Tassie’s Leven Canyon is a Remarkable Ravine

In the depths of central north Tasmania, nestled between farmlands and a campground you might just stumble upon this hidden gem – Leven Canyon.

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Tommeginne Nation, the traditional land of the Tommeginne people who have occupied and cared for this land for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Quick Facts Leven Canyon

Circuit Hike

Distance: 1.2km
Duration: 45 minutes
Closest town: Nietta

Note that the circuit hike is a combination of the Cruickshanks Lookout, Forest Stairs, and Edge Lookout Tracks)

Canyon Floor Walk

Distance: 1.9km
Duration: 30 mins return to The Splits / 1.5 hours return to Devil’s Elbow

About Leven Canyon

Leven Canyon is one of those places that makes you stop in your tracks—an unexpectedly wild slice of Tassie with remarkable views and barely a soul in sight. Whether you’re tackling the short but scenic 1.2km loop or venturing further on longer trails, you’ll be rewarded with epic lookout points over the 275m-deep gorge.

Pack a picnic or stay the night at the peaceful campground and soak it all in—this place is full of underrated magic.

How To Get to Leven Canyon

For Leven Canyon, travel south from Nietta on Loongana Road until you reach Leven Canyon Road on your right. Take this road until you reach the car park.

To reach the start of the Floor Track, continue down Loongana Road about 1km from the turn off to Leven Canyon Road.

Shot by S Group, Tourism Tas

Skill Level

Lookout trails: Beginner
Circuit hike: Beginner
Canyon floor walk: Intermediate – advanced

Essential Gear For Leven Canyon

• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes if just visiting the lookouts
• Camera
• Rain jacket
• Water 
• Snacks
• Camping gear if you want to stay the night

Read more: Packing List for Day Hikes

What it’s Like to Hike Leven Canyon

On a road trip around Tasmania, my husband and I were on the lookout for free campgrounds. We’d visited Gunns Plains Cave and were keen to settle in for the day. We searched for a little campground symbol on the map of Tommeginne Country.

We found one near a place marked Leven Canyon and headed off not knowing what to expect. It truly felt like we were driving to the middle of nowhere (funnily enough, the town of Nowhere Else is just 20km to the east). 

We finally reached the picnic area and campground and parked up. With time to stretch the legs, we wandered down the trail to Cruickshanks Lookout – what a shock we got when we saw the view!

Finding Leven Canyon

Remarkable vistas of mountains, a huge canyon, and the cascading River Leven where we just didn’t expect to find it. As most of the surrounding area we passed through on the drive was farmland we were certainly shocked. 

We didn’t have time to do the full hike that afternoon, but went back to the lookout for sunset with a cuppa then at sunrise also as it was just so stunning!

The next day we ventured down the lush, ferny Circuit Track which takes you along the Forest Stairs. There are conveniently-placed benches for rests which even tell you how many steps you’ve tackled and how many to go! 

There’s also the Edge Lookout along the track with amazing views closer to the base of the canyon. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see some of the local wildlife having breakfast.

Leven Canyon ended up being one of my favourite places that we visited and is definitely worth the little detour off the normal tourist route. 

As with pretty much anywhere in Tas, make sure you have a rain jacket and are prepared for the weather to change quickly. The Forest Stairs are quite steep and require a moderate level of fitness but could be skipped if you go one-way to each lookout. The main lookout is a fairly easy walk from the car park.

Read more: Remember to leave no trace!

Leven Canyon Floor Track

If you’re looking for some extra adventure, there’s also the Leven Canyon Floor Track which is a 1.9km hike to the base of the canyon.

We only walked as far as the bridge at The Splits, you can go further but the sign says for experienced hikers only (the track didn’t look well-used past the bridge)! This hike is located further down Loongana Road.

FAQs Leven Canyon

Where is Leven Canyon located?

This stunning collection of walking trails is located in northwestern Tasmania, about 50 minutes from Devonport and 40 minutes from Ulverstone. It’s nestled in the Leven Canyon Regional Reserve.

How hard is the circuit walk at the canyon?

The 1.2km loop is beginner-friendly but includes the steep Forest Stairs section. There are benches along the way, and you can skip the stairs by visiting each lookout separately.

What can you see from the lookouts?

Both Cruickshanks Lookout and Edge Lookout offer stunning views of the 275m-deep gorge, surrounding mountains, and the winding Leven River below.

Is there a longer hike at Leven Canyon?

Yes! The Canyon Floor Walk (1.9km) descends to the base of the gorge for a more immersive wilderness experience. It’s a tougher trail recommended for experienced hikers.

Can you camp at the canyon?

Sure can! There’s a peaceful free campground at the Leven Canyon picnic area, perfect for an overnight stay before exploring more of Tassie’s wild places.

What are some other great hikes nearby?

Check out Cradle Mountain for iconic alpine trails, Walls of Jerusalem for more stunning views, or go for gold on the Overland Track.

Are the walks here suitable for families?

Yes! The short walks to the lookouts are easy for kids, and the picnic area makes for a great family day out. The Canyon Floor Walk is more challenging and suited to older kids.

Do I need a Parks Pass to hike the canyon?

Nope! Unlike Tasmania’s national parks, the canyon is in a regional reserve, meaning entry is completely free.