Waterworks Reserve - Image 1
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Waterworks Reserve

4.7
·269 reviews·Ridgeway, Australia

A serene, leafy nature reserve with historic reservoirs, walking tracks, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful nature escape

CrowdLow
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Waterworks Reserve - Image 1

Waterworks Reserve

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful nature escape

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene, leafy nature reserve with historic reservoirs, walking tracks, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

4.7
(269 reviews)

"A beloved local spot for picnics and peaceful walks, offering beautiful nature close to the city."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack a Picnic Basket 🧺

Perfect for BBQs and leisurely lunches. Locals love it here for a relaxed meal.

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

Many well-signposted walking tracks await, some leading to stunning views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Reservoirs

Tranquil Reservoirs

Upper and Lower Reservoirs

Capture serene reflections of kunanyi/Mt Wellington in these historic water sources.

Picnic & BBQ Spots

Picnic & BBQ Spots

Various designated areas

Enjoy a leisurely meal amidst nature, often with visits from friendly Australian ravens.

Scenic Walking Tracks

Scenic Walking Tracks

Various trails

Explore well-signposted paths offering beautiful views and access to surrounding natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Waterworks Reserve is a beloved local spot, especially for picnics and BBQs. Weekends can get busy, so consider a weekday visit for a more peaceful experience. Check for any ongoing upgrades that might affect access to certain tracks.

Plan Your Adventure

With various walking tracks, including those leading to Gentle Annie Falls (check for closures) and even Mt Wellington, Waterworks offers more than just a picnic. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for your hike.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful nature escape
Crowd
Low
When
Winter afternoons
Why
Refreshing, quiet walks
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively picnic atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Looking for something to do??? Pueblo Colorado Hidden Gem... Family fun for everyone! Check it out!! #coloradocheck #pueblocolorado #FamilyFun #waterworkspark
@ana.d.a.i.s.y
7.7K likes • 166.5K views

Pack a Picnic Basket 🧺

Perfect for BBQs and leisurely lunches. Locals love it here for a relaxed meal. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

Many well-signposted walking tracks await, some leading to stunning views. Reddit

this has been on my austin bucket list for so long!!! we were paddling so fast to get there... maybe we will do shores next year. #waterworks #austin #downtown #texas #fyp
@ariana_84
2.8K likes • 22.1K views
Waterworks reserve this morning ❤️. First constructed in the 1860s, the Waterworks reservoirs capture the flow of creeks and rivers rising on the higher slopes of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. #waterworks #waterworksreserve #tasmania
kinasihw
4 likes • 237 views

Check Track Status ⚠️

Some trails, like Gentle Annie Falls, may be closed for upgrades. Reddit

Local's Favorite Spot :heart:

Enjoy nature away from the main tourist crowds, just a short drive from the city. Reddit

This Easter MONDAY 🚨🚨 Can’t wait to see you and all the Tassie birds at the beautiful Waterworks Reserve 🌱 Drop a comment if your coming along !
coexist_hobart
30 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack a Picnic Basket 🧺

Perfect for BBQs and leisurely lunches. Locals love it here for a relaxed meal. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:

Many well-signposted walking tracks await, some leading to stunning views. Reddit

Check Track Status ⚠️

Some trails, like Gentle Annie Falls, may be closed for upgrades. Reddit

Local's Favorite Spot :heart:

Enjoy nature away from the main tourist crowds, just a short drive from the city. Reddit

Raven Encounters :bird:

Friendly Australian ravens are common visitors, especially around picnic areas. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(269 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Waterworks Reserve for its serene natural beauty, well-maintained walking tracks, and excellent picnic and BBQ facilities. It's highlighted as a peaceful local escape, perfect for enjoying nature close to the city, though some tracks may occasionally be closed for upgrades.

"I'm sure these picnic grounds are busy on a weekend, but on a winter lunchtime midweek it felt like we were the only picnickers. It was easy to get a BBQ with seating nearby and we were visited by the cutest Australian ravens. The park is currently being upgraded and it has improved every time we visit."

Amanda Thomas

"I went in a sunny winter day, quite peaceful and refreshing tracks, wonderful view! The Gentle Annie Falls track was closed, but I took the McDermotts fire trail to hike around Chimney Pot Hill and Rigdeway Reservoir. It was a wonderful day-hike!"

Noemi Otsuka

"Great trail, very well sign posted and easy to navigate with helpful information at regular intervals.
Start of trail is quite a walk from the city centre (came from the cruise port but very manageable with only a few hours) and the trail itself to the reservoir is not too steep, and very enjoyable.
Able to carry on up to the falls and even Mt Wellington Park."

