Unveiling the Wilderness: Top Scenic Walks on Tasmania’s West Coast
Tasmania’s West Coast is often described as wild, raw, and untamed—and for good reason. This region, defined by ancient rainforests, deep river valleys, windswept coastlines, and remote mountain ranges, offers some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in Australia. For nature lovers and adventurers seeking solitude and scenery, the West Coast delivers a rare, immersive experience.
Whether you’re after a short scenic walk or a full-day hike, these trails showcase the best of what the wilderness has to offer. Lace up your boots—here are the top scenic walks to explore on Tasmania’s West Coast.
1. Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park: Donaghys Hill Lookout Walk
Tucked within the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park offers a front-row seat to one of the most remote ecosystems in the country.
The Donaghys Hill Lookout Walk is a short 2.2 km return trail that delivers massive rewards for minimal effort. The gently rising track takes you through lush temperate rainforest, where you’ll be surrounded by moss-covered trees and the scent of ancient vegetation. At the top, a viewing platform opens up to panoramic vistas of the Franklin and Collingwood rivers, and distant views of Frenchmans Cap, one of Tasmania’s most iconic peaks.
Trail info:
• Distance: 2.2 km return
• Grade: Easy to moderate
• Access: Located 40 minutes from Queenstown on the Lyell Highway
Why it’s special: This trail offers one of the best lookouts in the region and is suitable for most fitness levels. It’s perfect as a stop on a West Coast road trip or for those short on time.
2. Ocean Beach Walk – Wild Coastlines and Roaring Winds
Just outside the charming harbour town of Strahan lies Ocean Beach, a vast, windswept stretch of sand that seems to go on forever. While not a formal hiking trail in the traditional sense, a walk along Ocean Beach is a truly memorable experience—especially during golden hour or just after a storm.
You’ll likely have the beach all to yourself, aside from the occasional wallaby or sea eagle. The sheer isolation, combined with crashing waves and shifting sands, makes this one of the most atmospheric walks on the coast.
Trail info:
• Choose your own distance
• Flat, sandy terrain
• Access: 5-minute drive from Strahan township
Tip: Bring a windbreaker, as the Roaring Forties can be fierce!
3. Henty Dunes Walk – A Landscape of Sand and Sky
Located 15 minutes north of Strahan, the Henty Dunes are a towering sandscape unlike anything else in Tasmania. These colossal dunes, formed by thousands of years of wind and ocean activity, are a hiker’s playground.
There’s no formal track, which adds to the sense of adventure. Choose your own path and climb to the top for sweeping views of the Southern Ocean on one side and dense forest on the other. It’s a workout, but the feeling of standing atop a sea of golden dunes is unforgettable.
Trail info:
• Distance varies (1–2 hours recommended)
• Grade: Moderate (soft sand and inclines)
• Access: Henty Road, off the Zeehan-Strahan Road (B27)
Why go: It’s one of the most unique landscapes in Tasmania, and the sunsets from the dune tops are worth every step.
4. Montezuma Falls Track – Waterfalls and Rainforest Magic
For those craving a longer walk through dense rainforest, the Montezuma Falls trail near Rosebery is a must-do. At 8.2 km return, this well-maintained track leads you to Tasmania’s tallest waterfall (104 metres) via a gentle route along a historic tramway.
The walk itself is half the magic—passing through tunnels of green, with the sound of birdsong and trickling streams. At the falls, a viewing platform and a swinging bridge provide perfect vantage points for photos and a bit of thrill.
Trail info:
• Distance: 8.2 km return
• Grade: Easy to moderate
• Access: From Williamsford, near Rosebery
Bonus: Keep an eye out for relics from the old mining days and fascinating fungi on the forest floor.
5. Philosopher Falls – Into the Forest’s Heart
If you find yourself near the town of Waratah, the Philosopher Falls Walk offers a deeply immersive rainforest experience. The 3.2 km return track winds through a forest of myrtle, ferns, and ancient sassafras, ending at a waterfall tucked into a mossy gorge.
The track includes wooden boardwalks and a series of steps toward the end. It’s quiet, peaceful, and dripping with atmosphere—especially on misty mornings.
Trail info:
• Distance: 3.2 km return
• Grade: Moderate (some stairs)
• Access: Waratah Road, 3 km south of Waratah
Insider tip: This area is known for rare fungi in cooler months—perfect for macro photographers and nature nerds.
Final Thoughts: Why Walk the West?
The West Coast of Tasmania isn’t about polished parks or guided tours - it’s about raw nature, silence, and discovery. It’s for those who chase horizons, who trade comfort for connection, and who believe the best paths are the ones that lead to something wild. Whether you’re hiking to a roaring waterfall, wandering windswept dunes, or gazing across rainforest-cloaked valleys, each step is a step deeper into one of Australia’s last true wilderness frontiers.
Looking for more travel inspiration?
Plan your next wild escape and base yourself at The Lazy Prospector—your cosy cabin retreat in Zeehan, perfectly located to explore these walking wonders, and return to quiet evenings by the fire. From here, the wilderness is never far away.
Explorer’s note: Bring your camera - and your sense of wonder.
