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TasTrails.com

Duck Reach

Walked on July 17, 2022

Introduction

Located only moments from Launceston’s city centre, Duck Reach is an easy and rewarding 2-hour hike along South Esk River to the Duck Reach Power Station Museum. Constructed in 1895, the Duck Reach Power Station was one of the world’s first hydroelectric power stations.

Getting There


View Google Map Directions
From Launceston city centre, head south-west on Frederick Street and continue onto Hillside Crescent after 450m. Continue on Brougham Street for another 300m before turning right onto Basin Road. The carpark for the Duck Reach walk is located on the right-hand side of the road.

The Trail

Leaving from Cataract Gorge’s First Basin carpark, the track curves around the basin towards the eastern side of the South Esk River via a well-formed track. Scenic views across the basin are immediately presented as the trail makes its way past Alexandra Bridge above the South Esk River.

Passing beside Alexandra Bridge, the trail gets slightly rougher but is still easily managed as it gently climbs along the river’s edge. For the next 1km, the trail weaves in and out of pleasant forest sections before reaching Sentinel Lookout above the river. From here, panoramic views of the river are presented.

The trail continues for another kilometre before descending steeply to the suspension bridge across from Duck Reach Power Station Museum. Once at the power station, extensive signage and original equipment tell the story of the station’s operational history. Return via the same route.

Trail Map

Duck Reach Map
Map for illustrative purposes only. Base map supplied by Land Information System Tasmania

Photos

First Basin at Cataract Gorge, Launceston
First Basin at Cataract Gorge, Launceston
Forest section of Duck Reach Track
Forest section of Duck Reach Track
View of South Esk River from the lookout
View of South Esk River from the lookout
Bridge over South Esk River and Duck Reach Power Station
Duck Reach Power Station and the Bridge over South Esk River

View more Duck Reach photos

External Links

  • Launceston Cataract Gorge
  • Duck Reach Power Station – Wikipedia

Quick Search

Trail Location

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