Horsetail Falls, Tasmania - A Cascading Waterfall near Queenstown

Horsetail Falls, Tasmania - A Cascading Waterfall near Queenstown

Horsetail Falls is a striking seasonal waterfall located just a short drive from Queenstown on Tasmania’s rugged West Coast. When flowing well, the water spills gracefully down the steep rock face of Mount Owen, creating a fine, silvery cascade that truly does resemble a horse’s tail as it fans out over the cliff.

Set against a dramatic backdrop of exposed rock, sparse vegetation, and wide open skies, Horsetail Falls perfectly captures the raw beauty of Tasmania’s mining landscapes. It’s an easy and rewarding stop for travellers exploring Queenstown or driving the Lyell Highway toward Hobart.

A Seasonal West Coast Waterfall

Horsetail Falls is a 50-metre seasonal waterfall flowing along Moore Creek, and it is at its most impressive after heavy rain. During wetter months, the falls surge dramatically down the mountainside, while in drier conditions they may reduce to a gentle trickle — still scenic, but far less dramatic.

Because of its roadside accessibility and open views, Horsetail Falls is a favourite with photographers, especially after rain when the waterfall contrasts beautifully with the rust-coloured rock and rugged terrain of the West Coast.

Horsetail Falls Queenstown

Horsetail Falls Queenstown

Horsetail Falls Queenstown

Horsetail Falls Walk

A 1-kilometre boardwalk winds gently around the mountainside, offering excellent viewpoints of Horsetail Falls and sweeping views across the surrounding landscape. Along the walk, Mount Owen rises impressively in the background, adding to the sense of scale and drama. The boardwalk is easy to follow and suitable for most fitness levels, making this a great short walk to stretch your legs and soak up some classic West Coast scenery without committing to a long hike.

How to Get to Horsetail Falls

There is a large, well-signposted car park just off the Lyell Highway where the boardwalk begins, making Horsetail Falls an easy stop when travelling in or out of Queenstown. From Queenstown, head east toward Gormanston on the Lyell Highway (A10). After approximately 5 kilometres, you’ll see clear signage for Horsetail Falls and a large roadside parking area. The boardwalk to the falls starts directly from the car park.

Final Thoughts

Horsetail Falls is a simple yet memorable stop on Tasmania’s wild West Coast, offering dramatic scenery without the need for a long or difficult walk. Best visited after rain, the waterfall’s delicate cascade against the rugged slopes of Mount Owen perfectly reflects the raw beauty of the region.

Whether you’re passing through Queenstown or exploring the Lyell Highway, Horsetail Falls is a rewarding place to pause, take in the landscape, and experience the untamed spirit of Tasmania’s west.

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