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Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park wilderness guide
National Park · TAS

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, located in Tasmania, offers a breathtaking blend of rugged landscapes and ancient forests, making it a haven for adventure and nature enthusiasts.

National Park1,200,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,200,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, located in Tasmania, offers a breathtaking blend of rugged landscapes and ancient forests, making it a haven for adventure and nature enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is part of the Tasmania Wilderness World Heritage Area and is renowned for its untouched nature and stunning scenery. Encompassing rugged mountains, deep valleys, and powerful rivers, the park represents one of the last true wild areas on Earth. Its network of rivers includes the mighty Franklin River, which is famous for its white-water rafting opportunities. The park is also home to significant biodiversity, with many rare and endemic species of flora and fauna. Historically, the area has cultural significance for the Indigenous Tasmanian people, and in more recent history, it gained attention due to conservation campaigns to protect it from dam development. With ample opportunities for hiking, exploring ancient rainforests, and discovering remote waterfalls, the park appeals to those seeking wilderness adventures and peaceful retreats amidst nature.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

The Untamed Beauty of Franklin River★ 8.7⌖ 16 miWhite Water Rafting
Franklin River

The Untamed Beauty of Franklin River

Explore Franklin River's daunting rapids and serene pools in Southwest Tasmania's wilderness. It's a challenging spot for white water rafting and hiking with rare wildlife. Best visited in late spring to early autumn.

White Water RaftingView Details→
Nature's Symphony at Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park★ 8.9⌖ 16 miHiking
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Nature's Symphony at Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Explore Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park with its stunning wilderness landscapes. Enjoy hiking to Nelson Falls or tackle the challenging Frenchmans Cap Trek. Offering a remote escape, this serene adventure spot is perfect for those seeking solitude and scenic beauty.

Cascade Wonder of Nelson Falls★ 8.5⌖ 31 miHiking
Nelson Falls

Cascade Wonder of Nelson Falls

Experience the beauty of Nelson Falls in Tasmania with a short, family-friendly hike that's easy for all ages. The 20-minute round trip is perfect for birdwatching and photography. Visit year-round to enjoy this accessible waterfall, but expect more visitors during summer.

Overland Track: Tasmania's Premier Wilderness Trek★ 9.3⌖ 51 miHiking
Overland Track

Overland Track: Tasmania's Premier Wilderness Trek

The Overland Track in Tasmania is a 65 km multi-day hike through diverse terrain, including alpine meadows and temperate rainforests. Moderate difficulty with well-marked trails, huts, and stunning wildlife sightings. Best hiked spring to fall with necessary permits and preparations.

Enchanting Waterfalls of Mount Field National Park★ 8.7⌖ 51 miHiking
Mount Field National Park

Enchanting Waterfalls of Mount Field National Park

Explore the enchanting waterfalls of Mount Field National Park, just a 1.5-hour drive from Hobart, Tasmania. The park features trails like the Russell Falls Walk, accessible to all, offering breathtaking views and wildlife sightings.

Cascading Beauty: Discovering Russell Falls★ 8.5⌖ 54 miHiking
Russell Falls

Cascading Beauty: Discovering Russell Falls

Experience Russell Falls in Mount Field National Park, an easy 1-hour drive from Hobart. Stroll the accessible boardwalk to the fall's stunning multi-tiered cascades, ideal for photographers year-round. Spot native wildlife like pademelons in this scenic park.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Frenchmans Cap, a spectacular peak offering breathtaking views.✦ The Franklin River for its challenging white-water rafting experiences.✦ Gordon River Road, providing scenic access into the heart of the park.✦ Nelson Falls, a picturesque waterfall easily accessible for visitors.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Park Recreation

Rafting

Available in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees but permits may be required for certain activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Lake St Clair Campground

Located near Lake St Clair, offering both powered and unpowered sites with facilities.

Frenchmans Cap Trailhead

A basic camping area for those embarking on or returning from the Frenchmans Cap hike.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Strathgordon
⌖ 25.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Strathgordon, Tasmania

A remote gateway to Tasmania’s wilderness, offering rugged landscapes and pristine waterways for nature lovers seeking solitude and wild outdoor activities.

Summer to early AutumnExplore Town
Strahan
⌖ 31.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Strahan, Tasmania

A rugged coastal town offering access to remote wilderness, rivers, and forests perfect for paddling, hiking, and wildlife encounters along Tasmania’s wild west coast.

Summer and AutumnExplore Town
Queenstown
⌖ 32.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Queenstown, Tasmania

A rugged and raw mining town surrounded by dramatic landscapes offering thrilling adventures for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Spring and SummerExplore Town
Lake St Clair Village
⌖ 39.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lake St Clair Village, Tasmania

A peaceful gateway to Tasmania’s wilderness offering access to rugged trails, pristine waters, and alpine landscapes for a variety of outdoor activities.

Summer to early Autumn (December to April)Explore Town
Derwent Bridge
⌖ 40.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Derwent Bridge, Tasmania

A remote gateway to Tasmania’s rugged wilderness featuring alpine landscapes and access to iconic hiking and skiing destinations.

Summer to early Autumn (December to April)Explore Town
Zeehan
⌖ 48.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Zeehan, Tasmania

A rugged frontier town with rich mining heritage and close access to wild West Coast landscapes, delivering diverse outdoor pursuits amid ancient rainforests and wild coastlines.

Summer to early AutumnExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.