Tasmania's Wilderness: Hidden Gems and Adventure Guide

Separated from mainland Australia by the tumultuous waters of Bass Strait, Tasmania is a land apart – wild, pristine, and extraordinarily diverse. Australia's island state packs an astonishing array of landscapes into its compact territory: ancient rainforests, alpine plateaus, unspoiled beaches, and rugged mountains. With nearly half of its landmass protected in national parks and reserves, Tasmania offers some of the world's finest wilderness experiences.

In this guide, we'll take you beyond the typical tourist trail to discover the hidden gems and unforgettable adventures that await in Tasmania's wilderness areas. Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking solitude in nature, Tasmania's wild places will leave an indelible impression on your soul.

The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Covering approximately 1.6 million hectares (about 20% of Tasmania), the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area is one of the world's largest temperate wilderness regions. This UNESCO-listed site encompasses six major national parks and numerous conservation areas, protecting landscapes that have remained largely unchanged since the Gondwanan era.

What makes this area particularly special is that it meets seven out of ten criteria for World Heritage listing – a rare achievement shared by only one other place on Earth. Its value lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its ecological significance and cultural heritage, with evidence of Aboriginal occupation dating back more than 35,000 years.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park: The Crown Jewel

No discussion of Tasmania's wilderness would be complete without featuring Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, home to some of Australia's most iconic alpine scenery and the world-famous Overland Track.

Discovering Cradle Mountain

At the northern end of the park, the jagged dolerite peaks of Cradle Mountain rise dramatically above the buttongrass plains and glacial lakes, creating one of Australia's most photographed landscapes. While the mountain itself draws the eye, the surrounding area offers diverse experiences:

• Dove Lake Circuit – This 6km relatively flat track is perfect for those wanting to experience the area's beauty without a strenuous hike. The path winds around the glacial lake with stunning views of Cradle Mountain throughout.
• Marion's Lookout – A more challenging 3-hour return walk that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Cradle Mountain, Dove Lake, and the surrounding peaks.
• Cradle Mountain Summit – For experienced hikers, the challenging 6-8 hour return climb to the summit (1,545m) involves some scrambling over boulder fields but offers unparalleled views.
• Enchanted Walk – A short 20-minute rainforest walk perfect for families and those with limited mobility.

"The landscape around Cradle Mountain has a profound emotional impact on visitors. There's something almost spiritual about the way the mountain appears and disappears through the mist, constantly changing its mood." – Local Ranger

Wildlife Watching

Cradle Mountain is one of the best places in Tasmania to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Wombats are commonly seen grazing in the grassy areas near Ronny Creek, particularly around dawn and dusk. Pademelons (small wallabies), echidnas, and platypus also inhabit the area.

For a truly special experience, join a guided night wildlife tour to spot nocturnal creatures including Tasmanian devils, quolls, and possums.

The Legendary Overland Track

The 65km Overland Track is Australia's premier alpine walk, traversing the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. This six-day journey takes hikers through a remarkable variety of landscapes: ancient rainforests, alpine plateaus, button grass moorlands, and glacial valleys.

While the main track can be completed in six days, side trips to summits and hidden valleys can extend the experience. Highlights include:

• The panoramic views from the summit of Cradle Mountain
• The pristine waters of D'Alton and Fergusson Falls
• The otherworldly landscape of the Pine Forest Moor
• The challenge of climbing Mt Ossa, Tasmania's highest peak (1,617m)

Important information for hikers planning the Overland Track:

• During the peak season (October 1 to May 31), you must book in advance, walk from north to south, and pay a fee (approximately $200 AUD).
• Outside peak season, booking is not required, but winter walking demands experience with alpine conditions and advanced preparation.
• Basic huts are available along the route, but hikers should always carry a tent as backup.
• All water should be treated before drinking, even water from sources that appear pristine.

The Wild West Coast: Frontier Wilderness

Tasmania's west coast is a frontier land of extreme weather, rugged mountains, dense rainforest, and a turbulent human history. Here, nature dominates in a way rarely experienced in our increasingly developed world.

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

The pristine rivers that flow through this park were at the center of one of Australia's most significant environmental battles in the early 1980s. The successful campaign to stop the damming of the Franklin River marked a turning point in Australian conservation.

Today, the park offers several ways to experience its wild beauty:

• Franklin River Rafting – A multi-day white-water rafting expedition down the Franklin River is considered one of the world's great wilderness journeys. This challenging adventure takes you through deep gorges and pristine rainforest, with no road access for the entire journey.
• Frenchmans Cap – The distinctive white quartzite dome of Frenchmans Cap (1,446m) is the target of a challenging 46km return hike that typically takes 4-5 days. The trail passes through the infamous Sodden Loddons, a notoriously muddy section that has been partially improved with boardwalks in recent years.
• Donaghys Hill Lookout – For those with limited time, this 40-minute return walk offers spectacular views of Frenchmans Cap and the Franklin River valley.
• Nelson Falls – An easy 20-minute return walk to a beautiful 30m waterfall.

