The area was first surveyed in 1855 and was described as the best soil on the island - well watered, with a mild climate by surveyor James Scott, for whom the town is named. This rings true today as Scottsdale, as well as being the regional centre for other north-east towns, is a major agricultural centre.
Where Is it?
Scottsdale is 22 km south of Bridport, 63 km north east of Launceston.
Lookouts
Mount Maurice Forest Reserve or South Springfield Forest Park both make an ideal spot for a picnic or a walk. Sideling Lookout offers sweeping views of the town and the fertile countryside.
Things To See And Do
Forest EcoCentre
The Forest EcoCentre, situated at the entrance to the township, houses an interactive forest interpretation centre that focuses on the landscape, forest communities and history of the North East. The Forest EcoCentre is a recommended stopping point prior to exploring the forests of the north east, or taking a guided tour to experience all aspects and wonders to be discovered hidden away in these forests.
The drive from Launceston to Scottsdale via The Tasman Highway is quite scenic, through it has plenty of twists and turns as it winds its way through the mountains and care must be taken. There are plenty of good mountain and valley photo opportunities on the way, particularly where the road passes between Mt Arthur and Mt Barrow.
Mount Arthur sits imposingly overlooking the town of Lilydale. Because of its close proximity to Launceston, being directly to the north-east of Launceston, its summit is home to a number of radio towers. At 1188 metres, it is a 4 to 5 hour return walk through wet eucalypt rainforest to the summit, offering views to the northern coastline, the city of Launceston and the great western tiers. This fairly rigorous walk begins at the end of Mountain Road.
Bridestowe Lavender Estate
One of the most beautiful sights in Tasmania during December and January is Bridestowe Lavender Estate at Nabowla (15 km west). After four years of intensive restoration, the famous landmark property is a stunning showcase for the agricultural and technical excellence that made Bridestowe a benchmark for fine lavender oil throughout the world. The lavender is in flower from early December until it is harvested in January. Entry is free in all months except December and January when guided tours are held every half hour. Bridestowe Lavender Farm is one of the largest producers of lavender oil in the world.
Surrounding Area
Branxholm
Branxholm is a small timber, hop growing and agricultural town, which was a bustling mining town a century ago. Mt Horror, surrounded by extensive pine and gum plantations, has excellent scenic views; there are some top fishing spots along the banks of the Ringarooma River. Of historical interest is the disused Mt Paris Dam which has been emptied and left abandoned in the bush.
Legerwood
The small town of Legerwood near Ringarooma is worth a visit to see the town’s war memorial – a series of chainsaw scuptures honouring the soldiers who fell in the Great War (1914-18).Spanning the rugged North-East from Launceston to St Helens, the The Trail of the Tin Dragon winds its way through stunning scenery and historic townships. The Trail tells the little known story of tin mining in the North East of Tasmania, focusing on the European and Chinese miners who sought their fortune and risked all for this most remarkable metal.
Ringarooma
The village of Ringarooma is surrounded by farming country. Tt is on the edge of the mountains of the North-East, with Mount Victoria and Ben Lomond rising to the south. Ringarooma is home to one of the North East’s oldest churches, now proudly displaying the history of the community’s cultural, farming and mining past. A fascinating collection, much enjoyed by genealogists for it’s comprehensive history records, it’s a glimpse into a past of community, farming, gold and tin.
Ralphs Falls
At over 90 metres Ralphs Falls is Tasmania’s highest single drop waterfall, a streaming ribbon of water plunging over a sheer rock face. Soak up the beauty of the rich, rolling farmland surrounding Ringarooma en route to Mt. Victoria Forest Reserve and Ralph Falls.
From Ralphs Falls picnic area, choose the 20 minute return walk to through a wonderland of moss, ferns and Myrtle forest to Norm’s Lookout and the face of Ralphs Falls. At over 90 metres Ralphs Falls is Tasmania’s highest single drop waterfall, a streaming ribbon of water plunging over a sheer rock face.
Cash's Gorge
Cash’s Gorge is a beautiful but relaxed walk of approximately 40 minutes on boardwalk through rainforest, stands of tea tree, sphagnum moss and rugged terrain returning to the car park.
Major Attractions
Surrounding Towns
- Bridport
- Lilydale
- Legerwood
- Branxholm
- Gladstone
- Pioneer
- Weldborough
- Gladstone
- Tomahawk
- Legerwood Carvings
- Ralphs Falls
- Pipers River wine region
- Mt Paris Dam
- Trail of the Tin Dragon
Regional Attractions
Recommended Accommodation
