Some hikes feel like stepping into another world, and the Three Falls Circuit in Mount Field National Park is definitely one of them.
Within just a few kilometers, you get 3 epic waterfalls, ancient rainforests, and some of the tallest trees on Earth—all in an easy-to-follow loop.
With Mt Field National Park Campground as our base for a few nights, it was an absolute no-brainer to check it out, and wow, was it worth it!
How to Reach Three Falls Circuit Trail
The Three Falls Circuit starts at the Mount Field Visitor Centre, which is about 1 hour and 10 minutes (73 km) from Hobart via the Lyell Highway (A10), which transitions onto the B62 (Glenora Rd) in New Norfolk.
From there, clear signage will guide you along the Gordon River Road (B61) straight to Mount Field National Park.
Once you arrive at the Mount Field Visitor Centre, you’ll find parking, restrooms, and a café (open from 10am), as well as maps and information on the park’s hiking trails.
The trailhead for the Three Falls Circuit is conveniently located just behind the visitor centre, making it easy to access.
If you’re staying at Mount Field Campground, the start of the hike is just a short walk away, perfect for an early morning or late afternoon adventure.
Three Falls Circuit Trail Details
Here’s a quick breakdown of everything you need to know about this walk:
- Distance: 6.1 km loop
- Elevation Gain: 262m
- Duration: +2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy (with fair amount of steps)
- Starting Point: Mt Field Visitor Centre
This track packs a lot into a relatively short distance, taking you through ancient rainforests, past some of the tallest trees in the world, and alongside 3 picturesque waterfalls.
Trail to Russell Falls
Your adventure kicks off with an easy, picture-perfect stroll from the Mount Field Visitor Centre to Russell Falls—one of Tasmania’s most photographed waterfalls (and for good reason!).
This gentle 1.2 km return walk is mostly flat and well-maintained, with a Grade 1 rating, allowing wheelchair and stroller access (though some may require assistance).
The path winds through lush temperate rainforest, where towering tree ferns and moss-covered trunks create an almost prehistoric feel.
As you walk, you’ll hear the sound of water tumbling over the rockface before you even see it. And then—there it is—a breathtaking, multi-tiered cascade, framed by dense greenery.
The dedicated viewing platform provides the perfect spot to take in the falls from below, making this an easy but incredibly rewarding walk for everyone.
If you visit after dark, you’re in for a special treat—just to the left of the falls, there’s a dedicated platform where you can witness glow worms lighting up the forest in a magical bioluminescent display.
It’s a surreal experience, standing in the quiet of the rainforest, watching tiny blue-green lights twinkle in the darkness—a perfect way to end the day.
Horseshoe Falls – A Hidden Gem
From Russell Falls, the trail continues with a short but steep climb leading up to Horseshoe Falls, a smaller yet equally breathtaking cascade tucked away in the forest.
On the way up, you’ll pass a viewing platform that offers a fantastic perspective of the top of Russell Falls.
Horseshoe Falls feels more secluded, nestled among lush ferns and moss-covered rocks, thriving in the misty air. It’s the perfect place to pause, take a deep breath of crisp rainforest air, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
If you’re short on time and can’t complete the entire loop, make sure to at least visit Horseshoe Falls—it’s only a 15-minute walk from Russell Falls and absolutely worth it for the extra dose of waterfall magic.
Tall Trees Walk – Giants of the Forest
As you continue along the trail, you’ll come across the Tall Trees Walk, where you’ll be standing among some of the tallest trees on Earth—the mighty swamp gums (Eucalyptus regnans).
These towering giants can grow over 80 meters high, and standing beneath them is a truly humbling experience.
Looking up at their massive trunks disappearing into the canopy, you can’t help but feel tiny in comparison. These ancient giants provide a humbling experience, showcasing the grandeur of Tasmania’s old-growth forests.
Lady Barron Falls – A Peaceful Finale
The final waterfall on this circuit, Lady Barron Falls, is a graceful, multi-tiered cascade nestled deep within the forest.
The descent to the falls offers stunning glimpses of the surrounding landscape, and once you reach the viewing platform, you’ll be rewarded with a serene, picture-perfect view.
Unlike the more dramatic Russell Falls, Lady Barron Falls has a gentle, elegant flow, making it an ideal spot to sit for a moment and soak in the peaceful sounds of the water.
Trail Along Lady Barron Creek
After soaking up the beauty of Lady Barron Falls, the trail follows the serene Lady Barron Creek, guiding you through a peaceful stretch of rainforest.
The sounds of rushing water, rustling leaves, and distant bird calls create a soothing atmosphere as you make your way back toward the visitor centre.
Final Thoughts
After a few weeks of hiking across Tasmania, the Three Falls Circuit stood out as my favorite short hike.
It’s accessible, packed with diverse scenery, and effortlessly beautiful—offering everything from towering trees to cascading waterfalls.
The ease of access makes it perfect for anyone, and if you’re staying at Mount Field Campground, it’s right at your doorstep.
And don’t forget—come back to Russell Falls after dark for a magical glow worm display that adds a whole new layer of enchantment to this already incredible walk.
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