Tasmania may be Australia's smallest state, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in natural grandeur. Separated from mainland Australia by the 240-kilometer stretch of the Bass Strait, this heart-shaped island is a wilderness lover's paradise – a place where ancient rainforests cloak mountain ranges, pristine beaches stretch for kilometers without another footprint in sight, and wildlife extinct elsewhere still thrives in protected habitats.
As a guide who has led countless tours through Tasmania's wild places, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power this island has on travelers. There's something about Tasmania's untamed landscapes that speaks to the soul – perhaps it's the clean air (scientifically measured as some of the world's purest), the absence of light pollution revealing spectacular night skies, or simply the profound sense of being immersed in nature largely unchanged for millennia.
This comprehensive guide draws on my experience to help you plan your own Tasmanian wilderness journey – from iconic national parks to hidden gems, wildlife encounters to guided treks, and practical tips to help you experience the island's natural wonders responsibly and authentically.
Understanding Tasmania's Wilderness Heritage
Tasmania's extraordinary wilderness is the product of a unique geological history, isolation, and a modern conservation ethos that has preserved much of the island in its natural state.
A Land of Ancient Origins
Tasmania's landscape has been shaped over hundreds of millions of years. The dolerite mountains that form its distinctive skyline were created around 180 million years ago when Australia was still part of the supercontinent Gondwana. As the continents drifted apart, Tasmania was periodically connected to and separated from mainland Australia, creating unique evolutionary conditions that fostered distinctive ecosystems.
The island's isolation has preserved ancient Gondwanan plant species like the Huon pine (some specimens are over 3,000 years old), King Billy pine, and myrtle beech – living relics from when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. These trees form the backbone of Tasmania's temperate rainforests, some of the oldest forest ecosystems on the planet.
Tasmania's Conservation Story
Today, approximately 42% of Tasmania is protected in national parks and reserves – an extraordinary achievement that stemmed from one of Australia's most significant environmental campaigns. The battle to save the Franklin River from damming in the early 1980s marked a turning point in Australian conservation history and catapulted Tasmania's wilderness onto the world stage.
The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area now protects over 1.5 million hectares of pristine wilderness, encompassing diverse ecosystems from alpine plateaus to temperate rainforests, wild rivers, and coastal heathlands. This contiguous protected area represents one of the last great temperate wilderness regions on Earth.
Tasmania Wilderness Quick Facts
- The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area covers approximately 20% of the island
- Tasmania has over 2,000 km of walking tracks and 18 national parks
- The island is home to Australia's deepest lake (Lake St Clair, 160m deep)
- Some Huon pine trees in Tasmania are over 3,000 years old
- Tasmania is the last refuge for many animal species extinct or endangered on the mainland, including the Tasmanian devil
Tasmania's Unmissable Wilderness Regions
Each of Tasmania's wilderness areas offers a distinctive landscape and unique experiences. Here's a guide to the island's most spectacular natural regions:
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
The jewel in Tasmania's wilderness crown, this park encompasses rugged mountain peaks, ancient rainforests, alpine heathlands, and glacial lakes. The iconic Cradle Mountain, with its distinctive jagged profile reflected in the mirror-like surface of Dove Lake, is one of Australia's most photographed natural features.
Highlights include:
- Dove Lake Circuit – A 6 km track that offers magnificent views of Cradle Mountain and passes through cool temperate rainforest
- Marion's Lookout – A more challenging walk that rewards with panoramic alpine views
- The Overland Track – Australia's premier alpine walk, a 65 km, six-day journey from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair
- Enchanted Walk – A family-friendly short track through mystical moss-covered rainforest
- Wildlife spotting – The park is a prime location to see wombats, Tasmanian devils, platypus, and echidnas
The Overland Track: Tasmania's Premier Trek
This iconic 65 km journey traverses some of the finest mountain scenery in Australia, passing through diverse environments from rainforest to alpine plateaus. The standard route takes six days, but side trips to mountain summits or hidden lakes can extend the experience.
Note: During the peak season (October 1 - May 31), the track must be walked north to south, and bookings are essential through the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service. In winter, the track can be walked in either direction, but winter hiking requires advanced alpine skills and equipment.
Freycinet National Park
On Tasmania's east coast, Freycinet National Park offers a striking contrast to the island's mountainous interior. Here, pink granite mountains known as The Hazards plunge dramatically into the crystal-clear waters of the Tasman Sea, pristine white beaches curve in perfect crescents, and coastal heathlands burst with colorful wildflowers in spring.