The Western Explorer Route

For those with a 4WD vehicle and a sense of adventure, the Western Explorer Route (Highway C249) offers access to some of Tasmania's most remote and spectacular landscapes. This gravel road stretches from Zeehan to Arthur River, passing through the edge of the Tarkine wilderness.

Known as the "Road to Nowhere," this is one of Australia's most isolated roads, with essential services few and far between. The effort is rewarded with access to places like:

• Corinna – A historic gold mining settlement now offering eco-tourism experiences including kayaking on the Pieman River.
• Granville Harbour – A remote and beautiful beach accessed via a challenging 4WD track.
• Arthur River – Known as the "Edge of the World," the mouth of the Arthur River faces the longest stretch of ocean uninterrupted by land in the world – the roaring forties winds that blow here have traveled over 15,000km of open ocean since Argentina.

The Tarkine: Australia's Largest Temperate Rainforest

The Tarkine (takayna) in Tasmania's northwest is Australia's largest tract of temperate rainforest and one of the world's significant wilderness areas. This remarkable region encompasses 447,000 hectares of rainforest, wild rivers, mountains, and dramatic coastline.

The Tarkine is of immense ecological importance, containing:

• Rare and endangered species, including the Tasmanian devil and the giant freshwater crayfish
• Australia's largest tract of cool temperate rainforest
• Ancient myrtle-beech forests with trees over 3,000 years old
• Significant Aboriginal heritage, with middens and other sites dating back thousands of years

Exploring the Tarkine

Currently, the Tarkine lacks formal protection as a national park, though conservation groups are campaigning for its protection. Nevertheless, there are several ways to experience this unique wilderness:

• Tarkine Drive – A 205km loop road offering access to rainforest walks, lookouts, and the wild west coast.
• Philosopher Falls – A 1-hour return walk through lush rainforest to a spectacular multi-tiered waterfall.
• Tarkine Forest Adventures – Home to the world's first suspended walkway through a forest canopy, allowing visitors to experience the rainforest from a unique perspective.
• Savage River National Park – Tasmania's largest national park without road access, protecting the heart of the Tarkine wilderness.

Freycinet Peninsula: Where Mountains Meet the Sea

On Tasmania's east coast, the Freycinet Peninsula offers a different kind of wilderness experience – one where pink granite mountains plunge dramatically into turquoise waters, creating some of Australia's most picturesque coastal scenery.

Beyond Wineglass Bay

While most visitors make the pilgrimage to the Wineglass Bay lookout (and some continue down to the beach itself), there are many less-visited areas of Freycinet National Park that offer solitude and spectacular scenery:

• The Hazards Beach Circuit – This 11km loop takes you over the saddle to Wineglass Bay, along the beach, across the isthmus to Hazards Beach, and back along the coast – offering a perfect sample of Freycinet's diverse environments.
• Mt Amos – A challenging 3-hour return scramble up one of the Hazards granite peaks, offering what many consider to be an even better view of Wineglass Bay than the main lookout.
• Freycinet Peninsula Circuit – This 30km multi-day hike circumnavigates the peninsula, accessing remote beaches and campsites inaccessible by vehicle.
• Friendly Beaches – Located in the northern section of the park, these pristine white sand beaches often have far fewer visitors than other areas.

Wildlife Watching

Freycinet is home to abundant wildlife, with regular sightings of wallabies, echidnas, and native birds. The waters around the peninsula are frequented by dolphins, seals, and migrating whales (between May and November).

For a unique experience, take a guided sea kayaking tour around the peninsula, offering the chance to see marine life and access secluded beaches and coves.

Bay of Fires: Wilderness Coast

Named by Captain Tobias Furneaux in 1773 after the Aboriginal fires he saw burning along the coast, the Bay of Fires stretches for 50km from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point in Tasmania's northeast. This coastline is renowned for its extraordinary beauty: pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and distinctive orange-hued granite boulders covered with red lichen.

Wilderness Exploration

The Bay of Fires offers various wilderness experiences:

• Bay of Fires Lodge Walk – A guided four-day walk combining coastal hiking with kayaking on the Ansons River.
• Self-guided exploration – Many beaches and granite headlands can be accessed via short walks from parking areas along the coast.
• Mount William National Park – At the northern end of the Bay of Fires, this park offers camping, hiking, and wildlife watching.
• Snorkeling and diving – The clear waters are perfect for exploring vibrant marine gardens teeming with fish, lobster, and abalone.

The area is also known for its abundant birdlife, with over 100 species recorded. Look for sea eagles, pied oystercatchers, and the endangered hooded plover nesting on the beaches.

