South Coast Track | Tasmania, Australia

Distance:  80 km (49.7 mi)

Average Time:  4 or 5 days

Difficulty:   Moderate

Start / Finish:

• Cockle Creek – Melaleuca

• There is no public transport to Cockle Creek. It is possible to take a bus from Hobart to the town of Dover and from there a taxi to the trailhead (44 km).

• Melaleuca is accessible by light airplane with Par-Avion.

Season:

• November – April

• February and March represent your best chance (chuckle, chuckle) of good weather.

Maps / Info:

• Map: You can pick up either a paper copy or a digital download of the 1:100,000 South Coast Walks map from TASMAP. The hiking map can also be purchased at outdoor stores throughout Tasmania.

• Guidebook: John Chapman’s South Coast Track (2nd Edition) and South West Tasmania (6th Edition) include maps, trekking notes, flora and fauna information, and logistical details.

• GPS: See AllTrails for GPX data for the trail (plus the Port Davey Track extension).

Route / Conditions:

• The weather in South West Tasmania is amongst the wildest and most unpredictable on the planet. Be sure to bring good waterproofs and warm clothing.

• There are some very muddy sections on this hike, although in recent years increased boarding and track development has made the South Coast Track a much less boggy proposition than it once was. Nonetheless, this is Tasmania and gaiters are definitely recommended.

• The trail is relatively easy from a navigational perspective.

• The high-level section over the Ironbound range is quite exposed and care must be taken during storms.

• One of the cool things about this hike is the rowboat crossing of New River Lagoon. This was actually the first time I had ever rowed a boat, and to this day my cousin Wade, with whom I did this trek, takes great pleasure in reminding me how ordinary/comical/haphazard my rowing efforts were.

Sleeping:

• Bring a tent. Be sure that it holds up well in a storm.

Overview:

• Great hike.  Rugged mountains, pristine beaches, wonderful views and at times challenging terrain.

• Due to time restrictions/work commitments, we had to finish our hike in Melaleuca (from where we got a flight). With more time on your hands, I would recommend linking this trail up with the Port Davey trek, which adds a further 75 km to your walk and finishes at the road accessible Scott Peaks Dam.