Launceston's natural advantage, Cataract Gorge, is where the South Esk River, the dolerite cliffs and the bush feel a million miles from the city, even if it's only around 1km from the center. You can hike the gorge's riverside trails, ride the world's longest single-span chairlift and take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool.
Cataract Gorge's green heart is First Basin, where the gorge widens and the city comes to play. It's straddled at one end by the Alexandra Suspension Bridge, built in 1904, and home to the world's longest single-span chairlift (457m), the Gorge Scenic Chairlift (gorgechairlift.com.au; adult/child one way $15/10) which crosses the South Esk River – Tasmania's longest river – from the lawned southern banks to the Victorian-style garden on the northern banks.
Set within the grassed southern bank is First Basin Pool, a public swimming pool that's typically filled with water and open from November to March.
First Basin is connected to Kings Bridge, and ultimately the city center, by the Cataract Walk and Zig Zag Track. Both are around 1km in length, but are very different in nature. The Cataract Walk is the flatter, gentler option, running along the cliffs on the northern bank, providing good views of the river and the gorge's dolerite columns. The Zig Zag Track takes a more venturesome approach, with some steep pinches as it burrows into the gorge along the southern bank.
For a cultural (and natural) perspective on the gorge, join a guided walk with Wallaby Walkabout Tours (launcestonwalkingtours.com.au; $45), with First Nations guide Geoff McLean.
Eating options include a cafe and the Gorge Restaurant.
