This is Tasmania's most photographed waterfall, reached via one of the state's most accessible tracks.

It's a short, easy walk on a sealed path suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Russell Falls also marks the start of both the Three Falls Circuit and the link to Tall Trees, so it works perfectly as a standalone short walk or as the beginning of a longer day.

This walk is ideal if:

Want an easy, accessible walk that doesn't require fitness or special equipment

Are traveling with young children or elderly relatives

Use a wheelchair or stroller

Want to see Tasmania's most famous waterfall without committing to a longer walk

Are interested in spotting native birds in the rainforest

Want a quick walk you can do in under 30 minutes

What to Expect

You'll start from the visitor centre on a wide, sealed path that follows the creek upstream. The sound of rushing water builds as you get closer. The canopy is thick and made up largely of massive tree ferns, so the walk feels noticeably cooler than the temperature at the start.

• A wide, sealed track with no steps or obstacles

• Massive tree ferns creating a dense canopy overhead

• Native birds including green rosellas, scrubtits, and Tasmanian thornbills

• A boardwalk section opening onto a large viewing deck

• Three tiers of falling water cascading over dark dolerite rock

• A second lookout offering a different perspective on the upper falls

The option to extend to other walks at Mount Field

Best Time to Visit

Russell Falls is accessible year-round, but the water flow varies with rainfall.

Spring (September to November) brings good water flow from winter rains, so the falls will be full and impressive. The forest is coming back to life with new growth and bird activity.

Summer (December to February) is the busiest season at Mount Field. The falls may be less dramatic depending on rainfall, and you'll have company on the track. Get there early to avoid crowds.

Autumn (March to May) offers cooler temperatures and can still have good water flow. It's quieter than summer, making it a pleasant time to visit.

Winter (June to August) brings the highest rainfall, so the waterfall is at its most powerful and dramatic. The forest feels particularly atmospheric, though the track can be wet and slippery. This is the quietest season.

Track Conditions and Things to Be Aware Of

The track is wide and sealed the entire way, with no steps or steep sections. It's designed for accessibility, so it's suitable for wheelchairs and strollers as well as all fitness levels.

The main things to watch for are wet sections near the waterfall and on the boardwalk. Even though the track is sealed, it can be slippery after rain. Decent footwear is recommended.

The viewing platforms can get crowded during peak season, particularly around midday. If you prefer solitude, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This is also your best chance to spot wildlife, including platypus in the nearby river.

Walking to Russell Falls

The walk starts at the visitor centre and follows the creek upstream on a straightforward path. There are no confusing junctions, just keep following the water upstream and you'll reach the falls.

The canopy of tree ferns keeps things cool and shaded throughout. As you walk, listen for birds in the canopy and undergrowth. Green rosellas are common here, along with smaller species constantly moving through the leaf litter. If you stop and watch for a few minutes, you're likely to spot movement.

The boardwalk section opens up into a large viewing deck directly in front of the falls. Russell Falls drops in three distinct tiers, with water cascading over dark dolerite rock dotted with ancient tree ferns. The main viewing platform gives you a direct view of the falls.

If you want a different perspective, a set of steps leads up to a second lookout offering views of the upper tiers. From here you can either return the way you came, or continue on to Horseshoe Falls and Tall Trees, or to complete the Three Falls Circuit.

Explore Some More

Glow Worms

If you're camping nearby, it's worth returning to Russell Falls after dark to spot glow worms. You'll have the best chance just before the waterfall where there's a steel handrail. Turn your torch off and let your eyes adjust to see the faint blue glow hanging from the damp overhang.

Glow worms are extremely sensitive to disturbance, so be quiet and use only dim red lights if you bring a torch. If you shine a bright light on them or touch their threads, they'll retreat and stop glowing.