The South Coast Track located in the Southwest National Park is renowned as being one of Tasmania’s premier wilderness walks. Starting deep within the World Heritage Area at Melaleuca the track takes you 85km across rugged mountain ranges, coastal heathland and vast pristine beaches. There are no roads to Melaleuca so hikers must fly in to begin the walk.
Taking between 6 – 8 days to complete the South Coast Track covers some of the most untouched and remarkable wilderness found anywhere in Australia. Tackling the trail requires suitable planning, experience and equipment. Hikers must be familiar with Tasmania’s wilderness walking conditions. It is recommended that the track is walked during summer months.
Our track notes are kept brief and should be used as an introductory guide to the South Coast Track but not as official track notes or maps. Having walked this personally using John Chapman’s guide, the same suggested itinerary is presented. It is recommended that walkers use the South Coast Track guide book by John & Monica Chapman and the South Coast Walking Track Maps available from TASMAP.
Although the majority of the track is well constructed and easily navigated there are some sections of difficulty (especially in relation to traversing mud). The South Coast Track is a wilderness experience and all walkers must be fully self-sufficient and have suitable experience in the Tasmanian bush. There are no facilities aside from toilets between Melaleuca and Cockle Creek. Time requirements for the South Coast Track differ greatly depending on fitness levels and time spent relaxing. This guide details a recommended 7 day itinerary.