Don't miss:
- Wineglass Bay Lookout – A moderate 1.5-hour return walk to one of Australia's most photographed views
- Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit – A 5-hour loop that combines mountain scenery with two stunning beaches
- Mount Amos – A challenging scramble up exposed granite that rewards with panoramic views of Wineglass Bay
- Friendly Beaches – Spectacular, uncrowded white sand beaches stretching for kilometers
- Sleepy Bay and Little Gravelly Beach – Secluded coves with fascinating rock formations
Southwest National Park
Tasmania's largest national park encompasses over 600,000 hectares of untamed wilderness – a vast, rugged landscape of mountain ranges, wild rivers, temperate rainforests, and coastline battered by the Roaring Forties winds. This is Tasmania at its most remote and challenging, with much of the park accessible only by foot, boat, or light aircraft.
Key experiences include:
- South Coast Track – A challenging 85 km, 6-8 day wilderness trek along one of Australia's wildest coastlines
- Port Davey Track – A 70 km wilderness walk through the heart of the Southwest
- Melaleuca to Cockle Creek – The southernmost point of Australia accessible by road
- Gordon River Cruise – A more accessible way to experience the Southwest, departing from Strahan and traveling up the pristine Gordon River
- Bathurst Harbour – A remote, pristine waterway twice the size of Sydney Harbour
Remote Wilderness Safety
The Southwest is true wilderness with changeable weather and limited facilities. If hiking in this region:
- Register your trip with the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service
- Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB)
- Be prepared for all weather conditions, even in summer
- Have appropriate navigation skills and equipment
- Consider joining a guided trek if you lack wilderness experience
Mount Field National Park
One of Tasmania's oldest and most accessible national parks, Mount Field offers a diverse range of environments within a relatively compact area. Just over an hour's drive from Hobart, the park transitions from tall swamp gum forests (some of the tallest flowering plants on earth) in the lower reaches to alpine moorland at higher elevations.
Highlights include:
- Russell Falls – An easily accessible and spectacular tiered waterfall surrounded by ferns and towering eucalypts
- Tall Trees Walk – A short circuit featuring some of the world's tallest hardwood trees
- Lake Dobson – A picturesque subalpine lake surrounded by snow gums and alpine vegetation
- Tarn Shelf Circuit – A stunning day walk across an alpine plateau dotted with glacial tarns
- Pandani Grove – The world's tallest heath plants create an otherworldly landscape around Lake Dobson
Tarkine (takayna)
In Tasmania's remote northwest lies one of the world's great temperate rainforests – the Tarkine. This vast wilderness area encompasses Australia's largest tract of cool temperate rainforest, wild rivers, mountains, and a rugged coastline. The region is of profound cultural significance to Tasmanian Aboriginal people, containing one of the world's great archaeological treasures – thousands of years of Aboriginal heritage expressed in middens, hut depressions, and rock engravings.
Key experiences include:
- Tarkine Drive – A 205 km scenic loop road providing access to rainforest walks, sinkholes, and coastal scenery
- Philosophers Falls – A peaceful walk through pristine rainforest to a hidden waterfall
- Edge of the World – The dramatic meeting point of the Southern Ocean and the Tarkine coast at Arthur River
- Savage River – Ancient rainforest walks alongside this pristine river
- Guided Aboriginal cultural tours – Learn about the deep cultural connections of the palawa people to this landscape
Tasmania's Unique Wildlife
Tasmania's isolation has created a refuge for many species that have become extinct or threatened on mainland Australia. The island's diverse ecosystems support an extraordinary array of wildlife, from the iconic Tasmanian devil to the elusive platypus.
