Tarkine, TAS

 Australia

Discover Tasmania's pristine wilderness set against a craggy, windswept coastline.

Trip duration:
5 days

Challenge duration:
5 days

Challenge grade:
3/5

Departure months:
Mid-September to mid-May

Accommodation:
Twin-share in comfortable cabins & lodge

Hiking the Tarkine

The Tarkine, or takayna as it is known in the local Aboriginal language, is a breathtaking forest reserve containing Australia's largest temperate rainforest and some of the more spectacular landscapes on the planet.

This wild expanse in Tasmania’s northwest corner has been sacred to its Aboriginal custodians for millennia. The terrain here is as diverse as its wild inhabitants – mountains, rivers, caves, buttongrass moorlands and coast are home to echidna, wombat, hundreds of bird species, platypus, bandicoot and the famous Tasmanian devil. Trekking under dense rainforest canopy and up to mountaintop lookouts, you’ll discover the Tarkine up close on this unforgettable adventure.

Best of all, you’ll be joined by a team of like-minded individuals who are bound to become close friends over the course of this life-changing adventure.

Trekker on rocky grassland in the Tarkine, Tasmania

Why you'll love this adventure

  • Trek for five days on some of the best trails in Tasmania
  • See highlights of the Tarkine wilderness including Philosopher’s Falls, the Savage River and coastal Pieman Heads
  • Challenge yourself with an ascent up Mount Donaldson
  • Raise vital funds for your chosen cause and make friends with like-minded people when you travel for good
Waterfall in lush rainforest in the Tarkine, Tasmania
Trekkers in the distance in the Tarkine, Tasmania
Long dry grass with Pieman River in the distance in the Tarkine, Tasmania
Close up of delicate mushrooms in Tarkine, Tasmania
Russell Falls in the Tarkine, Tasmania
Trekker along rocky coastline in Tarkine, Tasmania

Trip notes

Day 1: Hellyer Gorge and Philosopher’s Falls

We recommend that you arrive the night before to be ready to meet your team and guides at 7:45am at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston this morning. Then we’re off to the Tarkine!  After a pleasant two-hour drive, we’ll stop for morning tea in the seaside town of Penguin. Then it’s on to Hellyer Gorge where we begin our trek on a relatively easy nine-kilometre route which includes Philosopher’s Falls, a delightful introduction into the Tarkine. Later, we’ll settle into our lodge in Corinna – home for the next three nights – and enjoy a delicious welcome dinner.

Trekking Distance: 5km

Transfer Time: 3 ½ hours

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: L D

Day 2: Savage River and Whyte's River Walk

We start the day with a short drive to the Savage River bridge which is the starting point for one of two walks today. A long descent brings us to the river bank, where we take a well-earned break and soak up the ambience of this peaceful location. After lunch by the river, we continue, on a second walk,  on the Whyte’s River Walk, with giant man ferns, burrowing crayfish and the chance to see platypus. We’ll return to the lodge for a well-earned dinner and good night’s sleep.

Trekking Distance: 9km 

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: B L D

Day 3: Pieman Heads

We’re up early today to catch the sunrise departure of the MV Arcadia boat down to the mouth of the Pieman River and out onto the wild Tarkine Coast. After an hour-and- a-half boat ride, we disembark and spend the morning exploring the wild Pieman Heads. This craggy, wild, barren track can be muddy and wet but offers spectacular views as it winds in and out of the coast. If weather permits, we’ll have an opportunity for a lunchtime swim. We return via the circuit route to the MV Arcadia and enjoy a river cruise back to our lodge. The late afternoon will be free to explore the river near the lodge or just relax before we enjoy another dinner cooked by our guides.

Trekking Distance: 10km

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: B L D

Day 4: Mount Donaldson

After breakfast, we embark on the rewarding summit of Mount Donaldson. Beginning in the rainforests surrounding the Savage River, we soon break free of the tree-line. Our efforts are rewarded with breathtaking views far across the Tarkine wilderness and beyond. In fine weather, this is a real highlight of the trip. Tonight we will be spending our last night together in Tullah, an ex hydro village encircled by craggy mountains. 

Trekking Distance: 7km 

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: B L

Day 5: Montezuma Falls and Return to Launceston

Our final walk is to Montezuma Falls, one of Tasmania’s great short walks. The falls themselves are Tasmania’s highest single drop and are especially spectacular after rainfall. We enjoy lunch at the base of the falls and then make our way back to Launceston for 4.30pm. On our way we'll make a shortstop in the charming town of Sheffield to break up the journey. 

