Tasmania Wilderness Exploration: Australia's Island Paradise

Tasmania: Australia's Wild Island State

Separated from mainland Australia by the 240-kilometer expanse of Bass Strait, Tasmania is a land apart—both geographically and in character. Australia's island state is renowned for its pristine wilderness, dramatic landscapes, rich history, and distinctive culture that sets it apart from the rest of the country.

With nearly 45% of its territory protected in national parks and reserves, including areas designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Tasmania offers some of the most untouched natural environments found anywhere on Earth. From ancient rainforests to alpine peaks, wild coastlines to serene lakes, the diversity of landscapes packed into this relatively small island is truly remarkable.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the wild beauty of Tasmania, highlight its most spectacular wilderness areas, and provide practical advice for those seeking to experience the island's natural wonders.

The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Covering approximately 1.6 million hectares (nearly 20% of Tasmania), the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWWHA) represents one of the last true wilderness regions on the planet. It meets 7 out of 10 criteria for World Heritage listing—a rare distinction shared by only two other places globally.

This vast protected area encompasses six major national parks and numerous conservation areas, including:

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Perhaps Tasmania's most iconic wilderness destination, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park features dramatic alpine scenery dominated by the jagged profile of Cradle Mountain itself. The park's diverse landscapes range from button grass moorlands to ancient rainforests and glacier-carved valleys.

Key experiences include:

• Dove Lake Circuit: This 6-kilometer loop offers spectacular views of Cradle Mountain reflected in the still waters of Dove Lake. The well-maintained track passes through cool temperate rainforest and provides excellent photography opportunities.
• Overland Track: One of Australia's premier multi-day hikes, this 65-kilometer trail between Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair typically takes 6 days to complete. It traverses varied alpine terrain, with side trips to summits including Cradle Mountain and Mount Ossa (Tasmania's highest peak).
• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to numerous native species including wombats, wallabies, platypus, and Tasmanian devils. Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities around Ronny Creek and Waldheim areas.

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

This park protects some of Tasmania's most pristine river systems, which cut through deep gorges and ancient rainforests. The area became famous during the environmental battles of the early 1980s to prevent the damming of the Franklin River.

Highlights include:

• Franklin River Rafting: A wilderness rafting expedition down the Franklin River is considered one of the world's great adventure experiences. These guided journeys typically take 7-10 days and traverse remote, pristine wilderness with no road access.
• Frenchmans Cap: This distinctive white quartzite peak rises to 1,446 meters and is the focus of a challenging multi-day hike through varied wilderness terrain.
• Donaghys Lookout Walk: For those seeking a less strenuous experience, this 40-minute return walk offers panoramic views of the Franklin River valley and surrounding mountains.

Southwest National Park

Tasmania's largest national park covers over 600,000 hectares of remote, rugged wilderness. Much of it is accessible only by foot, boat, or light aircraft, making it one of Australia's last true frontier regions.

Key experiences include:

• South Coast Track: This challenging 85-kilometer wilderness trail traverses some of Australia's wildest coastline and takes approximately 6-8 days to complete.
• Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour: This remote marine reserve features water stained the color of tea by natural tannins, creating a unique ecosystem where normally deep-dwelling marine species can be found in shallow waters. Accessible by boat or light aircraft.
• Mount Anne Circuit: A demanding 4-5 day alpine hike that takes in spectacular mountain scenery, including Tasmania's fourth-highest peak.

Walls of Jerusalem National Park

This alpine national park features a landscape of dolerite peaks, glacial tarns, and ancient pencil pine forests. Unlike many of Tasmania's parks, there are no roads within the Walls of Jerusalem, ensuring a true wilderness experience for those willing to hike in.

The park's biblical place names (such as Damascus Gate, Solomon's Throne, and King David's Peak) were bestowed by an early surveyor struck by the area's majesty. The central plateau area, with its cluster of dolerite peaks surrounding a highland basin, forms the "Walls" that give the park its name.

The standard route involves a steep 1.5-hour climb to Dixon's Kingdom, which serves as a base camp for further exploration of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Alpine huts provide emergency shelter, but camping is the primary accommodation option.

Beyond the World Heritage Area: More Wilderness Highlights

While the TWWHA encompasses Tasmania's largest wilderness areas, many other reserves and national parks offer exceptional natural experiences:

Freycinet National Park

Located on Tasmania's east coast, Freycinet features a dramatic landscape of pink granite mountains, white sandy beaches, and azure bays. Wineglass Bay, with its perfect crescent of white sand, is regularly rated among the world's most beautiful beaches.

Key experiences include:

• Wineglass Bay Lookout: A moderately steep 1.5-hour return walk provides the classic postcard view over Wineglass Bay.
• Hazards Beach Circuit: This 11-kilometer loop takes in both Wineglass Bay and the more secluded Hazards Beach, offering diverse coastal scenery.
• Mount Amos: A challenging scramble up this granite peak rewards hikers with panoramic views over the entire peninsula.
• Sea Kayaking: Guided kayak tours explore the sheltered waters of the peninsula, often encountering dolphins, sea eagles, and other marine wildlife.

