Montezuma Falls and Ring River

This trek covers a small section of South-West Tasmania and begins in Zeehan. The two main highlights of the trek are within the state forest being the tallest waterfall in Tasmania that you will reach after travelling through rainforest, and the Ring River track that veers off the same track on your return journey that is significantly more challenging than the way you came in with muddy tracks and the crossing of a fast flowing river, which is the Ring River. The trip ends back on the main highway further NE of Zeehan enroute to Rosberry/Tullah.

Environment

Montezuma Falls is the tallest in Tasmania at 104 metres. The Montezuma Track traverses through rainforest and is often wet and slippery. Light rain is typical for most of the year. Even in summer, good wet weather gear is essential along with warm clothing and sturdy footwear.

History

This track follows the old North East Dundas Railway formation that was first opened in 1898. You may see some remains of the collapsed trestle bridge in the valley along the way. Comprised of 2ft gauge line, it carried steam trains hauling ore between Williamsford and smelters south of Zeehan, having first been hauled from the Hercules Mine on Mt Reid. In 1929 the line ceased operation.

TrekID: 69

The Montezuma Falls vehicular track is not a difficult 4WD track, however drivers will require constant concentration and care at the numerous river crossings that occur at base of hairpin turns at base of steep sections. Drivers should be wary of oncoming traffic and should use an UHF radio to warn other drivers of your presence. It is suggested that UHF radio 10 be used to transmit your callsign followed by "Montezuma" every 10 minutes to notify others in the vicinty of your presence - you should therefore be scanning all stations or at least Channel 10.

The Ring River Track however is significantly more challenging and should only be attempted by drivers that possess both experience, and a vehicle that has been prepared for deep river crossings. Travel in convoy along this section of track is highly recommended in case of the need for recovery as there is every chance of getting bogged in mud, or having dramas at the river crossing. During the peak summer tourits season over the Xmas holiday period, there should be sufficient drivers along the track to ensure that those with a UHF radio should be able to make contact with others nearby if additional help is required.

Trailers of any sort are definately not suitable for this trip - mostly due to the fact that there is no turning bay at the end of the track at the falls and there is very little room on the narrow single lane track for oncoming vehicles to pass one-another.

We have provided an alternative return route from the end of the Montezuma Track - exiting the Montezuma Track along the River River Track which meets the Murchison Highway. Note - this is much more difficult track and involves the crossing of the Ring River which can hold significant fast flowing water after rain. Much of the track is eroded and rutted and after rain is quite challenging.

There is no camping or facilities along either of these tracks and drivers should be fully self-sufficient. This should be planned as a day trip only.

Fuel Usage

Diesel	ULP	LPG
4cyl 6 litres	4cyl 7 litres	4cyl 9 litres
6cyl 7 litres	6cyl 8 litres	6cyl 8 litres
8cyl 7 litres	8cyl 7 litres

Best Time To Visit

All year (avoid particularly wet periods as rain may close Montezuma Falls track)

Where to Stay

No Places To Stay available for this trek

Services & Supplies

No Services & Supplies available for this trek