Strahan is a small town on Tassie’s rugged west coast. Just a short walk from Strahan’s waterfront is Peoples Park, with its lovely wrought iron gates. Inside the borders of Peoples Park is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. At the end of this walk is the final part of this proverbial Matyroshka doll: Hogarth Falls.
If you want to experience the wilds of the west coast but are limited by time or transportation, Hogarth Falls is a short, pram-friendly taster of the area. You’ll pass by tannin-stained creeks that meander through deep-green foliage. Take in the view of the rain-forest’s canopy above you and the sound of the birds. It is serene.
At the end of the track, a small but picturesque waterfall awaits you. Hogarth Falls is refreshingly unpretentious (and relatively untouched). It is surrounded by moss, ferns, and intricate rock formations. It is a lovely place to pause and revel in your surroundings. You can almost imagine the piners (timber cutters) of old and their families having a picnic on the rocks below the falls or perhaps members of the Toogee kinship group (Tasmanian Aboriginals) soaking in the raw beauty of their home. Tasmania is a wonderful place and Hogarth Falls is testament to this.
What to Bring
As always on the west coast, dress for rain. It rains a lot! Sturdy shoes are also a must as the track becomes muddy quite quickly. Even though the walk is relatively quick and easy (30 – 45 minutes), I recommend carrying water and basic first aid supplies. You’ll start and end of your journey in Peoples Park where there is a well-maintained amenities block.
Getting There
Strahan is about four hours’ drive from Launceston or about four and a half hours’ drive from Hobart. You only have to walk for 10 – 15 minutes from Strahan’s port area to find yourself in Peoples Park. If you choose to drive, there is ample free parking onsite.
Cost
All of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks are free, which is wonderful! Enjoy Tassie’s wilds but remember to do your part by taking your rubbish with you. Save your pennies for a once-in-a-lifetime experience like the Gordon River Cruise.
There are many things to do on the west coast. Read on for more ideas!