Water cascading down a multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush green foliage in Cataract Gorge, located in a serene forest setting.

Launceston to Derwent Bridge – Road Trip Through Tasmania’s Heartland

Ah, Launnie, it's always been the starting point for my hikes and road trips around Tassie. In this guide for the road trip from Launceston to Derwent Bridge, I’ll give you some amazing places to stop. 

Whether it be a peaceful picnic on the banks of a river, an exciting journey into a dark cave, or a hike to a glittering waterfall; there’s something in this Launceston to Derwent Bridge guide for everyone.

All of my stops I’m listing have a natural or outdoors element to them.  Tasmania is an outdoor enthusiasts mecca – however I will be including landmarks with accessible stops, ensuring inclusivity for everyone in this Launceston to Derwent guide.

I've hit the trails in many of the national parks in Tasmania, from the Overland Track to the remote Walls of Jerusalem and the vast Franklin-Gordon Rivers National Park.

So – Let’s go!

A clear blue lake, nestled within the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, is surrounded by rocky terrain and green trees, with a hilly landscape in the background under a bright blue sky.
Lake Adelaide, Walls of Jerusalem NP

This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our Disclosure Policy for more information.

Social Share Buttons

Driving from Launceston to Derwent Bridge:

When travelling from Launceston to Derwent Bridge, you have two main routes to choose from. The first option is to follow the A1 and then connect with the A10, known as the Lyell Highway, which is likely the route your SatNav will suggest. 

While this route is pretty, for some of the best natural landmarks north of Derwent Bridge, I recommend the following route:

Driving from Launceston to Derwent Bridge via Deloraine:

  • Route Description: From Launceston, take the Bass Highway (A1) towards Deloraine, then join the Highland Lakes Road (A5) in Deloraine. Continue the drive on the A5 through Tasmania's central highlands, then connect with the Lyell Highway (A10) to reach Derwent Bridge.
  • Distance and Travel Time: The journey covers approximately 200 kilometres and typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Launceston to Derwent Bridge  – Highlights!

Cataract Gorge Reserve
Marakoopa Cave and King Solomons Cave
Quamby Bluff

Liffey Falls
Walls of Jerusalem
Alum Cliffs/ Tulampanga Lookout
Pine Lake, Central Plateau
Great Lakes Lookout
Lake St Clair
Deloraine

Derwent Bridge is like a central hub – it's smack in the middle of Tasmania, making it the perfect reference point for any trip. Whether you're just passing through or using it as a base to explore, it's a spot on the Launceston to Derwent Bridge route you're likely to remember. 

Now join me as I take the A5 through the central highlands and I’ll show you some of my most favourite places along this magnificent route. I will also note any stops that are wheelchair accessible and list the amenities, so this special part of Tasmania is inclusive for all. 

For the record I’ll be using the Australian Walking Track Grading System, wherever tracks or walks are concerned. 

Grade 1 Easy Suitable for wheelchair users with assistance. 5km or less
Grade 2 Easy/Medium May have gentle hill sections or steps. 10km or less
Grade 3 Medium May have short steep sections, rough surfaces and steps. 20km or less. Suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
Grade 4 Hard May be long, rough and very steep. Signage may be limited.
Grade 5 Difficult Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep and unmarked. Navigation skills required.

RELATED: The Complete Guide to the Australian Walking Track Grading System

Cataract Gorge Walks

Easy Cataract Gorge Walk  – 2.5 km  – 30 minutes
Easy First Basin Loop  – 1.13 km  – 15 minutes
Suitable for Wheelchairs and Strollers

Medium Duck Reach Trail – 3.86 km  – 1.45 minutes
Hard Zig Zag and Cataract Circuit  – 3.22 km – 1 hour

A white and red arch bridge spans a green river with lush, green hills and houses in the background under a partly cloudy sky, reminiscent of the scenic route from Launceston to Derwent Bridge.
Cataract Gorge, Launceston

Located just 15 minutes walk (1.5 km) from Launceston's bustling centre, the Cataract Gorge walks present a remarkable slice of wilderness that contrasts sharply with urban life. This 65-million-year-old natural formation serves as a serene retreat, cradling remnants of ancient landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.

The Cataract Gorge walks are something you want you tick off the list before you leave for your Launceston to Derwent Bridge trip.  There are a number of options from wheelchair accessible to the heart pumping Zig Zag Trail.

The main pathway through the gorge is Cataract Walk, a sealed, wheelchair accessible 2.5 km return route. It starts at  Kings Bridge and the path follows the gorge all the way to the First Basin.  

You can still see the original toll house where pedestrians used to pay to enter the walk near King's Bridge on the northern edge of the gorge. The path along the South Esk River is bordered by towering cliffs, with rock climbers visible scaling the gorge walls further in. Information stands along the path offer insights into the flora and fauna of the Cataract Gorge.

If you want to elevate your heart rate, the Zig Zag Track, Reed Gully, and Snake Gully trails are all Grade 4 Cataract Gorge walks under 2 kms. Reed Gully and Snake Gully paths lead to the power station, while Zig Zag ascends to the summit on the southern side and overlooks the entire gorge.

A more moderate hike of the Cataract Gorge walks, is the Duck Reach Trail. Suitable for various fitness levels and covering 4 km, it leads to the historic Duck Reach Power Station and suspension bridge. 

These Guides for Day Hiking are Recommended:
What to Pack for a Day Hike
What to Wear When Hiking (Winter and Summer)
What Food to Take on a Day Hike

The First Basin is on the southern side of the gorge where there's a free swimming pool (only open during the summer), children’s playground, BBQs, toilets and change rooms, all surrounded by natural bushland. 

The shady northern side, known as the Cliff Grounds, is like a Victorian garden with expansive lawns, large shady trees, a rotunda, a pub with scenic views, and peacocks wandering nonchalantly alongside wallabies. The Cliff Grounds is a great place to relax and picnic after your Cataract Gorge walks.

People are riding pastel-colored chairlifts over a forested area, enjoying stunning views reminiscent of the serene alum cliffs. The background is filled with trees and greenery.
Cataract Gorge Chairlift

The Gorge Scenic Chairlift departs from this spot. You can get there using a free inclinator, which makes it easier for people with mobility challenges. The chairlift's central span is the world's longest at 308m. 

It's a charmingly slow, nostalgic ride, with a chair arriving every few minutes starting from 9 am, and closing times vary depending on the season. The views from the chairlift are really gorgeous, especially at sundown.

https://www.gorgechairlift.com.au/chairlift


Pack Light, Pack Right – Free Interactive Checklists

No More Overpacking. No More Forgetting Essentials.

Our free interactive packing lists help you pack methodically and remember everything. Add notes, quantities, save or print, and share with hiking partners so everyone knows what’s covered and what they need. Works on any device.

Available for multi-day wilderness camping, hut-to-hut hikes, and inn-to-inn walks, with new lists added frequently.

Marakoopa Cave and King Solomons Cave

Easy/Medium 

A well-lit cave formation with stalactites and stalagmites on the rocky walls and floor, reminiscent of the geological wonders seen during Cataract Gorge walks.
King Solomon's Cave

You’ll find two incredible caves, on the route between Launceston to Derwent Bridge. Marakoopa Cave and King Solomons Cave, at Mole Creek Karst National Park, just 40 minutes west of Deloraine. 

Marakoopa Cave is famous for its gorgeous glow worm display and the magnificent Great Cathedral cavern. While the drier King Solomons Cave has impressive shawls, stalactites, and stalagmites.

There are various tours available, like the King Solomons Cave tour and the Underground Rivers and Glow Worms Tour, suitable for all ages. The Great Cathedral and Glow Worms Tour requires a moderate level of fitness due to some ascending stairways. 

During the tours, you get to see sparkling crystals, reflective pools, stalactites, and stalagmites – it really is a truly unique underground experience. 

You might also like: The Essential Guide to Hiking in the Heat Safely

The caves maintain a cool 9 degrees Celsius temperature, so be sure to bring a jacket and wear sturdy walking shoes for navigating the stairs. Please note that the cave tours are not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments due to steps and uneven paths.

While you won’t need a Parks Pass to enter the caves, it is required to access the rest of the park. Croesus Reserve on the banks of the Mersey River is a gorgeous spot for a picnic, with several short trails meandering through the bush. At the reserve you’ll find wheelchair-accessible toilets, water, picnic shelters, and BBQs

If you’re a recreational caver, there are numerous other caves to explore, though caving experience is essential.

The Mole Creek Caves is a slight detour on your Launceston to Derwent Bridge road trip, but totally worth it and great for the whole family.

Bookings are essential and you can book up to 14 days in advance.  Bookings at:

Mole Creek Caves
330 Mayberry Rd,
Mole Creek TAS 7304
Phone: 03 6363 5182


If you know someone who’d benefit from this guide, spread the word!

Social Share Buttons

Quamby Bluff 

Hard  – Quamby Bluff Trail – 6.1 km – 2-3 hours. 503m elevation 

A person in a blue hat sits on a rocky ledge surrounded by dense greenery, overlooking the vast landscape of Quamby Bluff under a cloudy sky.
The view from Quamby Bluff

I first heard about Quamby Bluff when I was on the Overland Track. A guy called Matt who I shared a wooden tent platform with at the old Kia Ora Hut, told me about it.  A couple of months later on a separate trip, it was on my route and I decided to give Quamby Bluff a go.

Matt wasn’t wrong. – Even though he never said why it was good, Quamby Bluff still stands out today as a great day hike. Quamby Bluff is an imposing feature on the landscape, offering up some killer views for those willing to make the ascent. But that’s not all it's about.

The Quamby Bluff trail starts off with undulating tracks, followed by a section of scree  – which some hikers may find therapeutic (maybe I’m weird, but I do enjoy a bit of rock hopping), and then moves into a section of rainforest, before the final ascent of rock scrambling.

I don’t think I have ever experienced 4 totally different types of tracks in one short 6.1km section before!


Interested in

Hiking Safety?


We have a dedicated Hiking Health, Safety and Hygiene Facebook group!


The trail itself kicks off pretty straightforward with the undulating section, but then ramps up into a steep climb with the rock scrambling, so it really is suited to experienced hikers.

What's the payoff? Spectacular panoramic views that stretch across the Meander Valley and beyond. It's the kind of scenery that makes any sweat and effort well worth it. Plus, there's that unbeatable sense of achievement when you hit the top.

So, if you're the type who likes to mix a bit of grit with your scenic views, Quamby Bluff is a solid pick. Just remember to pack water, wear sturdy boots, and maybe bring a snack to enjoy with that view once you reach the summit.

Check out my Full Gear List for Overnight Hikes

Liffey Falls 

Easy/Medium  – Liffey Falls Upper Track 1.9 km  – 40 mins 
Easy/Medium  – Liffey Falls Lower Track 5.6 km  – 1.40 hours
Hard – Liffey River Track via Liffey Falls  – 21.1 km  – 7.15 Hours

A cascading waterfall flows through lush green forest, reminiscent of Liffey Falls near Quamby Bluff, descending over multiple rock ledges into a tranquil stream surrounded by moss-covered rocks and dense foliage.
Liffey Falls

I first visited Liffey Falls in 2015, when on a campervan tour around Tasmania.  We arrived in Tasmania hungry, and headed for a cafe.  Back then, I had no plan, we were going to take each day as it comes. 

We were ordering food in a cafe in Deloraine, when I noticed a framed photograph of a gorgeous waterfall on the wall. I remember, it was stunning, and my very first glimpse of the Tasmanian wilderness.

“Oh that's Liffey Falls,” the cafe owner exclaimed – “just down the road”.  And so off we went!

Liffey Falls are composed of 3 cascades in the middle of a magical mossy forest at the base of the Great Western Tiers. The falls, located in the Liffey Falls State Reserve, is one of Tasmania's most picturesque waterfalls. 

The area around Liffey Falls provides a couple of main walking tracks that cater to various fitness levels and allow visitors to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region. The tracks are not wheelchair accessible due to uneven surfaces and steps.

READ NEXT: Our Complete Guide to Toileting when Hiking

Liffey Falls Upper Walk: This track is relatively easy and accessible, starting from the upper car park. It's about a 1 km walk one way and takes you directly to the viewing platform for the upper falls, meandering through lush rainforest filled with tree ferns, myrtle, and sassafras trees.

Liffey Falls Track from the Lower Car Park: A bit more of a walk, starting at the lower car park, this walk extends the journey to about 2 km one way. The track allows you to experience the full beauty of the Liffey River as it cascades down through a series of picturesque falls until you reach the main Liffey Falls at the end of the track. 

Both of the Easy/Medium walks are well-maintained and feature interpretative signage about the area's ecology and geology. Picnic facilities are available at both the upper and lower car parks, and toilets are available in the upper carpark only.

Liffey Falls is just right off the A5, so a perfect little break on your Launceston to Derwent Bridge trip to get out and stretch your legs.


Pack Light, Pack Right – Free Interactive Checklists

No More Overpacking. No More Forgetting Essentials.

Our free interactive packing lists help you pack methodically and remember everything. Add notes, quantities, save or print, and share with hiking partners so everyone knows what’s covered and what they need. Works on any device.

Available for multi-day wilderness camping, hut-to-hut hikes, and inn-to-inn walks, with new lists added frequently.

Alum Cliffs/ Tulampanga Lookout

Medium  – 1.6 km – 50 minutes

Mountainous landscape with forest-covered hills and a river cutting through a deep valley. Cliff faces are visible in the foreground, and the scene is under a bright, hazy sky—a perfect setting for Cataract Gorge walks or exploring from Launceston to Derwent Bridge.
Alum Cliffs/ Tulampanga Lookout

This is a short hike through Alum Cliffs State Reserve, in north central Tasmania, not too far from the town of Deloraine. The 1.6 km one way trail, takes about 40-50 minutes to complete

You start and finish this out and back trail to Alum Cliffs from the corner of Mersey Hill Road. With a maximum elevation of 93m, it is suitable for all levels of fitness and ability.  

The Alum Cliffs trail itself is a relatively easy walk along well maintained roads out to an awesome lookout. From there, you get a breathtaking view of the Mersey River valley, with its towering cliffs and the river below. Enjoy the stunning views of the Alum Cliffs and Mersey river.

The ochre in the area has given Tulampanga, or Alum Cliffs, great significance for the Tasmanian Aboriginal community. As you explore the area, you'll discover outdoor furniture and sculptures, many of which are the work of talented local Aboriginal artists.

These Guides for Day Hiking are Recommended:
What to Pack for a Day Hike
What to Wear When Hiking (Winter and Summer)
What Food to Take on a Day Hike

Walls of Jerusalem National Park 

Hard – Mount Jerusalem Trail to The Temple and King Solomon’s Throne
(Day Hike) 20.3 km  – 9 hours.

A person in blue sits on the edge of a rocky cliff, overlooking a vast landscape of rugged mountains and green terrain under a blue sky, reminiscent of the breathtaking views along the Walls of Jerusalem hikes in Tasmania.
Looking out over Solomons Throne – Walls of Jerusalem NP

Walls of Jerusalem National Park is a remote, hiker-only access area known for its rugged wilderness. It’s a mecca for hikers wanting to overnight or a longer day hike. 

The park’s main playground, where all the good stuff is, is at high elevation so access is only available for those able to hike the steep and rough terrain to reach the park’s plateau at 1400 m.

To me, this park stands out as exceptionally beautiful, with its array of reflective tarns, jagged mountain ridges, and dense stands of pencil pine. It's interesting how each feature carries a biblical name—like Solomon's Throne or the Pools of Bethesda, adding a layer of character to the rugged landscape.

READ NEXT: A Complete Nutrition Guide for Multi Day Hikes

The Walls of Jerusalem’s stunning landscape of precipitous dolerite peaks, moraines and tarns are the result of glaciation. It's the mineral deposits which make the tarns glitter like jewels

The Walls of Jerusalem National Park also backs onto Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park and you can read about my epic 9 day hike between the two parks here

The Walls of Jerusalem has a multitude of hikes you can do, in as many days as you like.  There are two main camping areas in the park – Wild Dog Campsite and Dixon’s Hut (camping only, the historic hut is for emergency purposes only).  Wild camping is allowed and there are plenty of gorgeous places to pitch your tent.