Mount Field National Park

Tasmania's first national park (established in 1916) showcases the island's remarkable altitudinal vegetation zones—from temperate rainforest at lower elevations to alpine moorland at higher altitudes.

The park is home to Russell Falls, one of Tasmania's most photographed waterfalls, as well as some of the world's tallest flowering plants—swamp gums (Eucalyptus regnans) reaching heights of over 80 meters.

Visitors can enjoy short walks to multiple waterfalls, explore the Tall Trees walk among giant eucalypts, or venture to the alpine area around Lake Dobson, which transforms into a small ski field during winter.

Maria Island National Park

This island sanctuary off Tasmania's east coast combines remarkable natural features with significant historical sites. Accessible only by ferry, Maria Island has no permanent human residents, no vehicles, and no shops—just wilderness, wildlife, and the remnants of Tasmania's convict past.

The island is renowned for its abundant wildlife—including Tasmanian devils introduced as part of a conservation program—dramatic coastal cliffs known as the Painted Cliffs, and the historic settlement of Darlington, which served as a convict probation station in the 1840s.

Walking options range from short strolls around Darlington to multi-day explorations of the entire island. Basic bunk accommodation is available in the old penitentiary building, or visitors can camp at designated sites.

Tasmania's Unique Wildlife

Tasmania's long isolation from mainland Australia has allowed unique species to evolve and preserved others that have disappeared elsewhere. The island state offers some of Australia's best wildlife viewing opportunities:

Tasmanian Devils

These iconic marsupial carnivores are found only in Tasmania, having disappeared from mainland Australia thousands of years ago. Devils are increasingly rare in the wild due to the impact of Devil Facial Tumour Disease, a contagious cancer that has devastated wild populations.

Conservation sanctuaries such as Devils @ Cradle near Cradle Mountain and the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo on the Tasman Peninsula offer opportunities to see these fascinating creatures and learn about conservation efforts.

Endemic Species

Tasmania is home to 12 bird species found nowhere else, including the endangered Forty-spotted Pardalote and the charismatic Yellow Wattlebird. Other endemic wildlife includes the Tasmanian Pademelon (a small wallaby), Eastern Quoll (extinct on the mainland), and several invertebrate species including the Giant Freshwater Crayfish—the world's largest freshwater invertebrate.

Marine Wildlife

Tasmania's waters support a remarkable diversity of marine life, including colonies of Australian Fur Seals, resident dolphins, migrating whales (primarily Southern Right, Humpback, and Orcas), and unusual species like the Weedy Sea Dragon. The east coast, particularly around Bicheno and Eaglehawk Neck, offers excellent marine wildlife viewing opportunities.

Wilderness Experiences and Activities

Tasmania offers wilderness experiences to suit all interests, fitness levels, and time constraints:

Hiking

From gentle nature walks to epic multi-day treks, Tasmania offers over 2,800 kilometers of walking tracks. Beyond the iconic routes already mentioned, notable options include:

• Three Capes Track: This premium 48-kilometer track on the Tasman Peninsula features architect-designed huts and dramatic coastal scenery including some of Australia's highest sea cliffs.
• Walls of Jerusalem Circuit: A challenging 3-4 day alpine hike through the heart of the Central Plateau.
• Maria Island Walk: A guided 4-day experience combining wildlife, history, and beautiful beaches with comfortable accommodation and gourmet food.
• Tarkine Trails: Various routes through Australia's largest tract of cool temperate rainforest in the island's remote northwest.

Water-Based Adventures

Tasmania's rivers, lakes, and coastal waters provide settings for numerous wilderness activities:

• White Water Rafting: Beyond the famous Franklin, rivers like the Picton and King offer exciting rafting adventures ranging from gentle to wild.
• Sea Kayaking: Explore the sheltered waterways of the east coast, the remote southwest, or the dramatic Tasman Peninsula by paddle power.
• Cruises: Boat cruises on Macquarie Harbour, the Gordon River, and Bathurst Harbour provide access to otherwise remote wilderness areas.
• Fishing: Tasmania's pristine lakes and rivers are renowned for trout fishing, while coastal areas offer excellent saltwater angling.

Scenic Flights

Due to the remoteness of much of Tasmania's wilderness, scenic flights provide a unique perspective and access to areas that would take days to reach on foot. Flights operate from Hobart, Cambridge, Strahan, and other locations, with options ranging from short scenic loops to full-day adventures with wilderness landings.

Winter Experiences

Tasmania's alpine areas receive regular winter snowfall, enabling unique cold-weather wilderness experiences:

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Small ski fields operate at Ben Lomond and Mount Field when conditions permit.
• Winter Hiking: With proper equipment and experience, winter brings a magical dimension to Tasmania's mountains, with frozen lakes and snow-covered landscapes.
• Aurora Viewing: Tasmania's southern location makes it one of the best places in Australia to view the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) during winter months.

Wilderness Accommodation

Tasmania offers wilderness lodging options ranging from basic to luxurious:

Wilderness Lodges

Several extraordinary lodges provide immersion in nature with premium comforts:

• Cradle Mountain Lodge: Located at the edge of the World Heritage Area with accommodations ranging from contemporary cabins to luxurious suites.
• Saffire Freycinet: An ultra-luxury property overlooking the Hazards mountains with an emphasis on local food and customized experiences.
• Thousand Lakes Lodge: A converted Antarctic training facility in the Central Highlands, providing access to alpine wilderness.