Rebecca

What People Like

Peaceful local escape
Beautiful walking tracks
Great picnic spots

What People Dislike

Occasional track closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Waterworks Reserve is conveniently located less than half an hour's drive from Hobart's city center. It's a popular spot for locals and easily accessible by car. Reddit

Yes, it's manageable to visit from the cruise port with a few hours to spare. The walk to the reservoir is not too steep. Reddit

While it's a bit of a walk from the city center, the trails themselves are enjoyable and well-signposted. Reddit

There are ample picnic areas with nearby seating and BBQ facilities, suggesting good parking availability, especially on weekdays. Reddit

Information on public transport access is limited, but driving is the most common and recommended method for reaching the reserve. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Waterworks Reserve is generally a free public space, making it an accessible nature escape for everyone. Instagram

As a nature reserve, it's typically open from dawn till dusk, allowing for flexible visits. Instagram

There's no mention of booking requirements for general use. BBQ facilities with seating are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reddit

Yes, events like the Riddim Music Fest and Easter Monday gatherings have been held here, often free to attend. Instagram+1

Absolutely! It's a perfect spot for a day trip, offering walking, picnicking, and a chance to enjoy nature close to the city. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Waterworks Reserve features well-signposted and easy-to-navigate walking tracks, with helpful information provided at intervals. You can hike around reservoirs or towards falls. Reddit

The reservoirs are primarily for water capture and not designated for swimming. Enjoy the scenic views from the banks instead. Instagram

Yes, the reserve is described as having playgrounds, making it a family-friendly destination for a day out. TikTok

Keep an eye out for local birdlife, including the common and friendly Australian ravens, especially around picnic areas. Reddit

The serene reservoirs, natural landscapes, and views of Mt Wellington offer beautiful photographic opportunities, especially in the morning light. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Early mornings offer serene light for capturing reflections in the reservoirs and the beauty of nature. InstagramReddit

Focus on the tranquil reservoirs, the surrounding leafy landscapes, and views of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. Instagram+1

The areas around the upper reservoir provide excellent vantage points for capturing the landscape and reflections. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the natural beauty. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscape shots. Instagram

Yes, the Australian ravens and other birdlife can make for interesting wildlife photography subjects. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Waterworks Reserve is a fantastic destination for families. It features playgrounds that will keep the little ones entertained, alongside ample picnic and BBQ areas perfect for a family outing. The walking tracks are generally easy to navigate, making them suitable for short strolls with children. It's a great place to enjoy nature and burn off some energy in a safe and beautiful environment. TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers

For those who love to explore on foot, Waterworks Reserve offers a variety of well-maintained and clearly marked trails. You can opt for a gentle walk around the reservoirs or embark on more challenging hikes that can lead towards Mt Wellington. Remember to check for any track closures before you go and wear appropriate footwear. The scenic beauty and fresh air make it a rewarding experience for all levels of walkers. InstagramReddit

📸 Photographers

The serene reservoirs, the backdrop of kunanyi/Mt Wellington, and the lush greenery provide excellent opportunities for photographers. Early mornings are particularly magical for capturing reflections and soft light. Whether you're interested in landscapes, wildlife (like the local ravens), or simply the tranquility of nature, Waterworks Reserve offers a picturesque setting. InstagramReddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Waterworks Reserve holds a significant place in Tasmania's history, with its reservoirs first constructed in the 1860s. These vital structures were designed to capture the flow of creeks and rivers originating from the higher slopes of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. This historical infrastructure not only served a crucial purpose for the region but also shaped the landscape into the serene reserve it is today. The ongoing upgrades suggest a commitment to preserving and enhancing this heritage site for future generations. Instagram

Exploring the Trails

The reserve boasts a network of well-signposted and easy-to-navigate walking tracks, catering to various fitness levels. While some trails, like the Gentle Annie Falls track, may occasionally be closed for maintenance or upgrades, alternative routes like the McDermotts fire trail offer rewarding experiences. Hikers can explore around the Ridgway Reservoir or continue towards the summit of Mt Wellington for more challenging adventures. The trails provide a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. TikTokReddit

The Local's Picnic Paradise

Waterworks Reserve is a cherished spot for locals seeking a peaceful escape for picnics and BBQs. The availability of BBQ facilities with nearby seating makes it an ideal location for family gatherings and relaxed afternoons. While weekends can be bustling with activity, a weekday visit offers a more tranquil experience, often with only a few other visitors. The presence of friendly Australian ravens adds a unique charm to the picnic experience. TikTokReddit

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