Highlands Power Trail

The Highlands Power Trail Bothwell is a self-guided driving trail located in the Central Highlands of Tasmania.

It spans over an 88 km stretch and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the history of hydro power in Tasmania. The trail features various sites, including power stations, workers' camps, and infrastructure like the Liapootah Power Station and the Marshalls Creek Power Station.

One of the highlights of the trail is the Waddamana Power Station Museum, which is situated on the trail. It is Tasmania's first Hydro Power Station site and offers exhibits, including working turbines that visitors can observe in motion.

The trail is open year-round, seven days a week, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. The Waddamana Power Station Museum operates from 10 am to 4 pm daily from December to February and weekends only from March to November. The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to February when the weather is warm and sunny. Another recommended time to visit is during the annual Hydro Tasmania open day, which provides access to areas that are usually closed off.

To reach the Highlands Power Trail, it is approximately a three-hour drive from Hobart and a two-hour drive from Launceston. The route starts on the northern side of Bothwell and follows the Highland Lakes Road, passing through several towns before ending at Liapootah Power Station. Visitors can choose to drive their own car or join a guided tour from Hobart or Launceston.

The Highlands Power Trail Bothwell is a must-visit destination for those interested in Tasmania's hydro-power history. It offers a driving route that showcases the history of Tasmania's power industry and features museums with important historic equipment.