriously beautiful (short but steep) walk. It took longer than usual because it’s easy to get swept up in all the beauty!"
Nicci Dimblon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Zig Zag Track is located within the Cataract Gorge Reserve, easily accessible from Launceston city center. You can walk to the reserve or drive and park nearby. Many visitors start their journey from the Kings Bridge side.
Yes, there is parking available at the Cataract Gorge Reserve. It can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is advisable.
While direct public transport to the trailhead might be limited, you can take a bus to Launceston city center and then enjoy a pleasant walk to the Cataract Gorge Reserve.
The Zig Zag Track itself is a walking trail and can be steep in parts. However, the Cataract Gorge Reserve offers other accessible areas and the chairlift provides an alternative way to experience the gorge.
Many visitors find starting from the Kings Bridge side of the Cataract Gorge to be a more manageable ascent for the Zig Zag Track.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking the Zig Zag Track and exploring most of the Cataract Gorge Reserve is free. There are charges for the chairlift and the swimming pool.
The Cataract Gorge Reserve, including the Zig Zag Track, is generally open from dawn till dusk. The chairlift and cafe have specific operating hours.
Entry to the Cataract Gorge Reserve and the Zig Zag Track is free for all visitors.
It's usually not necessary to book the chairlift in advance, but it's always a good idea to check the official Cataract Gorge website for any updates or special conditions.
While there aren't typically official guided tours for the Zig Zag Track itself, local information centers may offer walking tours of Launceston that include the gorge.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The time it takes can vary greatly depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to admire the views. A moderate pace can complete a loop in 1-2 hours, but you can extend it up to 3 hours.
You'll see beautiful native bushland, ferns, and enjoy panoramic views of the gorge and the Tamar River. Keep an eye out for local birdlife.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the Zig Zag Track and within the Cataract Gorge Reserve, provided they are kept on a leash.
Facilities include restrooms, a cafe/restaurant (The Rotunda), a swimming pool, and picnic areas. The chairlift is also a major attraction.
Yes, it's a great walk for families. Younger children might need assistance on steeper sections, but the overall experience is enjoyable for all ages.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints overlooking the gorge, the river, and the surrounding natural beauty. The peacocks near the Rotunda also make for unique photo opportunities.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, creating a magical atmosphere. Early mornings can also provide soft, diffused light and fewer people.
No, a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate to capture the stunning scenery. However, if you enjoy landscape photography, a DSLR or mirrorless camera will offer more control.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
Expect to capture sweeping gorge vistas, lush green foliage, the winding river, and potentially wildlife like birds and peacocks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit