Dip Falls in northwest Tasmania is a cascade waterfall that flows over cubic-basalt formed rocks.
A little off the regular tourist routes, visiting the falls are most definitely worth the detour. They are 64kms from Burnie, about a 1.5 hour trip. I drove through gorgeous green farmland, watching cows graze and admiring the landscape before arriving at my destination.
This two tiered waterfall, has amazing rock formations that look like blocks have been stacked to form the drop. They are naturally formed black volcanic rocks.
A 207 step staircase has been created to allow people to walk down to the base of the falls and onto a viewing platform.
The waterfall is about 30 metres tall. It is difficult with an ordinary camera to capture the full beauty of this spectacular sight.
For those who do not wish to venture down to the base, there is a viewing platform at the top of the falls as well. The upper platform is wheelchair accessible. Each view is different and breathtaking. Water flows here all year round but the best viewing time is in winter when the water volume is greatest.
Toilets and BBQ facilities are available near the car park. The seating is situated in a great spot, overlooking the Dip River before it falls away.
While here, it is worth the 5 minute walk to the big tree, about a kilometre away. Walking through the rainforest is a reward in itself, and then you arrive at the enormous “big tree”. The circumference at the base is over 17m and this bulbous stringybark eucalyptus tree is over 60m high.
There are many big trees in Tasmania that have escaped being logged. The first mills opened in this area in 1884 and logging still occurs here. Always be on alert for logging trucks when travelling Tasmanian country roads.
The short walk to the big tree was beautiful. The man sized ferns and mossy covered trees are a fairy tale like environment.
It is the beauty of these hidden treasures that makes Tasmania worth visiting.
Happy Travels!
