Risbys Falls

GPS Coords: -42.8103, 146.6363
Land Tenure: Conservation Area

Updated on 31 May 2026

Risby Falls
© 2015 - 2026 Waterfalls of Tasmania - Photographer Unknown
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Grade 5 Hike
Suitable for very experienced hikers only.

2.6km's2 Hours returnRough unformed track No directional signage

No Modification of the natural environment.

Dogs on leash allowed
Drones are not allowed
Unknown if accessible with a caravan
Unknown if accessible with a campervan or RV
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About Risbys Falls

One of the many obscure, unnamed waterfalls in the Styx, Risbys Falls (so-named due to draining Risbys Plains in the Maydena Range above) is a gorgeous, mossy waterfall that cascades 18 metres in a lush rainforest setting. Like most of falls in the Styx, no tracks lead to Risbys Falls, and access is only possible for experienced hikers. 

To reach Risbys Falls, the shortest route involves parking along Styx Road due south of the falls, and descending towards Styx River, about a 400 metre walk through relatively open forest. Being a major river, it goes without saying that a crossing should only be attempted when water levels are relatively low, and if levels are too high alternative access to the falls may be possible from the Forestry roads to the north and west of the falls. Assuming the river is passable, cross at the point where the Risbys Falls Creek flows in, and begin the hike upstream through the creek. The walk up the creek is one of the most beautiful creek walks anywhere through pristine rainforest, and has minimal serious scrub to content with though the ground is often very soft and unstable. After a walk of 750 metres as the crow flies, though longer once you account for the various points where you zigzag across the creek, the impressive falls emerge in a clearing ahead.

Risbys Falls are a great reward for effort, and with a walk of only about an hour each way are a great fall to seek out for experienced fall-baggers well accustomed to off-track hiking in the Tasmanian rainforest. The photos on this page were taken during a dry autumn and shows the falls at low, but still satisfying flow, indicating that they likely retain decent flow year-round. At higher flow, however, they would likely be even more impressive, with the left segment likely to swell and give the falls a unique bell shape.

If you make it to Risbys Falls it's well worth the effort extending the hike slightly further and climbing above the main falls to seek out Upper Risbys Falls just 100 metres upstream. Not only will you be rewarded with another gorgeous falls, but the views from the top of RIsbys Falls are spectacular on a clear day, looking across to Snowy North.

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