Wilderness Camping

Tasmania offers numerous designated camping areas within its parks and reserves. Some require permits or bookings, particularly in popular areas during peak season. The Parks and Wildlife Service maintains basic hut systems in some remote areas, providing emergency shelter for hikers.

For those seeking solitude, walk-in camping sites in more remote parks often provide a true wilderness experience with minimal facilities. Leave No Trace principles should always be followed to preserve these pristine environments.

Practical Information for Wilderness Travelers

Weather and Seasonality

Tasmania's weather is notoriously changeable, particularly in alpine areas where conditions can shift rapidly. The island's wilderness is accessible year-round, but each season offers different experiences:

• Summer (December-February): Peak hiking season with longer days and milder temperatures, though snow can still occur at higher elevations even in summer. This is the busiest period, requiring advance bookings for popular tracks and accommodation.
• Autumn (March-May): Often provides stable weather with fewer visitors. The turning of the deciduous beech (fagus) in late April/early May creates a spectacular display of autumn color in certain alpine areas.
• Winter (June-August): Alpine areas receive regular snowfall, while lowland areas experience cold, often clear days. Many facilities operate on reduced schedules, but this is an excellent time for photography and wildlife viewing.
• Spring (September-November): Variable conditions with frequent rainfall nourish spectacular wildflower displays, particularly in alpine areas. Rivers run high, making waterfall viewing spectacular but some river crossings challenging.

Safety Considerations

Tasmania's wilderness areas demand respect and preparation:

• Weather Preparation: Always check forecasts before departure and pack clothing suitable for all conditions, regardless of season. Hypothermia is a year-round risk in Tasmania's highlands.
• Navigation: Carry detailed maps and a compass, and know how to use them. GPS and phone coverage is limited or non-existent in many wilderness areas.
• Communication: Personal locator beacons (PLBs) are highly recommended for remote travel. Satellite phones can be rented in major centers.
• Intentions: Always register your hiking plans using the logbooks at track entries, and advise someone reliable of your itinerary and expected return.
• Water: While most Tasmanian streams provide clean water, treatment is recommended, particularly in popular areas.

Access and Transport

Tasmania is accessible by air to Hobart and Launceston, or by ferry (Spirit of Tasmania) from Melbourne to Devonport. Within Tasmania, a rental vehicle provides the most flexibility for wilderness access, as public transport to remote areas is limited.

Many wilderness areas have limited or seasonal road access—some requiring 4WD vehicles, particularly during winter and after heavy rainfall. The Western Explorer Road and Strahan-Queenstown Road are among Tasmania's most scenic wilderness drives.

Conservation and Etiquette

Tasmania's wilderness is preserved through strict conservation measures, and visitors play a crucial role in its protection:

• Follow Leave No Trace principles—pack out all waste, stay on marked trails, and minimize campfire impacts.
• Respect wildlife by maintaining distance and never feeding animals.
• Prevent the spread of plant diseases like root rot fungus by using boot cleaning stations at trailheads.
• Obtain necessary permits for activities including fishing, camping in certain areas, and multi-day hikes during peak season.

Cultural Context of the Tasmanian Wilderness

Tasmania's wilderness areas are not just natural spaces but cultural landscapes with deep human connections:

Aboriginal Heritage

Tasmania's Aboriginal people have maintained continuous connection with the island for over 40,000 years. The landscape contains countless sites of cultural significance, including cave paintings, middens, and living areas. The Aboriginal presence and management practices have shaped Tasmania's environment over millennia.

Today, programs like the wukalina Walk in the Bay of Fires region offer opportunities to experience the landscape through Aboriginal perspectives, guided by palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal) rangers.

Conservation History

Tasmania has been the site of pivotal environmental campaigns that shaped Australia's conservation movement. The successful fight to save Lake Pedder in the 1970s and the Franklin River in the 1980s helped establish the political influence of environmental activism nationally.

This legacy continues with ongoing debates about the balance between resource extraction and wilderness preservation, making Tasmania a living case study in conservation politics.

Planning Your Tasmanian Wilderness Adventure

At Ammalarcai Travel, we specialize in creating meaningful Tasmanian wilderness experiences tailored to your interests, fitness level, and available time. Our expertise helps you navigate seasonal considerations, accommodation options, and logistical challenges to create your perfect wilderness journey.

Whether you're seeking an adventurous multi-day trek, a luxury lodge experience with guided excursions, or a self-drive tour connecting Tasmania's diverse wilderness regions, we can craft an itinerary that showcases the best of Australia's island paradise.

Tasmania offers a rare opportunity to experience pristine natural environments that have remained largely unchanged for millennia. Its compact size belies the incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences available—from ancient rainforests to alpine peaks, wild coastlines to serene lakes, all accessible within a relatively small area.

This combination of accessibility and wilderness authenticity makes Tasmania a truly unique destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the natural environment.