Hidden within the lush rainforests of Mt Field National Park, Russell Falls is a postcard-perfect slice of Tasmania’s wild beauty.
This easily accessible walk is your gateway to a world of towering ferns, ancient trees, and the iconic cascading tiers of Russell Falls itself.
Whether you’re craving a peaceful nature escape or adding a short hike to your Tasmanian road trip, this trail promises a serene and unforgettable experience.
Read on for everything you need to plan your visit to this enchanting natural wonder.
How to Get to Russell Falls
Russell Falls walk starts at the Mount Field Visitor Centre, which is about 1 hour and 10 minutes (73 km) from Hobart.
Take the A10 (Lyell Highway) heading northwest out of Hobart, then switch onto the B62 (Glenora Rd) in New Norfolk. From there, follow signs to Mount Field National Park along the Gordon River Road (B61).
Upon arrival, the Mount Field Visitor Centre serves as your gateway to this natural wonder. Here, you’ll find ample parking, toilets, and the Waterfalls Café and Gallery, which opens at 10 am, offering a selection of refreshments and local art.
Additionally, the centre provides park passes, maps and detailed information on the park’s various hiking trails.
Mt Field Campground
For those planning an extended stay, the nearby Mount Field Campground offers both powered and unpowered sites along with essential facilities such as hot showers, washing machines, and a kitchen with two BBQs for your convenience.
The facilities at Mount Field Campground are well-maintained and provide everything needed for a comfortable stay.
For those looking to explore the area, the campground offers easy access to some of Mount Field National Park’s most popular hiking trails, including the Three Falls Circuit or Tarn Shelf Circuit.
Russell Falls Trail Details
Here’s a quick breakdown of everything you need to know about this walk:
- Distance: 1.4 km return
- Elevation Gain: 37m
- Duration: 25 mins
- Difficulty: Easy
- Starting Point: Mt Field Visitor Centre
💡 TIP: To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Russell Falls, consider embarking on your walk early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This timing allows you to experience the falls bathed in soft, golden light filtering through the trees, and with fewer visitors around.
Russell Falls Walk
The walk to Russell Falls is a short and peaceful journey, offering a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of Tasmania’s Mount Field National Park.
Starting at the Mount Field Visitor Centre, this trail takes you through a dreamlike forest filled with towering swamp gums, large tree ferns, and moss-covered trunks, all set to the soothing sound of rushing water.
The path is fully sealed, flat, and wheelchair-accessible, making it an ideal option for families, photographers, or anyone eager to embrace nature without a strenuous effort.
In just 15 to 20 minutes of relaxed strolling, you’ll arrive at the viewing platform where Russell Falls unveils its twin cascades, gracefully tumbling over tiered rock ledges into a lush, fern-filled glade.
If you’re lucky enough to visit Russell Falls at night, you’ll be treated to a truly magical sight.
Just to the left of the falls, you’ll find a special platform where glow worms create a mesmerizing bioluminescent display, lighting up the surrounding forest.
It’s a surreal moment—standing in the stillness of the forest, watching the tiny lights twinkle in the dark, offering a peaceful and unforgettable way to close your day.
Insider Tips for Visiting Russell Falls
- Best time to visit: The falls flow year-round, but they’re especially impressive after rainfall when the cascades are at full force.
- Photographer’s dream: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with soft rays streaming through the rainforest canopy.
- Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for pademelons and other native wildlife along the trail — they’re often spotted in the cooler hours of the day.
- Glow worms: After dark, return to the trail to witness a magical glow worm display near the falls — a hidden gem for night visitors!
- Add a detour: For those with a little more time, venture beyond Russell Falls to see Horseshoe Falls, take a stroll through the Tall Trees Walk, or complete the entire ‘Three Falls Circuit’ to reach the beautiful Lady Barron Falls.
Final Thoughts
With its balance of accessibility and breathtaking scenery, the Russell Falls walk is an ideal choice for families, casual hikers, and those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Mount Field National Park without committing to a demanding hike.
Convenient and rewarding at every step, this trail is an unforgettable gem on any Tasmanian itinerary.
Found It Helpful? Pin It for Later!
