Things to Do in Southwest National Park

Southwest National Park is Tasmania's largest national park, encompassing nearly 10% of the state and forming a significant part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It is known for its pristine wilderness, rugged landscapes, and diverse ecosystems, including mountain ranges, buttongrass moorlands, and ancient rainforests.

Southwest National Park primarily offers hiking opportunities. The park features 11 routes for hiking and 1 route for jogging. These routes range from challenging multi-day treks to shorter day walks, showcasing the park's varied environments.

Popular hiking routes include the Wildlife along the way – South Cape Bay Viewpoint loop from Cockle Creek, a moderate 9.3 mile (14.9 km) trek. Another highly-rated option is the Tasmanian Tiger Silhouette – Cantilever Lookout loop from Tahune Adventures Visitor Centre, an easy 3 mile (4.8 km) route.

Yes, Southwest National Park offers several easy hiking trails. An example is the Tasmanian Tiger Silhouette – Cantilever Lookout loop from Tahune Adventures Visitor Centre, which is 3 miles (4.8 km) long. The Fishers Point Pilot Station loop from Cockle Creek is another easy option, covering 3.9 miles (6.3 km).

Southwest National Park is renowned for its demanding multi-day treks. The South Coast Track is an 85 km (53 mile) walk along the coastline, typically taking 6-8 days. The Western Arthur Range Traverse and the Mount Anne Circuit are also considered highly challenging alpine routes.

The park features dramatic mountain ranges, buttongrass moorlands, and ancient rainforests. Key natural attractions include vast lakes like Lake Pedder and Lake Gordon. The coastline offers wild, windswept beaches, such as those accessible from Cockle Creek leading to South Cape Bay.

Southwest National Park is a popular destination on komoot, with more than 300 visitors having shared their experiences. The routes available in the park have an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Komoot offers several guides for the region, including Hiking in Southwest National Park, which provides a general overview. For less strenuous options, the Easy hikes in Southwest National Park guide is available.

For inquiries, visitors can contact the Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania. The Huonville Office, for entrance via Cockle Creek, can be reached at 03 6121 7026. The Mount Field Visitor Centre, for entrance via Maydena, can be reached at 03 6288 1149.

Routes in Southwest National Park have an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on komoot. This rating is based on feedback from more than 300 visitors who have explored the park's 11 available routes.

Yes, in addition to hiking, Southwest National Park also features at least one route suitable for jogging. This provides an alternative way to experience the park's natural environment.