Where to Run in Launceston: A Local Runner's Guide

Explore

5 Aug

One of the things I love most about running is that you see a city completely differently on foot. You notice the changing light, the little laneways, the people heading off to work and places you'd probably drive straight past.

Whenever I travel, I always pack my running shoes. It's my favourite way to get my bearings, discover local cafés and experience a city. So, if you're visiting Launceston, here are the runs I'd recommend.

Run One: The kanamaluka Waterfront Run - 9 km

Distance: 3–12+ km
Terrain: Flat, sealed shared paths
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Riverbend Park (free, up to 3 hours)
Facilities: Toilets • Drinking water • Cafés • Playground
Perfect for: Holiday runners • Beautiful runs • Families

The Run

Start at Riverbend Park, Riverside from the Silo Hotel and head across the pedestrian bridge towards the Seaport and Royal Park. From there, cross Kings Bridge and join the West Tamar Trail, following the river all the way to Tailrace Park.

This out-and-back run is around 9 km return, making it ideal for an easy long run or a relaxed weekend jog. The route is mostly flat, follows the river almost the entire way and has very few road crossings, so you can simply settle into your pace and enjoy the scenery.

At Tailrace Park you'll find public toilets, water fountains and a few different paths to explore before turning around and heading back the way you came. Look at runs 11 and 12 on the map

If you're chasing extra kilometres, continue from Riverbend Park across the North Esk Bridge and along the levee towards Heritage Forest before looping back to your starting point. Look at runs 22

Afterwards

Cross the footbridge again and enjoy brunch or lunch at Mudbar Restaurant overlooking the marina.

If you've finished closer to Royal Park, grab a fresh juice from The Juice Bar before enjoying an easy one-kilometre stroll back to your car.

If your legs need a rest, jump aboard Tamar River Cruises. It's a wonderful way to experience the river from a different perspective while learning about the rich history of the kanamaluka, which has connected people to this place for thousands of years.

Still have some energy? Join us on The Heart of Launceston walking tour and discover the stories behind the waterfront, the city's beautiful heritage buildings and the characters who helped shape Northern Tasmania.

Run Two: Choose Your Own Gorge Adventure

Distance: 4–12+ km (depending on your route)
Terrain: Sealed paths or technical bush trails
Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
Parking: Duck Reach Power Station (free)
Facilities: Toilets • Gorge Kiosk • Chairlift • Picnic areas • Drinking water
Perfect for: Trail runners • Hill training • Sightseeing • Adventure seekers

Trail option - 12km

If you're comfortable on trails and happy following a map, cross the suspension bridge and tackle the stairs before weaving through the bush tracks towards Cataract Gorge.

Once you reach the Gorge, continue through the reserve or add extra distance by running all the way to Kings Bridge before returning. If you're chasing a challenge, don't miss the Zig Zag Track behind the Gorge Kiosk overlooking the swimming pool. Look at paths 3,4 and 5 on the map.

It's challenging, rewarding and one of the best ways to experience Launceston's natural beauty.

Sealed path option

If you're anything like me and prefer a more predictable surface, skip the suspension bridge altogether.

Continue straight ahead from Duck Reach and follow the shared riverside path towards Cataract Gorge. While there are still a few rocky sections and uneven stairs, it's a much friendlier option if your road running shoes are doing the work today.

The path is shared with walkers, so take your time, soak in the scenery and enjoy one of Launceston's most spectacular natural attractions. Look at paths 2,4 and 5 on the map.

If you're chasing extra kilometres, continue through the Gorge to Kings Bridge before making your way back.

Afterwards

Reward yourself with a coffee, lunch or an ice cream from the Gorge Kiosk.

If you've still got some energy left, wander through the reserve or jump aboard the iconic chairlift for a completely different perspective of Cataract Gorge before making your way back to Duck Reach.

Want to discover the stories behind this incredible place? Join us on The Dark Side walking tour and uncover the convicts, crime, executions and fascinating characters that helped shape Launceston.

Run Three: Tamar Island Wetlands

Distance: 3 km boardwalk (extend by repeating the loop)
Terrain: Flat boardwalk and compact gravel paths
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Tamar Island Wetlands Centre (free)
Facilities: Toilets • Visitor Centre • Picnic areas
Perfect for: Recovery runs • Birdwatching • Families • Easy sightseeing

The run

Just ten minutes north of Launceston, the Tamar Island Wetlands offers a peaceful escape from the city. The mostly flat boardwalk winds through one of Tasmania's most important wetlands, home to native birdlife, quiet waterways and beautiful views across the kanamaluka/Tamar River.

Once reclaimed for farming, the wetlands have been carefully restored into a thriving habitat for wildlife and remain an important conservation area today. It's one of the best places in Northern Tasmania to slow down, breathe deeply and simply enjoy being outside.

Afterwards... Make a day of it

Head to Timbre Kitchen for lunch, where the menu celebrates seasonal Tasmanian produce.

If you're in holiday mode, continue on to Turners Stillhouse for a locally crafted gin tasting or enjoy a relaxed wine tasting at Loira Vines.

History lovers shouldn't miss the Beaconsfield Mine & Heritage Centre, once home to one of the richest gold mines in the world.

Before heading back to Launceston, take the scenic drive across the Batman Bridge. Australia's first cable-stayed bridge offers some of the best views across the Tamar Valley and is well worth the detour.

By now you'll have enjoyed a beautiful run, a great meal, local wine or gin and discovered another corner of Northern Tasmania.

Back in Launceston, finish your day with either The Heart of Launceston or The Dark Side walking tour. Whether you love hidden history or local recommendations, it's the perfect way to round out your visit.

Join the Locals

If you're visiting on a Saturday morning, why not join one of our local parkruns?

• Riverbend parkrun – A flat riverside course following the kanamaluka.

• Launceston parkrun – Heritage Forest, combining bushland and river trails.

• University of Tasmania, Newnham parkrun – A welcoming community course around the university campus.

If you're visiting during the warmer months, keep an eye out for Run Launceston, a social Wednesday evening run organised by the City of Launceston. Best of all, it doesn't clash with our walking tours.

Explore Launceston on Foot

You've seen Launceston through a runner's eyes.

Now discover the stories behind the streets.

Whether you're joining us on The Heart of Launceston or The Dark Side, we'd love to show you another side of this beautiful city. After all, the best way to experience Launceston isn't from behind a windscreen.

It's on foot.