Maria Island: A Natural Ark

Off Tasmania's east coast, Maria Island National Park has become a Noah's Ark for Tasmanian wildlife. With no permanent human residents or vehicles, and accessible only by ferry, the island offers a peaceful wilderness experience with an extraordinary concentration of native wildlife.

Wildlife Encounters

The island is home to healthy populations of native wildlife, including:

• Tasmanian devils (introduced as part of a conservation program)
• Forester kangaroos
• Bennett's wallabies
• Wombats (extremely common and often seen during daylight hours)
• Cape Barren geese
• Numerous seabirds and shorebirds

The lack of natural predators on the island means that animals are often remarkably approachable, creating exceptional photography opportunities. However, visitors are reminded to maintain a respectful distance and never feed wildlife.

Exploring the Island

Maria Island can be explored in several ways:

• Day trips – Take the passenger ferry from Triabunna for a day of hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring the historic Darlington convict settlement.
• Camping – Basic camping facilities are available at Darlington, allowing for a longer stay.
• Maria Island Walk – This award-winning guided four-day walk combines wildlife encounters with gourmet Tasmanian food and wine.
• Bishop and Clerk – A challenging 12km return hike to dramatic dolerite columns with spectacular coastal views.
• Painted Cliffs – These remarkable sandstone formations, patterned by iron oxide, are accessible via an easy walk from Darlington.

Practical Information for Wilderness Travelers

When to Visit

Tasmania's wilderness areas can be visited year-round, but each season offers a different experience:

• Summer (December-February) – The most popular time to visit, with warmer temperatures and longer days. Peak season means more visitors and the need to book accommodation well in advance.
• Autumn (March-May) – Often considered the best time to visit, with stable weather, fewer crowds, and the spectacular color of deciduous beech trees in the rainforests.
• Winter (June-August) – Snow covers the mountains, creating breathtaking scenery. Many hiking trails remain accessible with proper equipment, and accommodation is easier to secure.
• Spring (September-November) – Wildflowers bloom across the alpine areas, rivers run full with snowmelt, and newborn wildlife emerges. Weather can be changeable.

Weather Considerations

Tasmania's weather is notoriously changeable, particularly in wilderness areas. It's not uncommon to experience four seasons in one day, even in summer. Always come prepared with:

• Waterproof and windproof outer layers
• Warm layers (including hat and gloves)
• Sun protection (the UV radiation in Tasmania can be deceptively strong)
• A detailed weather forecast and the understanding that conditions can change rapidly

Essential Gear for Wilderness Hiking

For day hikes in Tasmania's wilderness, always carry:

• Topographic map and compass (don't rely solely on electronic devices)
• First aid kit
• Extra food and water
• Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
• Whistle and mirror for emergency signaling
• Fire-starting equipment
• Emergency shelter (at minimum, a space blanket)
• Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for remote areas

For multi-day hikes, additional equipment is essential, including a suitable tent, sleeping bag rated for alpine conditions, and cooking equipment.

Parks Passes

Entry to Tasmania's national parks requires a valid parks pass, which can be purchased online through the Parks & Wildlife Service website, at visitor centers, or at self-registration booths at park entrances. Options include:

• Daily Pass: $40 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• Holiday Pass: $80 per vehicle (valid for 8 weeks)
• Annual Pass: $90 per vehicle
• Two-Year Pass: $132 per vehicle

Revenue from parks passes helps maintain tracks, facilities, and conservation programs.

Conservation Challenges

Tasmania's wilderness areas face several conservation challenges:

• Climate change – Warming temperatures threaten alpine ecosystems and increase fire risks.
• Introduced species – Feral cats, foxes, and other invasive species threaten native wildlife.
• Tourism pressure – Increasing visitor numbers can impact sensitive environments if not properly managed.
• Resource extraction – Ongoing debates about forestry, mining, and hydro-electric development continue to create tension between conservation and economic interests.

Visitors can contribute to conservation efforts by:

• Following Leave No Trace principles
• Supporting conservation organizations
• Participating in citizen science projects such as wildlife monitoring
• Choosing tour operators with strong environmental credentials

Conclusion: The Value of Wilderness

Tasmania's wilderness areas represent something increasingly rare in our modern world – places where natural processes continue largely unhindered by human intervention, where ancient landscapes tell a story of Earth's evolution, and where we can reconnect with something primal and essential in ourselves.

While photographs can capture the beauty of these places, they cannot convey the full sensory experience: the scent of huon pine and leatherwood blossom, the sound of wind through buttongrass plains, the feel of cushion plants underfoot, and the taste of crystal-clear mountain streams.

Whether you come seeking adventure, solitude, wildlife encounters, or simply a deeper connection with nature, Tasmania's wilderness offers transformative experiences that will call you back again and again. As author and conservationist Bob Brown wrote: "Tasmania's wild places can help us remember what it means to be fully human, in conversation with a world beyond our making."