A small, weathered wooden cabin with a slanted roof sits in a grassy clearing under a bright blue sky near Quamby Bluff, surrounded by trees and close to the rocky hillside.
Historic Dixon's Hut with Solomons Throne in the background.

For those wanting to day hike the out and back to the walls will take approx. 9 hours, so make sure you pack an emergency bivvy, or have a good idea where the emergency huts are located. 

Start your hike at the trailhead at the end of Mersey Forest Road. A Parks Pass and Bookings are essential.

What's in your Essential First Aid Kit?

Pine Lake, Central Plateau

Easy – Pine Lake Trail – 1km – 20 minutes
Suitable for Wheelchairs and Strollers

A calm body of water reflects autumn-colored trees and the rocky, hilly landscape of Quamby Bluff under a clear blue sky.
A copse of pencil pines on the shore of Pine Lake

Pine Lake in Central Plateau, Tasmania, offers a unique and accessible nature experience and its right on the road between Launceston to Derwent Bridge. 

The highlight here is the Pine Lake Walk, an easy return trail on a raised boardwalk, taking about 20 minutes to complete. 

The Pine Lake Trail is fully wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the ancient pines and alpine landscape. Picnic tables are available, however there are no BBQ facilities and you will need to pack out your rubbish with you.

Fishing is not permitted at Pine Lake. The lake and its surroundings are more about the scenic beauty and the conservation of the rare pencil pine trees that are several thousand years old. 

Toilets are located at the car park, at the start or end of your walk. Be sure to carry out what you bring in to help maintain the pristine condition of this special ecosystem. A Parks Pass is required.


Great Lakes Lookout

Easy – 5 minutes

A landscape of a calm blue lake surrounded by bushes and trees, with a clear blue sky and distant land formations in the background, reminiscent of the serene beauty found on Launceston to Derwent Bridge drives.
Great Lakes Lookout

The Great Lakes Lookout is another great stop on the Launceston to Derwent Bridge road, and provides expansive views of the largest freshwater lake system in Australia.

Accessible via Miena, a short trail leads you to the lookout, a 5-minute walk from the road. The track to the lookout itself is not wheelchair accessible.

Picnic tables are on-site, however, there are no BBQ facilities. Toilets, while not available at the lookout, can be found in the general vicinity at designated camping or day-use sites. 

If you’re into fishing, the Great Lakes are teeming with trout, both brown and rainbow. Boat ramps are situated at various locations around the lake. To fish in these lakes, you need to obtain a valid angling licence. 

These licences are mandatory for anyone aged 14 years and over wishing to fish with a rod, reel, and line in any inland water in Tasmania. You can purchase a fishing licence online through the Inland Fisheries Service or at various service providers throughout Tasmania. 

The fishing licence is separate from the parks pass, which is required for visiting the Great Lakes area.

There are a number of camping spots nearby if you’re planning to stop for the night on your Launceston to Derwent Bridge trip.  You can access a list of them here. There are also plenty of places to wild camp or free camp around the Great Lakes.  Just make sure that you practise Leave no Trace Principles, especially when toileting or washing.


If you know someone who’d benefit from this guide, spread the word!

Social Share Buttons

Lake St Clair – In the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Easy/Medium  – 45 mins-1.5 hours, 4.7 km circuit.
Watersmeet Track | Platypus Bay | Larmairremener tabelti – Pick one or do the full circuit
Medium  – Echo Point – 11km – 3-4 hours one way (Option – 20 mins by ferry (fee applies) and then walk one way to Cynthia Bay)
Medium: Pine Valley Hut  -9.5 km one way (from Narcissus Hut)
Options: Hard – The Labyrinth – 25.9 km 8.30 hours | Hard – The Acropolis  – 7.6 km  – 3 hours.

A serene lake at sunset with scattered rocks in the foreground, a docked white boat to the left, and forested hills in the background under a colorful sky reminiscent of the tranquil vistas along the never never trail.
Lake St Clair at Dusk

Lake St Clair, with the distinction of being Australia's deepest freshwater lake, also bears the Aboriginal name leeawuleena, translating to ‘sleeping water.’ On tranquil days, the serene stillness of the lake's surface echoes the meaning of its name. I’ve seen the lake in all 4 seasons, and it really is beautiful.

