Far removed from Australia's bustling cities and sun-scorched outback lies Tasmania, an island state where time seems to slow and nature reigns supreme. With nearly half of its landmass protected in national parks, reserves, and UNESCO World Heritage wilderness, Tasmania offers one of the last great temperate wilderness areas on Earth. Ancient rainforests, rugged mountains, pristine coastlines, and unique wildlife create an unparalleled destination for nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking solace in untamed landscapes.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore Tasmania's wilderness areas, from iconic national parks to hidden gems, and provide practical advice for experiencing this extraordinary natural wonderland responsibly.
Understanding Tasmania's Natural Heritage
Tasmania is Australia's island state, separated from the mainland by the 240-kilometer Bass Strait. This isolation has fostered the evolution of unique ecosystems and preserved ancient landscapes that have disappeared elsewhere.
The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area covers approximately 1.6 million hectares—about 20% of the entire island—and meets seven out of ten possible criteria for World Heritage listing, a distinction matched by only one other place on Earth. This vast protected region encompasses:
- Some of the last temperate rainforests in the Southern Hemisphere
- Alpine plateaus carved by glaciers during multiple ice ages
- Deep river valleys and pristine lakes
- Coastal ecosystems ranging from sandy beaches to dramatic dolerite sea cliffs
- Habitats for rare and endangered species, including Tasmania's iconic Tasmanian devil
The landscape tells a story spanning hundreds of millions of years, from ancient Gondwanan origins to 40,000+ years of Aboriginal cultural heritage, to more recent European colonization. This complex history is written in the land itself, making Tasmania not just a place of natural beauty but of profound historical significance.
Tasmania's Premier Wilderness Areas
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Perhaps Tasmania's most iconic wilderness destination, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park features some of the island's most dramatic scenery. The jagged dolerite peaks of Cradle Mountain (1,545m) rise from buttongrass plains and reflect in the mirror-like surface of Dove Lake, creating one of Australia's most photographed landscapes.
The park forms the northern end of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and contains:
- Ancient rainforests with myrtle beech trees over 1,000 years old
- Alpine heathlands with unique cushion plants
- Australia's deepest lake—Lake St Clair (200m deep)
- The starting point of the world-famous Overland Track
Must-do experiences:
- Dove Lake Circuit: A 6km, 2-3 hour walk circling the picturesque lake beneath Cradle Mountain, suitable for most fitness levels.
- Marion's Lookout: A more challenging 3-hour return hike offering spectacular views of Cradle Mountain, Dove Lake, and the surrounding landscape.
- The Overland Track: Australia's premier alpine walk—a challenging 65km, six-day trek from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair through stunning alpine scenery. Advance bookings essential during peak season (October-May).
"In the presence of Cradle Mountain's ancient silhouette, you feel both insignificant and connected to something far greater than yourself. Time slows, and priorities shift." — Local wilderness guide
Freycinet National Park
On Tasmania's east coast, Freycinet National Park showcases a different side of the island's wilderness: pristine white beaches, pink granite mountains, and azure waters. The park's crown jewel is Wineglass Bay, consistently rated among the world's top ten beaches for its perfect crescent shape and crystal-clear waters.
The park features:
- The dramatic pink granite peaks of The Hazards mountain range
- Secluded coves and beaches with remarkably clear water
- Diverse coastal habitats from heathlands to sheltered lagoons
- Rich birdlife, including white-bellied sea eagles and swift parrots
Must-do experiences:
- Wineglass Bay Lookout: A moderately challenging 1.5-hour return walk to one of Tasmania's most iconic views.
- Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit: A 4-5 hour loop track that combines mountain views with beach walking.
- Mt Amos: A challenging 3-hour return climb with some rock scrambling, rewarded with the absolute best views of Wineglass Bay.
- Kayaking: Paddle the sheltered waters of the peninsula to spot dolphins, seals, and sea birds from a unique perspective.