Iconic Tasmanian Species
- Tasmanian Devil - Australia's largest surviving carnivorous marsupial, known for its distinctive screech and powerful jaws
- Wombat - Commonly spotted in alpine areas, particularly around Cradle Mountain
- Platypus - These egg-laying mammals can be seen in many Tasmanian waterways, particularly at dusk
- Pademelon - A small, stocky marsupial similar to a wallaby, common in forest edges
- Eastern Quoll - Extinct on the mainland but still found in Tasmania, these spotted marsupials are active at night
- Spotted-tail Quoll - Australia's largest carnivorous marsupial after the Tasmanian devil
- Little Penguin - The world's smallest penguin species returns to coastal burrows at dusk
Best Wildlife Viewing Locations
While wildlife can be encountered throughout Tasmania, these locations offer particularly good opportunities:
- Maria Island - Often described as a Noah's Ark for Tasmanian wildlife, this car-free national park is home to abundant wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, and birds
- Cradle Mountain - Excellent for viewing wombats, particularly around Ronny Creek, and occasionally Tasmanian devils and quolls
- Mount Field National Park - Good for spotting platypus at dusk in the lakes and streams
- narawntapu National Park - Known as "Tasmania's Serengeti" for its abundance of grazing wildlife at dawn and dusk
- Bruny Island - Home to a colony of Little Penguins and rare white wallabies
- Binalong Bay - The forests behind the beaches are good for spotting echidnas
Supporting Tasmanian Devil Conservation
Tasmanian devils have faced a crisis since the 1990s due to Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD), a rare contagious cancer that has decimated wild populations. Visitors can support conservation efforts by:
- Driving carefully, especially at dawn and dusk, as vehicle strikes are a major threat
- Visiting sanctuaries like Bonorong, Devils@Cradle, or the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo that contribute to breeding and research programs
- Donating to the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program
- Reporting sightings of healthy devils to the Parks and Wildlife Service
Guided Wilderness Experiences
While independent exploration allows flexibility, guided experiences offer deeper insights into Tasmania's wilderness through the knowledge of expert guides. These range from luxury multi-day walks to specialized wildlife tours:
Signature Walking Experiences
Tasmania pioneered the concept of guided wilderness walks with comfortable accommodations and gourmet meals. These award-winning experiences combine immersion in remote landscapes with creature comforts:
- Maria Island Walk - A four-day journey combining wildlife encounters, pristine beaches, and convict history, with accommodation in permanent wilderness camps and a historic homestead
- Bay of Fires Lodge Walk - Walk along white-sand beaches and rocky headlands in Tasmania's northeast, staying at a secluded eco-lodge
- Cradle Mountain Huts Walk - Experience the famous Overland Track with the comfort of private hut accommodation and chef-prepared meals
- Three Capes Track - A self-guided but fully supported walk along Tasmania's dramatic southeastern coast, with architect-designed public huts
- Walls of Jerusalem Experience - Access one of Tasmania's more remote alpine areas with expert guides
Wildlife Tours
Specialized wildlife tours maximize opportunities to see Tasmania's unique animals:
- Devil Watching - Nighttime guided experiences to observe Tasmanian devils in the wild
- Platypus Tours - Guided twilight walks to spot these elusive monotremes
- Penguin Tours - Evening tours to watch Little Penguins returning to their burrows
- Whale Watching - Seasonal boat tours (May-July and September-November) to observe migrating humpback and southern right whales
- Birdwatching Tours - Tasmania is home to 12 endemic bird species found nowhere else
Water-Based Wilderness
Some of Tasmania's most spectacular wilderness is best accessed by water:
- Gordon River Cruises - Journey into the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area from Strahan
- Tasman Island Cruises - Experience the dramatic sea cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula, with abundant marine wildlife
- Bathurst Harbour by Boat - Expeditions into one of Australia's most remote and pristine waterways in the Southwest
- Freycinet Kayaking - Paddle the clear waters of the Freycinet Peninsula, accessing secluded coves and beaches
- Franklin River Rafting - Multi-day white-water rafting adventures through pristine wilderness
Franklin River: The Wild Heart of Tasmania
Running through the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the Franklin River represents wilderness in its purest form. The river's successful protection from damming in the 1980s was a pivotal moment in Australian environmental history.
A rafting expedition down the Franklin is considered one of the world's great wilderness experiences – a 5-10 day journey through pristine temperate rainforest, spectacular gorges, and rapids with evocative names like "The Cauldron" and "Thunderrush." With no roads, trails, or signs of civilization along its length, the Franklin offers a profound connection with untamed nature that few experiences can match.
Due to the river's remoteness and challenging conditions, joining a guided expedition with experienced operators like Water By Nature or Franklin River Rafting is essential for all but the most experienced wilderness paddlers.
