04 March 2025
Luckily, Tasmania is packed with incredible destinations just a short drive from Hobart and Launceston. Whether it’s a peaceful stroll by the lake, a picnic in a picturesque spot, or a fun-filled adventure for the kids, there are plenty of places to explore without needing to stay the night.
So, if life’s feeling a bit hectic, take a day to rediscover what makes Tassie so special. Here are some of our favourite family-friendly day trips to get you started!
Completed on the 25th of November 1974, this engineering marvel is the double curvature arched dam that forms Lake Gordon. Sitting at 140 metres tall, a visit to the dam wall is not for the faint hearted! Gordon Dam holds back over 26 times the amount of water in Sydney Harbour.
You can take in the views from the viewing platform or make your way down the stairs to the top of the dam wall to fully see this engineering marvel up close.
Gordon Dam
While you're in the South-West, why not pop into Pedder Wilderness Lodge for lunch! Located in the heart of Tasmania's Southwest National Park, Twelvetrees Restaurant has spectacular views over Lake Pedder and the Twelvetrees Range.
Originally established as the construction village of Strathgordon for the development of the mighty Gordon Dam and Power Station, the Lodge has been transformed to a relaxing warm environment with a focus on fine Tasmanian food and wine.
Make sure to follow Pedder Wilderness Lodge on Facebook and Instagram!
Lake Pedder
Just over 10 minutes from Launceston CBD, Trevallyn Dam is a delightful escape into nature, with plenty of picnic space! The day-use area also has BBQ facilities and pathways that are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Don't forget to bring your four-legged friends as well!
The picnic area is also a fantastic spot to learn a bit more about the hydropower development in the area, with multiple installations telling the history of the people who built the dam and nearby power station.
Trevallyn Dam and day-use area
Step back into the beginnings of Tasmanian hydropower at Waddamana Power Station Heritage Site. What was once our first operational power station back in 1914 is now a museum filled with hydropower history!
You can wander at your own leisure or take a guided tour around the site with one of the knowledgeable staff members.
And the power station is not the only drawcard! The site also boasts a wonderful outdoor area that takes in the amazing scenery, including the old penstocks, giving you an insight into the engineering marvel that building a power station in such a remote are over 100 years ago would have been. Take advantage of the BBQs at the site and BYO sausage sizzle or pack a picnic to enjoy.
Tarraleah is an area rich with hydropower history! Tarraleah Estate was once home to workers on the Derwent hydropower scheme, who built the nearby Tarraleah and Tungatinah power schemes. Once again managed by Hydro Tasmania, you are welcome to explore Tarraleah Village, including the Highlander Arms Restaurant and Cafe. You can also walk to the nearby lookout and see down the lengths of the mighty penstocks that take water into the Tarraleah Power Station.
Tarraleah Penstocks Lookout
The Village is now once again occupied by our own workforce who are working at the nearby upgrades at Lake King William, however - some accommodation is still available for public access. Visit tarraleah.com to learn more!
If you'd instead like to fire up the BBQ, there is a day-use area at the Nive River, between Tarraleah and Tungatinah Power Stations. Toilets are also available here!
Tarraleah Estate
Learn about all of these locations and more at www.hydro.com.au/things-to-do! Use our interactive map to find day-use areas, free campgrounds and wild lakes to explore across Tasmania 🎣
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The Waddamana Power Station Heritage Site has re-opened to the public, having survived Tasmania's relentless summer fires. It is Hydro Tasmania’s first power station and the centrepiece of the Great Lake Power Scheme, which is entered on the Tasmanian Heritage Register.
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