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
In Tasmania's rugged west, the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park preserves one of the world's last great wild river systems. This park was at the center of one of Australia's most significant environmental battles in the early 1980s, when plans to dam the Franklin River were successfully opposed through protests, litigation, and ultimately federal intervention.
The park features:
- Pristine rivers flowing through deep gorges and valleys
- Some of the oldest exposed rock formations in Australia
- Vast tracts of cool temperate rainforest with ancient Huon pines, some over 2,000 years old
- Remote wilderness that remains largely untouched by human development
Must-do experiences:
- Franklin River Rafting: A challenging multi-day wilderness rafting expedition through pristine gorges—one of the world's great river journeys.
- Donaghys Hill Lookout Walk: An accessible 40-minute return walk to panoramic views of the Franklin River valley and Frenchmans Cap.
- Franklin River Nature Trail: A easy 25-minute rainforest walk along the banks of the Franklin River.
- Gordon River Cruise: A comfortable way to experience the region's beauty, departing from Strahan and entering the edges of this wild park.
Southwest National Park
Covering nearly 20% of Tasmania, the Southwest National Park is Australia's largest national park and one of the most remote wilderness areas in the country. This vast, largely trackless landscape encompasses everything from coastal beaches to alpine mountains, with much of it accessible only by foot, boat, or light aircraft.
The park features:
- Mountain ranges including the Western Arthurs, with their distinctive jagged peaks
- Pristine lakes including Lake Pedder (now expanded by damming) and Lake Gordon
- Expansive button grass plains that turn golden in summer
- Some of the most remote wilderness in Australia
- Port Davey Marine Reserve, an extraordinarily pristine estuarine system
Must-do experiences:
- Cockle Creek: Australia's southernmost road access point, offering beautiful coastal walks including the South Cape Bay Track (4-hour return).
- Mt Anne Circuit: A challenging 4-5 day hike requiring experience and preparation, but offering some of Tasmania's most spectacular alpine scenery.
- South Coast Track: An epic 85km, 6-8 day wilderness trek along Tasmania's remote southern coastline, requiring good preparation and reasonable fitness.
- Scenic Flight: For those with limited time or hiking ability, scenic flights from Hobart or Cambridge provide breathtaking views of this vast wilderness.
Mount Field National Park
Tasmania's oldest national park (established in 1916), Mount Field showcases incredible diversity within a relatively compact area. Just over an hour from Hobart, the park ranges from temperate rainforest at lower elevations to alpine moorland higher up, with distinct vegetation zones as you ascend.
The park features:
- Spectacular waterfalls, including the three-tiered Russell Falls
- Tall swamp gum forests (Eucalyptus regnans), some of the world's tallest flowering plants
- Alpine lakes and tarns surrounded by snow gums and cushion plants
- Dramatic dolerite columns at the summit of Mount Field
- Seasonal displays including summer wildflowers and autumn fagus (Australia's only native deciduous tree)
Must-do experiences:
- Russell Falls: An easy 20-minute return walk on a wheelchair-accessible track to one of Tasmania's most beautiful waterfalls.
- Tall Trees Circuit: A 30-minute loop among some of the world's tallest hardwood trees, with some specimens over 80 meters tall.
- Tarn Shelf Circuit: A moderate to challenging 4-5 hour alpine walk with spectacular views and glacial lakes, particularly beautiful during autumn when the fagus turns gold and crimson.
- Lake Dobson: A scenic alpine lake accessible by road year-round, with several walking options and cross-country skiing in winter.
Tasmania's Unique Wildlife
Tasmania's isolation has protected many species that have disappeared or become rare on the Australian mainland. The island is a crucial refuge for Australian mammals, with the highest density of native carnivores anywhere in Australia.
Iconic Species
- Tasmanian Devil: This carnivorous marsupial, about the size of a small dog, is found nowhere else in the wild. Once abundant across Tasmania, devils have faced population decline due to a contagious facial tumor disease, making conservation efforts crucial.
