Field Guide
Walks
From the casual walker to the hard-core BACKpack-wielding superhuman,there’s something for you.
The West Coast is home to some of Australia’s most untouched and untamed wilderness - and the best way to connect with it is to explore it on foot.
Check out our Walks listings for details on the best West Coast Walks - below you'll find helpful information regarding what to take on your walks (on the West Coast you need to be prepared, if nothing else), along with an explanation of the various walk levels.
Required Items
Group A: Sturdy walking shoes or boots, sun hat, sun block, sunglasses, clothes suited to the day, and water.
Group B: Group A + raincoat, woollen jumper or fibre pile jacket, snacks or drink.
Group C: Group A & B + thermal leggings or shorts, warm hat or beanie, gloves, waterproof trousers, gaiters, lunch, drink, and map.
You need to be prepared for cold weather, even in summer months. We’ve been known to have highland snowfall in January.
Walk Levels
Grade 1: No bushwalking experience, flat even surface, suitable for wheelchair users who have assistance.
Grade 2: No bushwalking experience, may have a gentle hill section and steps.
Grade 3: Suitable for most ages and fitness levels, some bushwalking experience recommended, may have steep hills, rough surface, and many steps.
Highlights
Lake Burbury
Lake Burbury is a popular fishing lake on the edge of Tasmania's World Heritage Wilderness Area. A 20-minute drive east of Queenstown. Facilities include toilets, picnic, barbecue facilities, along with boat launching facilities. A caretaker lives on site.
West Coast Reflections Exhibition
Architects, writers, woodturners, gardeners and historians contributed their talents to the acclaimed exhibition West Coast Reflections at the West Coast Visitor Information and Booking Centre.
Franklin River Nature Trail
Perhaps the best-known river within the World Heritage area, this walk through cool temperate rainforest will give you an idea of the beauty that lies within this wild river wilderness. This walk along the banks Franklin River will take approximately 25 minutes return (1km).