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.

Highlights

  • Stumbling across an incredibly wild place
  • Remarkable views
  • Peaceful picnic area and campground
  • Options for different distance hikes

Finding 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 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!

 

 

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!

 

Hiking Leven Canyon

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!

 

Looking For a Leven Bit More?

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.

 

Essential Gear

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

How To Get There

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

Skill Level

Lookout: Beginner

Circuit hike: Beginner

Floor track: Intermediate-Advanced

Duration / Distance Covered

Lookout: around 20 mins return to each lookout separately

Circuit Hike: 45 mins / 1.2km circuit track

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