Seasonal Wilderness Experiences
Tasmania's wilderness offers distinct experiences across the seasons, each with its own character and attractions:
Summer (December-February)
The peak season for wilderness exploration brings generally stable weather and abundant wildlife:
- The best time for multi-day hiking, with long daylight hours and alpine wildflowers in bloom
- Perfect conditions for swimming at Tasmania's stunning beaches
- Average temperatures range from 17-23°C (63-73°F), though alpine areas can be much cooler
- Wildlife is highly active, with young marsupials often visible with their mothers
- Popular areas and tracks can be crowded, and accommodation requires advance booking
Autumn (March-May)
Many locals consider autumn the perfect season to experience Tasmania's wilderness:
- Stable weather with crisp, clear days and fewer crowds than summer
- The spectacular "turning of the fagus" in late April/early May, when Australia's only native deciduous tree turns vibrant gold and russet
- Excellent hiking conditions, with cooler temperatures but still reasonable daylight hours
- The best season for fungi enthusiasts, with an extraordinary diversity of colorful specimens in the rainforests
- Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) viewing chances increase in late autumn
Winter (June-August)
While challenging, winter offers unique wilderness experiences:
- Snow-covered alpine landscapes create magical scenery, particularly at Cradle Mountain, Mount Field, and the Central Plateau
- The clearest night skies for stargazing and potential Aurora Australis sightings
- Waterfalls and rivers at their most spectacular after winter rains
- Much lower visitor numbers, even at popular sites
- Winter wildlife sightings, including playful young Tasmanian devils
- Requires proper preparation, with warm, waterproof clothing and sometimes specialized equipment
Spring (September-November)
A season of renewal and abundant birdlife:
- Spectacular wildflower displays in coastal heath and alpine regions
- Peak time for birdwatching, with migratory species arriving and resident birds in breeding plumage
- Increasing daylight hours but fewer visitors than summer
- Rivers at high flow, making waterfalls particularly impressive
- Weather can be changeable, with "four seasons in one day" common
"In Tasmania, you haven't truly experienced the island until you've embraced its wild weather. Some of my most memorable wilderness moments have been in mist-shrouded mountains or watching storms roll in across wild beaches. Don't just wait for perfect weather – Tasmania's wild side is part of its magic."
Wilderness Photography in Tasmania
Tasmania offers extraordinary opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography, with dramatic lighting, pristine environments, and unique subjects. Here are some tips for capturing the island's wilderness:
Iconic Photography Locations
- Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake - The classic reflection shot is best in early morning when the lake is calm
- Wineglass Bay - The lookout provides the famous view, but the beach itself offers gorgeous compositions, especially at sunrise
- Bay of Fires - The orange lichen-covered granite boulders against turquoise water are spectacular at dawn and dusk
- The Tarkine - Ancient rainforest offers mystical scenes, especially in misty conditions
- Mount Field - Waterfalls framed by ferns and tall trees, particularly photogenic after rain
- Painted Cliffs, Maria Island - Sandstone formations with incredible patterns are best photographed in late afternoon light
Photography Tips
- The famous "Roaring Forties" winds mean a sturdy tripod is essential for landscape photography
- Tasmania's clear air creates distinctive light quality – the golden hours at dawn and dusk are particularly magical
- Pack weather protection for your gear – conditions can change rapidly
- Night photography opportunities are exceptional due to minimal light pollution – the Milky Way over landmarks like the Hazards or Cradle Mountain creates stunning images
- For wildlife photography, patience and a telephoto lens are key – approach animals slowly and use a hide where possible
- Consider specialized photography tours that take you to prime locations at the optimal time of day and season
Practical Wilderness Tips
Weather and Packing
Tasmania's weather is famously changeable – preparing properly is essential:
- The golden rule: pack for all seasons, regardless of when you visit
- Use the layering system – thermal base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof/windproof outer layer
- Quality rainwear is essential year-round – even in summer, alpine areas can receive snow
- UV protection is crucial – Tasmania's clear air means sunburn can occur even on cooler days
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support are recommended for most walking tracks
- A beanie (wool hat), gloves, and warm jacket should be carried even for summer alpine walks
- For multi-day walks, lightweight, quick-drying clothing is ideal
Safety in the Wilderness
Tasmania's wilderness demands respect – follow these safety practices:
- Always check current weather forecasts and track conditions before setting out
- Register your walks – use logbooks at track starts or inform reliable contacts of your plans
- Carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for remote walks
- Take adequate water and emergency food
- A basic first aid kit, space blanket, and fire-starting materials should be in your pack
- Study maps in advance and carry paper maps as backup to electronic devices
- Be conservative in your plans – allow extra time and consider your fitness and experience honestly
Track Safety
Tasmania's weather can deteriorate rapidly, particularly in alpine areas. Be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen – the mountain will always be there another day. Many wilderness rescues occur when hikers push on despite deteriorating conditions or daylight.
