Cataract Gorge Reserve - First Basin

Image: Cataract Gorge Launceston. Photo: Nick Hanson.
Service interruption: The Cataract Gorge First Basin Inclinator is currently out of service.
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The main entrance leads to Launceston's beautiful Cataract Gorge, a recreation hub to swim, walk, run, dine, enjoy nature and simply relax. From the First Basin, the network of walking and hiking trails take visitors through the gardens, wilderness and to panoramic lookouts.

The inclinator provides access to the restaurant/cafe, shop, kiosk, First Basin lawns, swimming pools, toilets and shower facilities. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance for the Gorge Scenic Chairlift. 

Parking

Cataract Gorge Reserve, Basin Road, West Launceston

Gates are locked to the carpark at 10pm

  • $1.00 per hour
  • $6.00 per day
  • Monday to Sunday from 9am to 5pm

General bays: 154

Accessible bays: 3

Electric charging bays: 1

5-minute bays: 2 (fees still apply)

Motorcycle bays: 6

Oversized vehicle bays: 12

Cataract Gorge Reserve Inclinator

Cataract Gorge Reserve Inclinator

The City of Launceston is committed to ensuring everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Cataract Gorge Reserve.


Our First Basin inclinator provides safe and convenient access for people with wheelchairs or mobility challenges, navigating the Gorge’s steep terrain with ease.


About the Inclinator

Located at the First Basin, the inclinator is an enclosed cabin that operates on a toothed rail system, connecting three key levels of the Reserve:

  • Car Park Level: Direct access from the parking area.
  • First Basin Café Level: A convenient stop for dining and relaxation.
  • Picnic Ground Level: Access to the scenic picnic grounds, public toilets, children's playspace, and open spaces.

This accessibility service ensures visitors with mobility needs can comfortably explore the Reserve’s stunning landscapes and amenities.


How to Use the Inclinator

  • The inclinator is free to use and available during Reserve operating hours.
  • Follow signage at the First Basin Car Park to locate the inclinator entrance.
  • For safety, please follow all instructions provided on-site or contact our Customer Service Centre on 6323 3000 for assistance.


Service outages:

 

  • In the event of a mechanical breakdown, the inclinator may not be operational.
  • If the inclinator experiences a breakdown, the Council can provide special vehicle access into the reserve between 7am and 4.30pm Monday to Thursday, and between 7am and 4pm on Fridays. To arrange this, please contact our Customer Service Centre on 6323 3000.


First Basin Pool

The First Basin pool typically opens from November to March each year. These dates are subject to change in the event of inclement weather conditions. 

Lifeguard Supervision

Tasmanian School Holidays:

Lifeguards from the City of Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre ensure your safety by providing supervision at the First Basin Swimming Pool every day during Tasmanian school holidays.

Weekend supervision:

For the rest of the season (outside school holidays), lifeguards are on duty at the First Basin Swimming Pool on weekends from 11am to 4pm.

Please Note:

Weekend lifeguard supervision ends for the season after 4pm on Sunday, April 21st, 2024.

 

Location

72 Basin Rd, West Launceston 7250  View Map

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