Clarence Kayak Trail - Risdon to Little Howrah Beach
Getting There
Limited car parking is available at the Risdon Boat Launch off Saundersons Road, Risdon. An alternative starting point is Little Howrah Beach.
This section of the Clarence Kayak Trail provides you with the opportunity to see a diverse range of landform features including the spectacular cliffs of Bedlam Walls through to the attractive sandstone headlands and beaches along the eastern shore. You can paddle it as one trail or break up different sections to suit the weather conditions, your available time and interest.
What to Take:
- Wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for advanced skill trips
- Paddle leash
- Mobile phone (keep in a water tight bag) in case of an emergency
- Weather-appropriate clothing to stay warm and visible
- Navigational lights if you intend to paddle in conditions of poor visibility or darkness (white strobe light or all round light with 360° visibility)
- Sun protection – sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Wetsuit boots, rubber shoes or sandals
- Wear high visibility clothing to ensure you are able to be seen by other watercraft
- All paddlers should consider wetsuits or clothing capable of keeping you warm when wet in the event of a capsize
- Plenty of food and drinking water
- Maps in a waterproof bag
- Bag to collect rubbish (e.g. food and drink containers)
| Activity | Suggested Time | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
Track Features
Limited car parking is available at the Risdon Boat Launch off Saundersons Road, Risdon. An alternative starting point is Little Howrah Beach.
Kayak washdown facility is available at Little Howrah Beach and Bellerive Beach Park
Safety Precautions
This section of the river can be exposed to strong winds from the northwest, west and southwest making paddling difficult into the wind and waves. Strong southerly and southwesterly sea breezes can occur in summer. A southwest swell can cause surf breaking on the beaches and make it difficult to land or launch. When paddling under the Tasman Bridge be aware of other vessels and stay away from the main navigation span.
Plan your visit
Leave No Trace is an internationally accepted way of minimising impacts on the places we visit. Respect wildlife, be considerate with others, dispose your waste properly.
Be prepared for the walk. Plan your trip ahead, bring enough water, check the alerts, and make sure you are comfortable with the difficulty rating.
Track contacts
If you have any questions, feedback or updates regarding this track please contact the track manager at the Clarence City Council by phone on 03 6217 9500 or by email to clarence@ccc.tas.gov.au. For urgent communications please contact us by phone.
