Western Arthurs Traverse, Tasmania, Australia, 2002

 

COUNTRIES



Distance :  72 km (descending from Lake Roseanne to the Arthurs Plains)

Avg.Time :   6 daysc_4

Start / Finish :

  • Scotts Peak Dam.
  • Three hours by road from Hobart. Unfortunately, at the time of writing, regular bus services to Scotts Peak Dam from Hobart are no longer running. You may have to book something privately. See the following link for transport options: http://www.parks.tas.gov.au/?base=5766

Season :

  • February and March are your best chance of fine (relatively speaking) conditions. That being said, snow and heavy rain are possible at any time of year.

Maps / Info :

  • TASMAP 1:100,000 Old River covers the entire route. Can also be purchased at outdoor stores throughout Tasmania.
  • John Chapman’s South West Tasmania includes maps and trekking notes. Highly recommended. Now in its 5th edition (2008).

Route / Conditons :

  • The Arthurs Range is subject to some of the wildest weather imaginable. Be prepared.
  • The plains are very muddy. Gaiters are useful, however, chances are the mud will occasionally be up over your knees.
  • Walking along the jagged crest of the range is often exposed, and there are sections in which extreme care must be taken. Some scrambling required. Suffice to say it can be slow going at times. Not for beginners.

Sleeping :

  • Bring a tent. Make sure it is waterproof and holds up well in a storm.
  • Due to the popularity of this trail, timber tent platforms have been built at some of the more frequently used campsites.

Overview :

  • Fantastic hike. Arguably the most spectacular in Australia.
  • Not recommended for the inexperienced. If this is your first time hiking in this part of the world, the South Coast Track may be a better initial option.
  • Keep your base weight as low as possible (see Going Light). With all the scrambling and mud-slogging involved, the last thing you want to be doing is carrying an excessively heavy pack.