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Thursday 21 August 2014

Bluff River Gorge

Thursday 21st August 2014

Bluff River
Today was just going to be a short walk in the Bluff River Gorge and the intention was to walk down to the gorge and then along the eastern side of the river and the back along an old track. It all went to plan.
To reach the walk start, drive out on the A3 towards Buckland and then the C318 (Buckland Road) for about 11.6 kms to the walk start. It is about 600 metres past the Cutting Grass Road intersection and on the edge of a cleared paddock. There is a small parking area here.
Sandy access track
I set off at 0830 along a rough track that headed east towards the river. There was evidence of plenty of motor bike and foot traffic as it was quite sandy. It would be possible to drive down this track in a good 4WD. At the 1.2 km. mark I took the left track and carried on to 1.6 kms. where a foot track branched off and descended to the river. It was quite easy to follow and was well marked with tape. There was not a great flow in the river and it was easily forded.
Bluff River Crossing
Once across the river the track climbed up and then backtracked slightly before eventually reaching a height which was just under the top of the cliffs. There were great views of the weathered sandstone cliffs and I took some time checking them out.
The track under the sandstone cliffs
The track continued on basically following around the path of the river but well above it. In places there were good views across to the other side of the gorge.
Sandstone Cliffs

Sandstone Cliffs

View across to other side
I found a good spot in the sun to have a snack and then continued on. At the point where the track started heading down to the river, I carried on following the old track which eventually arrived at the northern river crossing. It was difficult trying to remain on track in this section, but it did not matter, as it was just the case of walking around the river bank. The river was easily crossed  and then I climbed up to find the old vehicle track and followed this back to the car.
This was a great short walk with nice scenery, and on a picture perfect day as well.
Distance: 8.3 kms.
Time: 3'22"
Ascent: 315 metres
Click here to download GPX track.
Sandstone feature

Sandstone Cliffs

Sandstone Cliffs

Sandstone Cliffs

Sandstone Cave

Sandstone Cave


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4 comments :

  1. This area looks amazing. I would love to hike here someday!!

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    1. Yes, all of Tasmania is simply stunning and a perfect place for hiking. I love it.

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  2. Did the walk with 3 others 23/9/2017 good walk track markings not clear in some places.It was my 3rd time will do again some fair size logs to get over in places.It took us 5.5 hrs return from the road stunning views

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    1. Yes, good walk Adrian and I have done it three times also.

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