The Weld River in North East Tasmania drops down several tiers forming Harridge Falls. At about 5 m it is not tall but is a delightful waterfall well worth visiting.
Calming Effect of Waterfalls
In August last year Graham and I re-visited Harridge Falls near Weldborough, Tasmania. We have been here many times. By the way, I notice that Harridge Falls has scored an internet star-rating of only 2.6. So why are we so drawn to this waterfall?
Well, I have heard the negative-ion rich air around waterfalls promotes alpha brain waves. Certainly I feel the calming and relaxing effect of this waterfall. Perhaps because you can get close enough to feel the spray on your face?
But whatever the scientific facts, I am certain you will enjoy the cool green under story of this short walk in the rain forest. Then you can breathe deeply of the clean refreshing air near the river. Shinrin-yoku: Walk slowly. Breathe. Open all your senses.
In the heat of summer you may even be tempted to take a splash into the inviting clear water, too! But as always be very careful if you do.
A Myrtle Orange Lush understory Vibrant colour in the forest
How to Find Harridge Falls
Although this is a short walk, I recommend you allow two hours for this excursion. This allows you time to take photos, have a picnic and explore the area. The geographical coordinates are -41.150001525 (lat) and 147.899993896 (long).
The start of the Harridge Falls walk is 25 km from Tin Dragon Trail Cottages on the A3 highway. Turn right onto the A3 when you leave our front road and drive to Moorina (21 km). You will cross over the Ringarooma River just before the Moorina cemetery. The Moorina Golf Course will be on your right and a short distance further you will see the Frome Road on your left. Continue another 4.1 km along the A3.
Just as the road starts to twist uphill you should notice numbering on the left-hand-side guide posts, starting at one (1). Prepare to pull over to the left just after the post numbered four (4). There is a small parking area just before a 4WD track, which heads downhill. Park here, making sure you don’t block the entrance to the 4WD track.
The start of the track is marked with bright pink ribbon. Follow the ribbons down the hill through the myrtle and tree-fern forest. It is only a short 15 minute walk to the top of the waterfall. Although it is an easy-to-moderate walk, it can be slippery in parts.
The top of the waterfall is the ideal place to have your picnic. Hope you remembered to bring your thermos of hot coffee!
Walk Below the Waterfall
If you look carefully you will find another track along the bank of the Weld river. Follow the bright pink ribbons to find the short (5 minute) track which takes you below the waterfall. There is another track which will take you further upstream, too. At drier times of the year you can scramble down the granite slope to see the waterfall.
Calming
