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Take in the spectacular features of Cataract Gorge from this single-span chairlift. View the South Esk River in a serene or turbulent mood after a flood as well as tree rhododendrons and fern glades. It takes about ten minutes to take the ride across Cataract Gorge and First Basin. Top speed is a sedate one metre per second, but usually, the chairlift runs slower than that to afford passengers a longer ride.
It is about 457 metres (1462 feet) from station to station, with a central span between two pylons of 308 metres (985 feet), believed to be the longest single span of any chairlift in the world. Since its opening in 1972, the chairlift has established a 100 per cent safety record.
Be sure to also wander the grounds below the chairlift, where you can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, tearooms and the delightful peacocks who inhabit the area.
Launceston's Gorge Scenic Chairlift is around a 15-minute walk from Launceston's central business district.
Daily: 09:00–17:00
The Gorge Chairlift at Cataract Gorge was one of the most unexpectedly memorable parts of our visit to Launceston. It’s not just an attraction! it’s an experience that slows everything down and lets you take in the landscape in the most peaceful way. What really makes it special is how simple yet impactful it is you’re not rushed, you’re just given time to take in the beauty of the area from a completely different perspective. A must do in Launceston if you want something relaxing, scenic, and genuinely unforgettable.
The Cataract Gorge Scenic Chairlift gives you aerial views over the very picturesque area below. I tool the ride from the rotunda hill end over to the carpark/cafe end. It took about 10mins, it is quite slow. It was $15 for one way which I thought was a bit too expensive for what it is. It is a lot higher than it looks. Your feet dangle and the chair is sloped backwards a bit. There is a bar that comes over your lap but does not click into anything. If you don't like heights give this one a miss as there is no way to get off once you have started. Lovely views of the water and the bridge. I paid when I got to the other side. Round trip tickets available too. I feel like $10 for one way for an adult would be a fair price.
It’s a scenic chair car of 10-15mints.. very beautiful views from the top. Once you reach the other end, you can opt for walking as well through different small tracks. You may find many wallabies there. Once you reach the other end, even if you wish to come back on chair lift, my suggestion would be to walk a bit and enjoy the suspension bridge. The view and the experience will be nice.
In Tassie for a holiday and did the chairlift over Cataract Gorge. An absolutely beautiful view and well worth it. We took the chairlift over, walked down the gorge and back, then walked back across the gorge. Being able to have the views from the chairlift , the gorge walk and then back over the bridge, was a great way to see the contrasts
I've been to Launceston a few times, and on this trip I was determined to see Cataract Gorge. I was pleased to find there was a chairlift so I could take in the view without a long walk. Staff here were friendly and helpful, and the ride was very pleasant on a beautiful day. Round trip was $20, and the trick is getting off - thankfully the staff help tilt the chair so you can lean forward and get your feet on the ground. The gorge itself was meh ... I grew up in the Rocky Mountains, so this was like a miniature scale.
Price range
From $12 To $20 per person
69 Basin Road
Launceston TAS 7250