- Eastern Quoll: Extinct on the mainland since the 1960s but still relatively common in Tasmania, especially in the central highlands and northeast.
- Platypus: This egg-laying mammal, though not unique to Tasmania, is more frequently observed here than in many mainland areas. Look for them in rivers and streams at dawn and dusk.
- Wombats: Common wombats are frequently spotted in Tasmania's grassy areas, particularly in Cradle Mountain and Maria Island.
- Tasmanian Pademelon: These small, kangaroo-like marsupials are abundant in Tasmania's forests, emerging at dusk to graze.
- Echidna: One of only two egg-laying mammals in the world, echidnas are relatively common throughout Tasmania's natural areas.
Where to See Wildlife
While Tasmania's wilderness offers countless opportunities for wildlife encounters, some locations are particularly rewarding:
- Maria Island National Park: Often called "Tasmania's Noah's Ark," this car-free island sanctuary is home to abundant wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, and Tasmanian devils (introduced as part of a conservation program).
- Mount Field National Park: Particularly good for platypus sightings at dusk around Lake Dobson and the lower rainforest creeks.
- Cradle Mountain: Wombats are commonly seen grazing around Ronny Creek, especially in the late afternoon.
- Narawntapu National Park: Known as the "Serengeti of Tasmania" for its abundance of grazing wildlife, especially at dusk.
- kunanyi/Mount Wellington: Just outside Hobart, the mountain's forests harbor pademelons, wallabies, and occasionally echidnas.
Wildlife viewing tips:
- Dawn and dusk offer the best viewing opportunities for most mammals
- Drive carefully on Tasmanian roads, especially between dusk and dawn when wildlife is most active
- Keep a respectful distance and never feed wild animals
- For guaranteed sightings, consider visiting wildlife parks such as Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary near Hobart, where you can see rescued and rehabilitating native animals
Planning Your Tasmanian Wilderness Adventure
When to Visit
Tasmania experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a different wilderness experience:
- Summer (December-February): The warmest and busiest season, with long daylight hours perfect for extended hikes. Average daytime temperatures range from 17-23°C, though weather remains unpredictable in alpine areas.
- Autumn (March-May): Often considered the most stable weather season, with crisp days, fewer crowds, and spectacular foliage as the native fagus turns gold in late April/early May.
- Winter (June-August): Cold and often snowy in the highlands, with average daytime temperatures between 3-11°C. Alpine areas are transformed into winter wonderlands, and the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers region experiences its highest rainfall.
- Spring (September-November): A season of contrasts with unpredictable weather, but rewarded with wildflower displays, flowing waterfalls, and fewer visitors than summer.
Getting Around
Tasmania's wilderness areas are spread across the island, and most visitors will need a vehicle to explore effectively:
- Car Rental: Available at Hobart and Launceston airports and in major towns. A conventional vehicle is sufficient for most popular destinations, though some remote areas require 4WD.
- Guided Tours: Numerous operators offer day and multi-day guided experiences, ranging from comfortable coaches to specialized wilderness expeditions.
- Public Transport: Limited in rural areas, though Tassielink Transit connects major towns and some national parks.
- Walking: For the truly adventurous, Tasmania offers the 480km Tasmanian Trail from Devonport to Dover, traversing the island from north to south.
Essential Gear
Tasmania's weather is notoriously changeable, making appropriate preparation essential:
- Clothing: Layer system including thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof/windproof outer layers, even in summer.
- Footwear: Quality, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support for most walks.
- Sun Protection: Tasmania's UV levels can be extremely high, especially in alpine areas, despite cool temperatures.
- Navigation: Maps, compass, and/or GPS device. Mobile coverage is limited or non-existent in many wilderness areas.
- Water and Food: Always carry more than you think you'll need, even on short walks.
- First Aid Kit: Including snake bite bandages for longer or more remote walks.
