Two lookouts above a deep forested river gorge

Leven Canyon

Plan the Leven Canyon circuit with its steep connecting stairs, cliff hazards and current track conditions understood.

By Our Tasmania EditorialPublished 16 September 2026Updated 17 September 2026

Forested Leven Canyon viewed from above — Public lookouts reveal the depth of the canyon without entering the gorge.Steven Penton from Bakers Beach, Tasmania Australia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Leven River has cut a deep gorge through forested country south of Ulverstone. Two protected lookouts provide the principal public views without requiring a descent into the canyon.

The circuit is short but includes many steps

Parks Tasmania lists the lookout circuit as 1.2 kilometres and about 45 minutes, Grade 3. Cruickshanks Lookout stands roughly 275 metres above the river. A steep stair section connects it with Edge Lookout.

The stairs can be avoided

Visitors who do not want the connecting staircase can return to the car park and approach the second lookout from the opposite side. The walk itself is not wheelchair accessible, although accessible toilets are provided.

Conditions change in high country

Rain, snow, fallen vegetation and maintenance can affect the route. Supervise children at all times and remain behind barriers. Council works may temporarily close the connecting steps while leaving individual lookouts accessible.

Allow about 45 minutes driving from Ulverstone and avoid wildlife-active dusk travel where possible. Continue through Nietta, Gunns Plains or the Central Coast hinterland.