Lake St Clair is the final terminus for The Overland Track, and if you're at the Lake St Clair Lodge around lunchtime they will start coming through. You’ll see the hikers take the obligatory selfie at the Overland completion sign and have a celebratory burger and drink before the shuttles come in at 2 to pick them up. 

However, the Overland Track is not the only hiking available in this gorgeous part of Cradle Mountain -Lake St Clair National Park.  There are some great shorter hikes around Cynthia Bay, as well as some great 2-3 overnighters towards the end of the lake heading out to Pine Valley.

Lake St Clair also has a ferry service that takes you to the end of the lake to Narcissus Hut.  For those who just want to enjoy the lake, this is a really lovely 30 minute ride.  


Interested in

Hiking Safety?


We have a dedicated Hiking Health, Safety and Hygiene Facebook group!


The ferry is also a good way to walk the Echo Point Trail, where you can ferry one way and walk the rest. Be aware it is harder to get a seat in the summer months coming back down the lake as the hikers finishing the Overland Track do tend to book this leg up.

There are 3 easy shorter hikes close by Lake St Clair Lodge, which you can mix and match.  These are suitable for all abilities, although only a small section is wheelchair accessible.  

For a longer and harder hike, why not try my favourite this end of the lake – Pine Valley Hut with the addition of The Acropolis and The Labyrinth. Rock scrambling is required for the options, so suitable for experienced hikers only. If you are planning to hike out to Pine Valley Hut, it's important to take your sleep system (tent, sleeping bag and pad), as the hut may be full.

A wooden boardwalk leads through grassy terrain toward distant, tree-covered hills under a cloudy sky, reminiscent of the overland track via Lees Paddock in Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park.
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
A small boat sails on a calm lake surrounded by trees and hills under a partly cloudy sky, reminiscent of the serene landscapes seen on Walls of Jerusalem hikes in Tasmania.
The Cynthia Bay Ferry

Be aware of alpine weather changes and don’t forget to sign in the log book with your trip intention.  The log books are located outside the Lake St Clair visitor information centre which is adjacent to the Lake St Clair Lodge.  The friendly staff (including Rangers) are there to advise on any hikes in the area and can also issue a Parks Pass, as this is a requirement for Lake St Clair.

Accommodation in Lake St Clair

Lake St Clair Lodge is the sole accommodation provider situated right on the shores of Lake St Clair within the national park in Tasmania. There’s a variety of accommodation options from lakeside studios, to economical backpacker-style rooms and a camp ground.

It’s touted as having great food. Honestly, after eating dehydrated food everyday on an 8 day hike, the Lake St Clair burgers are pretty good.  But after that, I haven’t been that impressed, especially for the price.  There’s a nice seating area outside, so nice for lunch or a beer.  But in my opinion the food at the Derwent Bridge Wilderness Hotel, 5km down the road is so much better.  

Just my opinion 🙂

Deloraine 

On the route between Launceston to Derwent Bridge, Deloraine is a cool little town where you can stop for a bite to eat, grab some supplies, or even stay a couple of days. Set against the backdrop of the Great Western Tiers, it serves as a hub for local arts and a gateway to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Food-wise, Deloraine caters to a range of tastes and budgets.

A bridge spans over a calm river, surrounded by trees and lush green grass under a clear blue sky, inviting nature enthusiasts to explore the scenic Launceston to Derwent Bridge route.
Deloraine

Food Supplies in Deloraine

For food supplies, Deloraine has a local IGA supermarket, as well as a Woolies, which is open until 10pm, a butcher, and a fruit and veg shop where you can stock up.

On the first Saturday of each month, the Deloraine Market emerges, where you can get fresh produce, arts, crafts, and other goods from local vendors.

The Deloraine Art Scene 

If there’s one reason to stay a little longer in Deloraine, it's the arts scene. From the Yarns Artwork in Silk, or the annual Tasmanian Craft Fair, to the artsy cafe, Deloraine is a feast for the senses for someone like me (who sews!).

The Yarns Artwork in Silk Exhibition

Yarns Artwork in Silk is a huge piece of art made from silk and separated into four big panels, each about the size of a small room. This piece is the result of the hard work of more than 300 local artists who spent 10,000 hours and used 200 metres of silk they dyed themselves. The artists used all sorts of stitching and sewing skills to put Yarns together.