Trekking Distance: 8km 

Meals: B L 

Day 1: Hellyer Gorge and Philosopher’s Falls

We recommend that you arrive the night before to be ready to meet your team and guides at 7:45am at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston this morning. Then we’re off to the Tarkine!  After a pleasant two-hour drive, we’ll stop for morning tea in the seaside town of Penguin. Then it’s on to Hellyer Gorge where we begin our trek on a relatively easy nine-kilometre route which includes Philosopher’s Falls, a delightful introduction into the Tarkine. Later, we’ll settle into our lodge in Corinna – home for the next three nights – and enjoy a delicious welcome dinner.

Trekking Distance: 5km

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: L D

Day 2: Savage River and Whyte's River Walk

We start the day with a short drive to the Savage River bridge which is the starting point for one of two walks today. A long descent brings us to the river bank, where we take a well-earned break and soak up the ambience of this peaceful location. After lunch by the river, we continue, on a second walk,  on the Whyte’s River Walk, with giant man ferns, burrowing crayfish and the chance to see platypus. We’ll return to the lodge for a well-earned dinner and good night’s sleep.

Trekking Distance: 9km

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: B L D

Day 3: Pieman Heads

We’re up early today to catch the sunrise departure of the MV Arcadia boat down to the mouth of the Pieman River and out onto the wild Tarkine Coast. After an hour-and-a-half boat ride, we disembark and spend the morning exploring the wild Pieman Heads. This craggy, wild, barren track can be muddy and wet but offers spectacular views as it winds in and out of the coast. If weather permits, we’ll have an opportunity for a lunchtime swim. We return via the circuit route to the MV Arcadia and enjoy a river cruise back to our lodge. The late afternoon will be free to explore the river near the lodge or just relax before we enjoy another dinner cooked by our guides.

Trekking Distance: 10km

Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: B L D

Day 4: Mount Donaldson

After breakfast, we embark on the rewarding summit of Mount Donaldson. Beginning in the rainforests surrounding the Savage River, we soon break free of the tree-line. Our efforts are rewarded with breathtaking views far across the Tarkine wilderness and beyond. In fine weather, this is a real highlight of the trip. Tonight we will be spending our last night together in Tullah, an ex hydro village encircled by craggy mountains. 

Trekking Distance: 7km

Accommodation: Tullah Lakeside Lodge

Meals: B L

Day 5: Montezuma Falls and Return to Launceston

Our final walk is to Montezuma Falls, one of Tasmania’s great short walks. The falls themselves are Tasmania’s highest single drop and are especially spectacular after rainfall. We enjoy lunch at the base of the falls and then make our way back to Launceston for 4.30pm. On our way we'll make a shortstop in the charming town of Sheffield to break up the journey. 

Trekking Distance: 8km

Meals: B L

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

Your adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Tarkine trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge. We recommend that in the months leading up to your trip, you increase your physical fitness with aerobic exercise.

Who will I be travelling with? 

Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.

The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. 

Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

During the trek we stay in eco wilderness retreat cottages in Corinna for three nights and at the Lakeside Lodge in Tullah for one night. The cottages are self-contained, all linen and towels are included. The cottages have two bedrooms, one twin room and one double room, a shared bathroom as well as lounge and kitchen area.

Our last night of the trek is spent at the Lakeside Lodge in Tullah, which is perched on the banks of Lake Rosebery. We have accommodation in generously sized premium rooms which include tea and coffee facilities. Either twin or double bedding configurations are possible. Each room has its own bathroom with a toilet and shower and linen and towels are also included here.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

If you decide to purchase a single supplement, you would have your own room in the two-bedroom cabins in Corinna, and could be sharing the cabin (and bathroom) with one or two other guests. At the Lakeside Lodge you would get your own room with ensuite. Single supplement is subject to availability at time of booking.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

What is the food like? 

Breakfast is continental. Lunch varies from day to day, but includes things like meat, salad, bread and wraps, roast chicken and salad or quiche. Dinner is a casual two-course meal of main and dessert prepared by your guides (unless it is specified that we will be dining out). The menu is constantly changing but can include a classic steak on the barbecue, chicken korma or salmon fillet. Dessert can include maple baked apples, pears in red wine, fruit salad or pavlova to name just a few.

