Located in the beautiful state of Tasmania, Gunns Plains is a small town that is home to one of the most fascinating natural wonders in Australia – the Gunns Plains Caves. These caves are a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the mysteries of the underground world.
What to Expect
The Gunns Plains Caves are a truly unique experience, with something to offer for everyone. The cave was discovered in 1906 by Bill Woodhouse during a hunting trip. It has been used as a show cave for most of the 20th century, and is still being operated today. It is renowned for its magnificent formations, including calcite shawls and flowstone, and has a glow worm display.
Today, Gunns Plains Caves is one of Tasmania’s best tourist destinations, with visitors coming from all around Australia, and even the world, to view the stunning formations.
The Caves
The Gunns Plains Caves Tasmania are a series of limestone caves that were formed over millions of years. Enjoy the stunning cave formations, rich colours and sparkling crystals. Gunns Plains Caves is in the Gunns Plains State Reserve, approximately 30 kilometres south of Ulverstone in northwest Tasmania. This ten hectare area was one of the earliest cave reserves in Tasmania, being proclaimed a State Reserve in 1918.
The cave was formed by an underground river that still flows and contains freshwater crayfish, fish and eel. Platypus sleep and nest in the sandy banks along the river. Camping, accommodation and refreshments are also available nearby.
Tour Hours
Gunns Plains Caves interpretive guided tours run daily at 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm and 3:30pm.
Visitors can purchase tickets for the Gunns Plains Caves at the entrance to the caves.
Tips for Visiting
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as the caves can be slippery.
- Bring a jacket or sweater, as the caves can be cool and damp.
- Photography is allowed, but flash photography is not permitted.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- The caves are not wheelchair accessible.
Additional Safety Notes
Upon entry a steep flight of 54 concrete steps are descended and from this point the pathway if fairly level apart from a short ladder to be climbed down. The tour route through the caves is 275m long.
Please note that occasional dampness underfoot is not troublesome provided visitors wear low-heeled walking shoes. It is not recommended for those with health or mobility concerns.
