Hiking through Douglas-Apsley National Park

When most people think about Tasmania, they picture Cradle Mountain, Wineglass Bay or maybe the Overland Track. But tucked away inland on the East Coast, Douglas-Apsley National Park quietly delivers one of the most authentic hiking experiences on the island — raw, uncrowded, and full of dry sclerophyll beauty that many visitors overlook.

Why Douglas-Apsley is still flying under the radar

Douglas-Apsley doesn’t shout for attention. There are no grand tourism signs or hordes of bushwalkers lining up at the trailhead. It’s a quiet corner of East Coast Tasmania, just north of Bicheno, where dry eucalyptus forest meets steep gorges and river-carved valleys. For those chasing proper hiking in Tasmania — minus the polished crowds — this is the place.

Getting there: A road less travelled on Tasmania’s East Coast

Visitors typically arrive from Bicheno, turning inland on Rosedale Road — a dry, dusty stretch that immediately signals adventure. There’s a small car park, a drop toilet, and a faded Parks & Wildlife sign warning that tracks may be rough and unmarked. It’s clear this is no manicured national park — it’s for those looking for the real thing.

Apsley Gorge and the river walk: A wild slice of solitude

The main walk is a 7 km loop descending into Apsley Gorge and returning via the Apsley River Waterhole. The descent is rocky but manageable, with towering sandstone cliffs glowing gold in the early morning light. Down below, the Apsley River winds through boulders and she-oaks. The riverbed walk is unformed — rock-hopping, dodging overhangs, and shallow fords are part of the deal. It’s rugged and real, and with any luck, hikers may have the place to themselves.

The Apsley Waterhole: A cool oasis in dry country

After about an hour of scrambling along the river, the Apsley River Waterhole appears — deep, still, and shaded by tall trees. It offers a refreshing place to cool off, especially on warmer days. This alone makes the walk worthwhile. It’s a classic nature walk in Tasmania with a hint of adventure.

What might surprise walkers on the trail

The variety of landscapes can be unexpected — parched scrubland shifts into fern-lined riverbeds with crystal-clear water. If lucky, visitors may spot wallabies darting through the undergrowth or hear the songs of native birdlife. For those seeking a family-friendly hike in Tasmania with a touch of wilderness, this can be a good fit — though the full loop may not suit young children, the shorter return to the waterhole could work well.

Tips for tackling this underrated hiking gem

Sturdy footwear is essential. This is bushwalking Tasmania at its most authentic. Bring plenty of water — it can get hot and dry in summer. Phone reception is unreliable, and there are no facilities beyond the basics. But for hikers wanting a taste of one of Tasmania’s more untouched national parks, Douglas-Apsley delivers on every front.

My verdict

Douglas-Apsley National Park is a deeply underrated pocket of Tasmania. It offers dry-country hiking with a genuine sense of wilderness — no crowds, no frills, just the crunch of leaves, the splash of river crossings, and perhaps a swim at the end of a hard walk. For travellers who have already explored the well-known sites and are ready for something wilder, this is a top pick.

Practical Information

  • Location: Douglas-Apsley National Park, 5 km inland from Bicheno, Tasmania
  • Opening times: Open year-round, 24/7 access
  • Park entry: Valid Tasmania Parks Pass required
  • Getting there: From Bicheno, follow Rosedale Road for approx. 7 km to reach the park entrance
  • Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal — summer can be hot and dry
  • Safety: No mobile reception, no drinking water, and track conditions can vary
  • Dress code: Wear sturdy hiking boots, hat, sun protection, and carry a map

More information