Responsible Wilderness Travel
Tasmania's wilderness has remained pristine because of careful management and visitor respect. Help preserve these extraordinary places by:
- Staying on Marked Tracks: This protects sensitive vegetation and prevents erosion.
- Following the Leave No Trace Principles: Pack out all waste, including food scraps and toilet paper.
- Using Established Campsites: Where camping is permitted, use designated sites to minimize impact.
- Respecting Wildlife: Observe from a distance and never feed wild animals.
- Checking for Biosecurity Requirements: Some areas require boot cleaning to prevent the spread of plant diseases.
- Obtaining Necessary Permits: The Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service requires permits for some activities, including camping in certain areas and undertaking the Overland Track during peak season.
- Registering Your Walks: Use the logbooks at track entrances, especially for longer or more remote hikes.
Conservation Challenges and Successes
Tasmania's wilderness, while protected, faces ongoing challenges that visitors should be aware of:
Current Challenges
- Climate Change: Altering fire regimes, threatening alpine species with narrowing habitat ranges, and increasing vulnerability to invasive species.
- Tasmanian Devil Facial Tumor Disease: A contagious cancer that has decimated wild devil populations, though recent evidence suggests some devils are developing resistance.
- Tourism Pressure: Increasing visitor numbers in popular areas require careful management to prevent environmental degradation.
- Invasive Species: Including feral cats, which threaten native wildlife, and plant pathogens like Phytophthora cinnamomi that attack native vegetation.
Conservation Success Stories
Tasmania also offers inspiring examples of conservation success:
- Franklin River Protection: The successful campaign to stop the damming of the Franklin River in the 1980s was a watershed moment for Australian environmentalism.
- Tasmanian Devil Insurance Population: An innovative program maintaining disease-free devil populations to ensure the species' survival.
- Ecological Restoration: Projects like the rehabilitation of former logging areas into thriving native forests.
- Indigenous Management: Increasing recognition of Aboriginal cultural heritage and knowledge in wilderness management.
Accommodation Options
Tasmania offers accommodation options ranging from rustic to luxurious, with something for every preference and budget:
Wilderness Lodges
For those seeking comfort amid nature, Tasmania offers several exceptional wilderness lodges:
- Cradle Mountain Lodge: Award-winning accommodation at the edge of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
- Freycinet Lodge: Nestled in coastal bushland within Freycinet National Park.
- Thousand Lakes Lodge: A remote highland retreat in the Central Plateau Conservation Area.
- Bay of Fires Lodge: Accessible only by foot along the Bay of Fires Lodge Walk, this eco-lodge offers sustainable luxury in a remote coastal setting.
Camping and Huts
For more budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a closer connection to nature:
- National Park Campgrounds: Range from basic to well-equipped, often requiring advance booking in popular areas.
- Hut Systems: The Overland Track features a network of public huts, though carrying a tent is still recommended.
- Private Wilderness Campsites: Including farm stays and eco-camping options on private land adjacent to wilderness areas.
Conclusion: The Enduring Value of Wilderness
In an increasingly developed world, Tasmania's wilderness areas represent something precious—landscapes where natural processes continue largely uninterrupted, where ancient trees still grow, where clean rivers flow freely, and where native wildlife thrives. These wild places offer not just spectacular scenery and outdoor recreation, but something deeper: a chance to reconnect with the natural world and experience its restorative power.
For visitors from Australia and around the world, Tasmania's wilderness provides perspective and inspiration. Walking beneath thousand-year-old trees or standing on a mountain summit looking across untouched valleys helps us understand our place in the greater natural system and the importance of preserving these extraordinary places.
As you plan your Tasmanian wilderness adventure, remember that these landscapes have evolved over millions of years and been cared for by Aboriginal Tasmanians for tens of thousands of years. Visit with respect, tread lightly, and take the time to truly experience the island's wild heart. In return, Tasmania's wilderness will offer experiences and memories that remain with you long after you've returned home.