A close to home walk that never disappoints

February is still a great time to get out and explore close to home, and one walk that consistently delivers without needing a big time commitment is Alum Cliffs. It’s an easy, well-maintained walk that gives you a real sense of the scale and beauty of the Great Western Tiers, without being long or demanding.

The walk starts with a short drive from Deloraine heading towards Mole Creek. The Alum Cliffs car park is clearly signed and easy to find, making it a straightforward option whether you’re a local or just passing through the area. From the car park, the track heads gently uphill. It’s a steady climb but nothing strenuous, and it doesn’t take long before you reach one of the more interesting features of the walk.

Early on, you come across a sculpture that immediately draws your attention. At first glance, it points out three prominent features of the Great Western Tiers: Western Bluff, Quamby Bluff and Alum Cliffs. But there’s more to it than just a directional marker. The sculpture represents the traditional pathways used by Tasmanian Aboriginal people as they moved through this landscape long before modern roads and walking tracks existed. These routes followed the natural contours of the land, linking river systems, food sources and shelter across the Tiers. It’s a subtle but meaningful reminder that this country has been walked, known and understood for thousands of years.

From the sculpture, the walk continues along a well-defined and well-looked-after track. This section is an easy stroll through bushland and is a good example of why the Great Western Tiers short walks are so popular. You don’t need specialist gear or a high level of fitness, just comfortable shoes and a bit of time. The track is clear, the surroundings are peaceful, and it’s a walk that lets you slow down and enjoy where you are.

The payoff comes when you reach the lookout. Standing at the edge, you’re looking out over the Alum Cliffs as they rise sharply from the Mersey River below. The river winds its way through the gorge, and the contrast between the sheer rock faces, the water and the surrounding forest is striking. It’s the kind of view that feels far bigger than the effort it takes to get there.

This is a great spot to stop and take it all in. Whether you’re there for photos, a quiet moment, or just to appreciate the landscape, the lookout never disappoints. Even if you’ve done the walk before, it’s one of those places that looks different depending on the light, the weather and the time of year.

Like most bush walks in the warmer months, you’re sharing the track with local wildlife. If you happen to spot one of the long, skinny locals along the way, give it a bit of space and let it get on with its day, you’re both just passing through.

Alum Cliffs is a strong example of what the Great Western Tiers short walks are all about: accessible walks with genuinely rewarding destinations. If you’re looking to explore more walks like this, the Great Western Tiers short walks website is a great place to start, or drop into the Great Western Tiers Visitor Centre in Deloraine to get the lowdown on all the attractions in the area.

If you’re after an easy walk with a big view at the end, Alum Cliffs is well worth putting on your list.