The food served is healthy, hearty and home grown. It won’t be five-star chef-prepared dining, but the food is fresh and our guides make sure it is tasty and plentiful. 

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

We are able to accommodate guests’ specific dietary requirements and can always prepare a meal to meet individual needs.

What weather can I expect?

Weather in autumn and springtime tends to average around 20-22°C in Launceston. Temperatures can get as low as 1-10°C, so be sure to bring layers. Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information.

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

You may not be able to use your phone while you are trekking—but don't worry, it's all part of the experience! If you're lucky, you might get some coverage at high points of the trail.

Will I have access to electricity?

Yes, you will have access to power points at your accommodation.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

Costs and payments

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Twin-share accommodation in comfortable cabins & lodge
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Water on trekking days
  • Local guide(s)
  • Entrance fees as per itinerary

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include: 

  • Flights
  • Airport transfers
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. 

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have travel insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

Your adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Tarkine trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge. We recommend that in the months leading up to your trip, you increase your physical fitness with aerobic exercise.

Who will I be travelling with? 

Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.

The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. 

Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

During the trek we stay in eco wilderness retreat cottages in Corinna for three nights and at the Lakeside Lodge in Tullah for one night. The cottages are self-contained, all linen and towels are included. The cottages have two bedrooms, one twin room and one double room, a shared bathroom as well as lounge and kitchen area.

Our last night of the trek is spent at the Lakeside Lodge in Tullah, which is perched on the banks of Lake Rosebery. We have accommodation in generously sized premium rooms which include tea and coffee facilities. Either twin or double bedding configurations are possible. Each room has its own bathroom with a toilet and shower and linen and towels are also included here.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

If you decide to purchase a single supplement, you would have your own room in the two-bedroom cabins in Corinna, and could be sharing the cabin (and bathroom) with one or two other guests. At the Lakeside Lodge you would get your own room with ensuite. Single supplement is subject to availability at time of booking.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

What is the food like? 

Breakfast is continental. Lunch varies from day to day, but includes things like meat, salad, bread and wraps, roast chicken and salad or quiche. Dinner is a casual two-course meal of main and dessert prepared by your guides (unless it is specified that we will be dining out). The menu is constantly changing but can include a classic steak on the barbecue, chicken korma or salmon fillet. Dessert can include maple baked apples, pears in red wine, fruit salad or pavlova to name just a few.

The food served is healthy, hearty and home grown. It won’t be five-star chef-prepared dining, but the food is fresh and our guides make sure it is tasty and plentiful. 

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

We are able to accommodate guests’ specific dietary requirements and can always prepare a meal to meet individual needs.

What weather can I expect?

Weather in autumn and springtime tends to average around 20-22°C in Launceston. Temperatures can get as low as 1-10°C, so be sure to bring layers. Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information.

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

You may not be able to use your phone while you are trekking—but don't worry, it's all part of the experience! If you're lucky, you might get some coverage at high points of the trail.

Will I have access to electricity?

Yes, you will have access to power points at your accommodation.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

Costs and payments

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Twin-share accommodation in comfortable cabins & lodge
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Water on trekking days
  • Local guide(s)
  • Entrance fees as per itinerary

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include: 

  • Flights
  • Airport transfers
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control.

 

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have travel insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Reviews

Past adventurers rated their overall experience on the Tasmania trek as 4.89 out of 5

★★★★★


“It exposed me to such fascinating, unique places led by friendly, capable guides and surrounded by other trekkers who were so nice, like-minded and interesting.”

Mandy Coats

Climate Council Tassie Trek for Climate Action 2021

★★★★★


“I was astonished at the vastness and the beauty.”

Romayne Westwood

Bob Brown Foundation: Into takayna/Tarkine 2018

★★★★★


“The highlight was walking into Montezuma Falls through the super lush rainforest after a big night of rain.”

Sarah Badman

The Smith Family’s Tasmania Trek 2018
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Responsible Travel

Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.
Meaningful connections: Hear from Aranda Elders who will tell us about the history of the area.
Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral. 
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good

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We’re a certified B Corp, committed to using business as a force for good.
As an Australian-owned business, Inspired Adventures recognises the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and honours their enduring relationship with the land, waters, and communities. We pay tribute to their cultures and extend our respect to their Elders, past and present.

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