Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, in Tasmania’s rugged southwest, is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Known for its ancient landscapes and untamed rivers, the park covers over 4,400km². The area offers a rare chance to experience an environment shaped by nature over millennia.
The Franklin and Gordon Rivers are the park’s central features. The park is popular for rafting, offering challenging rapids and striking scenery. Multi-day rafting trips on the Franklin River attract adventure seekers and provide an intimate way to experience the wilderness.
The Lyell Highway, which passes through the park, allows easier access to some of its attractions. Short walks along the highway lead to lookout points and forested trails. The 40-minute Donaghys Hill Wilderness Walk offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. This vantage point highlights the scale and isolation of the park.
Other short walks in the park include the Franklin River Nature Trail. On this 25-minute loop through temperate rainforest, visitors can see moss-covered trees, ferns and unique plant species. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the ecological significance of the forest.
Boating on the Gordon River is another popular activity. Cruises departing from Strahan, on the park’s western edge, take visitors through calm waters surrounded by dense forest. Stops often include Heritage Landing, where visitors can walk among ancient Huon pines.
The park also appeals to those interested in geology. Its quartzite peaks and deep gorges are remnants of ancient glacial activity. Frenchmans Cap, a prominent peak within the park, draws experienced hikers. The demanding trek takes 3–5 days and rewards climbers with panoramic views.
Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter a range of animals, including Tasmanian devils, quolls and wombats. Birdwatchers can spot species like the yellow-tailed black cockatoo and the endangered orange-bellied parrot.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the park’s fragile environment. Strict regulations are in place to minimise human impact. The remote location and challenging conditions mean that careful planning is essential for longer visits.