The Tarkine Drive

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).