The best walks and hikes in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

There are over 15 hiking trails in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to challenging multi-day expeditions. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.8 stars.

Yes, the park offers several easy and family-friendly options. The Donaghys Hill Lookout loop is a short, easy path providing panoramic views of the Franklin River Valley. The Nelson Falls Track is another accessible 20-minute walk through cool temperate rainforest to an impressive waterfall, suitable for families and strollers.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Frenchman's Cap Trail is a demanding multi-day trek that embodies the essence of Tasmanian wilderness. It features tannin-colored rivers, buttongrass plains, glacial lakes, and craggy peaks, culminating in the iconic quartzite summit of Frenchman's Cap.

No, dogs and other pets are generally not permitted on hiking trails within Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. This is to protect the park's unique and sensitive wildlife and natural environment, as it is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Yes, the park is home to the beautiful Nelson Falls. You can reach this 30-meter cascade via an easy, flat, and well-maintained track through temperate rainforest. The falls are particularly impressive after heavy rainfall.

Yes, several trails offer a loop experience. The Donaghys Hill Lookout loop is a popular easy option. For a more moderate challenge, consider the King William I. loop, which offers 360-degree views from a rugged dolerite plateau. The Platypus Viewing Area loop is another easy option.

The park's rich environment supports a variety of native animals. Hikers might spot Tasmanian devils, spotted-tail quolls, eastern quolls, echidnas, and pademelons. Platypus are also often seen in the park's pristine rivers.

Beyond the iconic Franklin and Gordon Rivers, the park boasts dramatic peaks like Frenchman's Cap and Mount King William I, both offering spectacular views. The Donaghys Hill Lookout provides panoramic vistas of the Franklin River Valley. You'll also encounter ancient cool temperate rainforests with towering Huon Pines and picturesque glacial lakes such as Lake Vera and Lake Tahune.

Yes, a valid Parks Pass is required for entry into Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. These passes can be purchased online or at various visitor centers and service stations across Tasmania. For multi-day hikes, especially those into remote areas, it's also advisable to register your intentions with the Parks and Wildlife Service.

Public transport options directly into Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park are very limited due to its remote nature. Most visitors access the park and its trailheads, primarily located along the Lyell Highway, by private vehicle. Some tour operators may offer transport services to specific trailheads for multi-day treks.

The best time to hike generally depends on your desired experience. Summer (December to February) offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, ideal for multi-day treks. Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) provide cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery, though weather can be more unpredictable. Winter (June to August) can be very cold and wet, with snow possible at higher elevations, making some trails challenging or inaccessible.

The park is renowned for its ancient cool temperate rainforests, featuring moss-covered trees, fern glades, and towering Huon Pines, some of which are thousands of years old. You'll also find extensive buttongrass moorlands and diverse eucalypt forests, making for a rich botanical experience.