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Southwest National Park wilderness guide
National Park · TAS

Southwest National Park

Southwest National Park is the largest national park in Tasmania, offering rugged wilderness and unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation.

National Park1,217,8743+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,217,874

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Southwest National Park

Southwest National Park is the largest national park in Tasmania, offering rugged wilderness and unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Southwest National Park, located in the remote southwestern corner of Tasmania, encompasses dramatic landscapes that range from towering mountain ranges to vast button grass plains. The park is a crucial component of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, recognized for its outstanding universal value. It is home to a diverse array of ecosystems, supporting rare and endangered species such as the orange-bellied parrot and the eastern quoll. Visitors are drawn to its rugged wilderness, which offers a wealth of recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Notable landmarks include Federation Peak, a challenging climb known for its sheer rock face and breathtaking vistas, and the serene Lake Pedder. The park's history is rich, with evidence of Aboriginal habitation dating back millennia, and its remote nature has kept it largely unchanged, providing a glimpse into the pristine past of Tasmania. Outdoor enthusiasts relish the chance to explore the Overland Track, one of Australia's most famous hikes, as well as other remote trails that offer solitude and the chance to connect with nature.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Southwest National Park

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

Enchanting Waterfalls of Mount Field National Park★ 8.7⌖ 17 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⌖ 20 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.

Nature's Symphony at Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park★ 8.9⌖ 25 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.

The Untamed Beauty of Franklin River★ 8.7⌖ 37 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→
Cascade Wonder of Nelson Falls★ 8.5⌖ 52 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.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Federation Peak - a world-renowned challenge for experienced climbers.✦ The endangered orange-bellied parrot, one of the world's rarest birds.✦ Gordon River Road, offering fabulous vistas of the park's rugged interior.✦ The remote and captivating Lake Pedder, known for its striking beauty.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Southwest National Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Southwest National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Southwest National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Southwest National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Southwest 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 Southwest National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees are required for entry; however, park passes are advisable for extended stays.

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 Southwest National Park

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

Teds Beach Campground

Located on the shores of Lake Pedder, offering easy access to water activities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Southwest National Park

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

Strathgordon, Tasmania
⌖ 14.3 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Strathgordon, Tasmania

Strathgordon is a remote base for exploring Tasmania’s wild Southwest, with hiking, paddling, and wildlife spotting amid vast wilderness parks. It’s perfect for visitors seeking solitude, stunning landscapes, and authentic backcountry adventure.

Summer to early AutumnExplore Town
South Hobart, Tasmania
⌖ 51.7 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

South Hobart, Tasmania

South Hobart offers hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers immediate access to Tasmania’s iconic Mount Wellington trails, lush reserves, and stunning waterfalls. This vibrant town is a perfect base to dive into both local heritage and wild adventure.

Spring to AutumnExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Southwest 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.