Launceston Basin Chairlift lets you view magnificent Cataract Gorge from above, located in northern Tasmania. Take in the spectacular features of Cataract Gorge from this single-span chairlift. View the South Esk River in a serene or turbulent mood after a flood as well as tree rhododendrons and fern glades. It takes about eight minutes to take the ride across Cataract Gorge and First Basin. Top speed is a sedate one metre per second, but usually the chairlift runs slower than that to afford passengers a longer ride. It is about 457 metres (1462 feet) from station to station, with a central span between two pylons of 308 metres (985 feet), believed to be the longest single span of any chairlift in the world. Since its opening in 1972, the chairlift has established a 100 percent safety record. Be sure to also wander the grounds below the chairlift, where you can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, tea rooms and the delightful peacocks who inhabit the area. Launceston Basin Chairlift is just a few minutes' walk from Launceston's central business district.
