Split Rock, also known as Cleft Rock
Introduction
The Split Rock trail is a fascinating and at times challenging 2-hour short walk located on the southern outskirts of Meander. Leaving from the Meander Falls car park, this rewarding trail incorporates rugged sandstone cliffs, dense rainforests, wild boulder fields and gorgeous waterfalls. This is a fantastic walk.
Getting There
View Google Map Directions |
From Launceston take the Bass Highway southwest through to Deloraine. As you pass through Deloraine take the Highland Lakes Road and continuing for 10km before reaching Meander. From Meander take Huntsmans Road 7km to meet Meander Falls Road. The Split Rock track begins from the Meander Falls carpark area 3km further |
The Trail
Right from the start, the Split Rock trail entertains hikers with a beautiful piece of public art hidden around the first bend of the track. From here a suspension bridge carries you over the Meander River and the trail enters the first section of beautiful rainforest. The trail is steep and occasionally difficult to follow due to the lush overhanging canopy of man ferns. Continuing uphill for 30 minutes, the track reaches Split Rock. In winter, the scenery here is spectacular with numerous waterfalls cascading over the mossy sandstone overhangs and the track itself. The split in Split Rock is easily missed but will form return route later in the hike.
The next hour of walking is nothing short of breathtaking, both literally and figuratively. From Split Rock, the trail passes under the immense rock overhangs and meets Shower Cave Falls, 200m above the start of the track. 10 minutes further, Split Rock Falls is found. Both falls are incredibly pretty, framed by vibrant green rainforest flora.
Once both falls have been found, the trail continues to zigzag steeply uphill, eventually reaching the twisted trees of the subalpine boulder fields above the sandstone overhangs. From here uphill for a short time before finding the Meander Falls track junction. To return to the carpark, the right fork is taken back towards Split Rock. Care should be taken on this rough track.
After 30 minutes of walking downhill, the roof of Split Rock is found and the trail descends through the split itself. Vast walls of ferns and mosses greet you as you find your way down. From here the trail meets the original track and returns to the carpark. Overall a highly rewarding and interesting walk.
Trail Map
Map for illustrative purposes only. Base map supplied by Land Information System Tasmania
Photos
The sub-alpine boulder field above Split Rock
The trail past Shower Falls, Split Rock track
The track below Split Rock Falls
