South Coast Track

Distance 85km | Climb 2,731m | Descent 2,729m | High point 907m

The South Coast Track is a demanding 85km wilderness trek through Tasmania’s Southwest National Park. Taking seven to nine days, it follows rugged coastlines, climbs mountainous terrain and crosses rivers, offering walkers a remote and challenging experience. Beginning at Melaleuca and ending at Cockle Creek, the track showcases pristine landscapes and diverse ecosystems, rewarding those who prepare adequately for the journey.

The track is remote and unmarked in some sections, requiring navigation skills and careful planning. The trail crosses rivers, often without bridges, and many sections are muddy, particularly after rain. Sturdy footwear, gaiters and trekking poles are recommended.

Hiking the South Coast Track

Day 1: Melaleuca to Point Eric (12km)
The track begins at Melaleuca, accessible only by light aircraft. The first section leads through button grass plains, crossing small creeks and offering views of the Bathurst Harbour area. After around 12km, walkers reach Point Eric, where a basic campsite near the beach provides the first night’s rest.

Day 2: Point Eric to Louisa River (18km)
This day includes long stretches of walking along beaches and inland tracks. At Louisa Bay, a short detour offers views and an opportunity to rest. The track then climbs gently towards the Louisa River campsite, which features tent platforms and river access for water.

Day 3: Louisa River to Little Deadmans Bay (13km)
One of the most challenging sections involves crossing the Ironbound Range. The ascent is steep and exposed, with the highest point reaching 900m. Weather conditions can change quickly, so walkers should prepare for wind and rain. The descent into Little Deadmans Bay is equally steep, and care is needed on wet tracks. Campsites are available near the beach.

Day 4: Little Deadmans Bay to Prion Beach (10km)
The day begins with a mix of forest and beach walking. The route includes crossing several creeks and muddy sections. Prion Beach provides a flat area for camping, though it is exposed to winds from the Southern Ocean.

Day 5: Prion Beach to Surprise Bay (11km)
This section includes a crossing over New River Lagoon, which requires using a rowboat provided at the site. Walkers must ferry themselves and their packs across the water in stages. Once across, the track continues through forest and open heathland before reaching Surprise Bay, where a campsite is located near the beach.

Day 6: Surprise Bay to Granite Beach (9km)
This day features varied terrain, including rocky headlands, forested paths and sections of beach. Granite Beach is known for its dramatic rock formations and a small waterfall near the campsite, which provides fresh water.

Day 7: Granite Beach to Cockle Creek (12km)
The final day includes crossing the South Cape Range. The ascent and descent are steep but shorter than the Ironbound Range. The track then leads through coastal forests to the trail’s end at Cockle Creek, where walkers can celebrate completing the trek.

Practical details

The South Coast Track starts at Melaleuca, which is only accessible by small aircraft. Par Avion operate daily flights from Cambridge Aerodrome near Hobart but the $350 cost per person makes this considerably more expensive than the average bushwalk. The trail ends at Cockle Creek, approximately a two-hour drive from Hobart.

Buses 731 and 732 run between Hobart and Cambridge aerodrome but they’re not particularly frequent and there is no public transport access at all to Cockle Creek. This means that you’ll need to arrange for someone to pick you up from Cockle Creek after you have completed the hike.

Campsites along the track are basic, with no facilities beyond tent platforms and water access in some areas. Walkers must carry all food, cooking equipment and rubbish. There are no shops or resupply points along the trail.

A Parks Pass is required for entry into Southwest National Park. Walkers should also register their trip with Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.

Fishers Point Track, Recherche TAS 7109
Website parks.tas.gov.au
Flights to the trailhead cost from $350