Unforgettable Stops Along the Tarkine Drive: Your Ultimate Guide
Embark on a journey through one of Tasmania's most pristine wilderness areas with the Tarkine Drive. This 205-kilometre loop offers breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences.
- The Tarkine Drive follows sealed and easily accessible roads on a roughly 130-kilometre route through dense temperate rainforest and wild coastal plains.
- It's best to begin the drive from Smithton, which is located on the northeast coast approximately 21 kilometres from Stanley.
- I recommend following a counter-clockwise route from Smithton, heading through the rainforest areas of Sumac and Trowutta before finishing up on an afternoon drive to watch the sunset on the wild West Coast.
- Most visitors tend to head down the Tarkine Drive on a single day trip and choose the stops that appeal to them most.
Here's your must-visit list for an unforgettable adventure:
- Arthur River
Start your journey here. Take a river cruise or kayak along the "Edge of the World" coastline.
Don't miss: Sunset at the "Edge of the World" lookout.
- Sumac Lookout
Enjoy panoramic views of the Julius River and surrounding rainforest.
Tip: Perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
- Julius River Forest Reserve
Walk through ancient myrtle beech forests on the Julius River walk.
Activity: Look for platypus in the river.
- Lake Chisholm Forest Reserve
Visit this magical flooded limestone sinkhole surrounded by lush forest.
Must-do: Take the short walk to the lake's edge.
- Trowutta Arch
A geological wonder formed by collapsed caves.
Highlight: The short walk through the rainforest is as enchanting as the destination.
- Dempster Plains
Experience the unique button grass plains landscape.
Birdwatchers: Keep an eye out for ground parrots and azure kingfishers.
- Rapid River
Stop for a picnic by this picturesque river.
Adventure: Try your hand at trout fishing (license required).