Southwest National Park

This National Park is a region of true wilderness. It has an area of 800,000ha, and the only access is the Gordon River Road and the Scotts Peak Road. The region is prone to 'the roaring forties' so you find that it rains pretty constantly, for all but serveral months a year. Hikers should be prepared both physically and mentally for the conditions. The only practial time for hiking in this area is between December and February. In the 1980's Australians waged a conservation war with the government, to stop a major hydro-dam project being build. In saving the Franklin and Gordon rivers, they also saved the giant thousand-year-old Huon pines. In the late 1980's it was declared a World Heritage area.

Western Arthurs Walk

Distance : 80kms

Location : South/Western Tasmania. Lake Pedder area

This hike leaves from Scotts Peak Dam (Huon Campground) looping around the Western Arthur Range and Lake Cygnus. There are some 30 odd picturesque lakes that can be visited with side trips. This is quite a hard walk, due to the undulation nature of the terrain. Give yourself plenty of time. You must be completely self-sufficience for this major walk. You will need warm, water-proof clothing, good hiking boots, a fuel stove, rope (this hike is challenging, and you will require a rope). A self-supporting tent is also recommended. Take plenty of supplies, as you might be tent bound if the weather conditions deteriorate.

Please note...This is a hike for experienced hikers only.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Southwest National Park,
Park Office,