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South Coast Track Tasmania

South Coast Track

Southwest National Park

One of the most scenic multiday hikes you can do in Tasmania, the South Coast Track is a stunning trek through the pristine wilderness of Southwest National Park. Getting dropped off by light plane at Melaleuca (or catching one back to Hobart), this 6-8 day adventure explores buttongrass plains, wild beaches, temperature rainforest, mountain ranges, creek crossings and plenty of muddy tracks.

 

Originally cut as an escape track for shipwreck survivors, it has been repurposed for hikers to enjoy a much more relaxed experience. With plenty of excellent campsites along the way, this track will leave a lasting impression on anyone who tackles the challenge. It's not an easy hike with plenty of tough terrain but it's a rewarding experience. 

Getting There - See the Par Avion website for flight timetables. Flights range from $325pp and run every day of the year.

Campsites - There are multiple campsites along the track with the main campsites containing tent pads and a long drop toilet.

Water - There are no water tanks at the campsites. Water is collected at streams, creeks and rivers along the route and it is advised that you treat or boil water before drinking.

Guidebook - John Chapman has a popular guidebook to the South Coast Track with maps, elevation profiles, water locations and a general description of each section. Take his time indications with a grain of salt, we found them to be on the optimistic side and didn't include breaks or stops. 

Safety - Please be aware of the weather conditions before going out. There are river and creek crossings that can be dangerous after rains. Always carry a PLB and do not overestimate your abilities as the area is extremely remote and rescue is not an easy task. 

Below are links to a day by day account of my January 2023 hike with all the information and photos you'll need to help plan your own epic adventure.

Melaleuca to Point Eric

Length - 14.0km

Vertical Climb - 166m

After being dropped off at Melaleuca Airstrip, hike across buttongrass plains towards the coast, before reaching Point Eric Campsite, right on the beach.

South Coast Track Tasmania
Hiker on the South Coast Track
Point Eric Campsite on the South Coast Track
Creek Crossing on the South Coast Track
Hiking the South Coast Track in Tasmania
Buttongrass Plains on the South Coast Track

Point Eric to Louisa River

Length - 18.4km

Vertical Climb - 394m

Starting off with a relaxing beach walk, you then head inland through buttongrass plains, over a small hill and cross a couple of creeks before reaching Louisa River.

Louisa River to Little Deadmans Bay

Length - 15.4km

Vertical Climb - 970m

The infamous Ironbound Range day of the South Coast Track and one of the most challenging days with plenty of climbing and a long descent to tackle.

Mount Louisa on the South Coast Track
Hikers on the Ironbound Range
Little Deadmans Bay on the South Coast Track
Prion Boat Crossing on the South Coast Track
Mossy Forest on the South Coast Track
Beach Walking on the South Coast Track

Little Deadmans Bay to Osmiridium Beach

Length - 16.7km

Vertical Climb - 428m

Exploring the coastal headlands of the South Coast Track, along with a couple of beaches, the big highlight of this day is the Prion Boat Crossing.

Osmiridium Beach to Granite Beach

Length - 10.5km

Vertical Climb - 437m

An easier day filled with amazing beaches, old growth forests and one of the best campsites, complete with a waterfall onto the pebbly beach below.

Suprise Beach on the South Coast Track
Old Growth Forest on the South Coast Track
Waterfall on Granite Beach on the South Coast Track
Temperate Rainforest on the South Coast Track
South Cape Rivulet Campsite on the South Coast Track
Muddy Track on the South Coast Track

Granite Beach to South Cape Rivulet

Length - 14.1km

Vertical Climb - 720m

A challenging day full of hills, mud and the most beautiful temperate rainforest. Finishing at South Cape Rivulet, the campsite is a nice reward for effort.

South Cape Rivulet to Cockle Creek

Length - 13.3km

Vertical Climb - 256m

The final day of the South Coast Track sees you walk along a few beach sections before heading through forest and plains to the finish at Cockle Creek.

Coastal Cliffs on the South Coast Track
South Coast Track Tasmania
End of the South Coast Track at Cockle Creek

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