Yarns tells the local area's story, diving into its past, what the place looks like, and what makes the culture there special. It's got an audiovisual show that goes with it and you can see it all at the Great Western Tiers Visitor Centre in Deloraine.

It's also got some bragging rights—it won a Travellers Choice Award from TripAdvisor in 2020 because so many people have said a lot of good things about it.

The Tasmanian Craft Fair 

The Tasmanian Craft Fair in Deloraine is a yearly event held in November where local artisans showcase their handmade goods. It's a place where you can walk around, see a variety of crafts, and talk to the people who make them. If you're looking for something unique and locally made, this fair is where you can find it, and it's a chance to see the community's creativity firsthand.

Hiking and Camping Equipment in Deloraine 

Before you embark on your Launceston to Derwent Bridge road trip, Deloraine offers a couple of options for securing camping or hiking equipment. Whether you've just hopped off the plane or forgotten a crucial item, these local stores have you covered.

The first is TKA Sports & Outdoors, on Emu Bay Rd, which sells your general camping and hiking equipment.  Good for a gas pick-up or some dehydrated meals if you’ve just got off the plane.

The second is a smaller online store called Tier Gear. They have been making ultralight fabric equipment for some time, but it now appears they are changing their focus to re-selling.  

Tier Gear stock Evernew Japan, which is awesome ultralight titanium cookware. As locals, if you’re in a fix and forgot your cooker, these people will probably open the door to their workshop and sort you out.  Contact Tier Gear via their page at https://www.tiergear.com.au/

Wrapping Up the Wild Tasmanian Road Trip

On this road trip from Launceston to Derwent Bridge, we've uncovered a trail of Tassie's best treasures, in my opinion. From hikers’ playgrounds high in the central highlands to the awe-inspiring calm of ancient forests and gorges, it's clear Tasmania's outdoors is a patchwork quilt of wild and wonderful.

These spots I've shown you prove that whether you're up for a solid hike or happy with just a leisurely picnic, there's something for everyone. Plus, with the option of stops that cater to all mobilities, nobody's left behind in soaking up the natural wonderland.

Tasmania's not just for looking at through your car window; it's for stepping out into and breathing deep. It's for the moments when the cool forest air fills your chest or when the view from a hard-earned peak fills your sight. It's raw and it's real.

So what are you waiting for? Chuck your gear in the boot, set your playlist to something good, and hit the Launceston to Derwent Bridge road! 

Pack Light, Pack Right – Free Interactive Checklists

No More Overpacking. No More Forgetting Essentials.

Our free interactive packing lists help you pack methodically and remember everything. Add notes, quantities, save or print, and share with hiking partners so everyone knows what’s covered and what they need. Works on any device.

Available for multi-day wilderness camping, hut-to-hut hikes, and inn-to-inn walks, with new lists added frequently.

Safe Driving Guidelines for The Highland Lakes Road (A5) in Tasmania

Road Vigilance: The Highland Lakes Road (A5) presents its own set of challenges with winding routes and narrow stretches, especially where it slices through the rugged terrain.

Tasmanian Weather: Prior to setting out, it's important to keep up to date with the latest on road conditions, particularly in winter when frost, ice, and snow become hazards. Regular vehicle maintenance checks are important; ensure you're prepared with necessary supplies, including emergency provisions for the more isolated stretches of your trip.

Wildlife Awareness: Exercise caution when driving at dawn and dusk as wildlife is most active and unpredictable during these times, posing a significant risk on the roads. Your alertness can help prevent accidents and protect Tasmania's native animals.

While the scenic drive from Launceston to Derwent Bridge unveils some of Tasmania's most majestic landscapes, don't miss the chance to explore beyond, from the storied shores of the West Coast to the historic depths of Port Arthur, the lush vineyards of the Tamar Valley to the diverse offerings curated by Tourism Tasmania. Whether you're savouring fine dining in Hobart or embarking on a Discover Tasmania adventure, the island state is a treasure trove awaiting your exploration


If you know someone who’d benefit from this guide, spread the word!

Social Share Buttons

If You Enjoyed this Guide. – You May Also Like: