Kayaking the Derwent River – Meadowbank to Big Bend
Paddle Overview
Paddled on 8 February 2021
24.2km
3hr (not counting breaks)
Entry Point
The Paddle About Tasmania guide says the river entry is at the base of the Meadowbank Dam, accessed via Meadowbank Dam Road. However, there is a gate across Meadowbank Dam Road at the Lyell Highway and an enquiry with Hydro Tasmania indicated they do not allow public access due to liability issues.
We were able to gain access to the river through the nearby farm property Glenelg Estate, with the Meadowbank Vineyard being a potential alternative on the western side of the river.
Exit Point
Our exit point was at Big Bend (also known as Rayners Corner), just south of Bushy Park. There is a clear track here leading up the bank to Glenora Road, with a big gravel parking area off the road.
