The Central Coast hinterland rises quickly south of Ulverstone and Penguin into dairy country, limestone valleys and forested ranges. Gunns Plains, Preston and Leven Canyon are separate destinations linked by rural roads, not one compact attraction loop.

Gunns Plains and the Leven River

Gunns Plains occupies a broad farming valley cut by the Leven River. The public cave is a commercial guided attraction with fixed tour arrangements. Check the operator directly and do not enter caves, sinkholes or private limestone features without permission.

Leven River flowing towards Ulverstone
The river links hinterland valleys with the north-west coast.Gary Houston, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Preston Falls

The signed walk to Preston Falls reaches a forested gorge and viewing area. Wet ground, roots and steep edges require proper footwear and close supervision of children. Check council and land-manager information before relying on an old track description.

Preston Falls dropping into a forested gorge
A short formed walk reaches the waterfall viewing area.Steven Penton from Bakers Beach, Tasmania Australia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Leven Canyon

Leven Canyon Reserve provides formed walks to lookouts above a deep gorge. The two main lookouts can be connected by a steep stair section, so return by the same route if knees, weather or daylight make the circuit unsuitable.

Lookout view into the forested Leven Canyon
The reserve’s formed lookouts reveal the scale and steepness of the gorge.Steven Penton from Bakers Beach, Tasmania Australia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Roads between these places are narrow and winding. Allow for farm vehicles, gravel shoulders, fog and wildlife. Stock up on the coast, carry water and give the hinterland a full day. Sheffield lies in a different inland district and should be planned as a separate extension.