Permits and Regulations
Access to Tasmania's natural areas involves some administrative considerations:
- A Parks Pass is required for entry to Tasmania's national parks, available online or at visitor centers (various durations available)
- The Overland Track requires specific booking and fees during peak season (October-May)
- The Three Capes Track requires advance booking year-round
- Some remote areas require registration or permits
- Campfire restrictions apply in many areas, particularly during summer – check current regulations
- Fishing in inland waters requires a license (available online)
Responsible Wilderness Travel
Help preserve Tasmania's pristine environments by following these principles:
- Follow Leave No Trace principles – pack out all waste, including food scraps and toilet paper
- Stay on marked tracks to prevent damage to fragile alpine vegetation
- Use established campsites where available
- If camping in remote areas, set up at least 100 meters from lakes and streams
- Use fuel stoves rather than campfires where possible
- Respect wildlife – observe from a distance and never feed native animals
- Be mindful of biosecurity – clean boots between walking areas to prevent spread of pathogens like Phytophthora (root rot)
Planning Your Tasmanian Wilderness Journey
When to Visit
The best time to visit depends on your interests and tolerance for various conditions:
- For hiking and extended wilderness experiences: Late November to April offers the most stable weather and longest daylight hours
- For fewer crowds but still good conditions: March-April and October-November (shoulder seasons)
- For winter wilderness: August typically offers the best combination of snow coverage and increasing daylight
- For photography: Autumn (April-May) offers beautiful light, fall colors, and misty mornings
- For wildlife: Spring (September-November) for birds and summer (December-February) for marsupials with young
Getting Around
Exploring Tasmania's wilderness requires some planning:
- A rental car or campervan offers the most flexibility for accessing wilderness areas
- Many trailheads have limited or no public transport access
- Some tour operators offer shuttle services to popular walking tracks
- Consider basing yourself in hub towns like Hobart, Launceston, Strahan, or Cradle Mountain and taking day trips
- For remote areas like the Southwest, consider scenic flights to access areas like Melaleuca
- Allow more driving time than GPS estimates – Tasmania's roads are often winding and scenic
Accommodation Options
Tasmania offers diverse wilderness accommodation experiences:
- Wilderness Lodges - High-end accommodations in pristine settings, like Cradle Mountain Lodge or Freycinet Lodge
- Eco-Cabins - Self-contained, environmentally sensitive accommodations often in remote locations
- Public Huts - Basic shelters on walking tracks like the Overland Track (booking essential)
- Camping - From developed campgrounds with facilities to remote wilderness camping
- Historic Accommodations - Repurposed lighthouse keepers' cottages, forestry huts, and heritage buildings
- Farm Stays - Rural properties offering accommodation and a glimpse of Tasmanian country life
Conclusion: The Transformative Power of Tasmania's Wilderness
Tasmania's wild places offer more than just spectacular scenery – they provide a rare opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with natural rhythms and ancient landscapes. In an age of constant connectivity and urban living, the profound quiet of a Tarkine rainforest, the exhilaration of standing atop a mountain sculpted by ice millions of years ago, or the simple joy of watching a platypus glide through a pristine stream can be truly transformative experiences.
What makes Tasmania's wilderness particularly special is its accessibility. While some areas require serious commitment and preparation to reach, many extraordinary natural experiences are relatively easy to access – ancient rainforests just short walks from parking areas, wildlife encounters a short drive from major towns, and stunning coastal scenery along well-maintained roads.
As you plan your own Tasmanian wilderness journey, I encourage you to allow space in your itinerary for the unexpected – the hidden beach discovered down an unmarked path, the wombat encountered on a dawn walk, or the local tip about a little-known waterfall. Some of Tasmania's most magical experiences come when you slow down, venture beyond the iconic photo spots, and allow yourself to be fully present in these ancient landscapes.
Whether you're an experienced wilderness traveler or taking your first steps into wild places, Tasmania offers natural experiences that will remain with you long after you've returned home – memories of pristine landscapes that exist today much as they have for thousands of years, a precious glimpse of our planet as it once was.