Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Carved by some of the most powerful rivers on Earth, Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is a pristine wilderness of temperate rainforest, quartzite gorges and roaring rapids. Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, this park offers an immersive encounter with ancient Gondwanan landscapes. The Franklin and Gordon rivers are the lifeblood here, drawing rafters, kayakers and hikers seeking true isolation. Whether you're navigating the Franklin River's rapids or walking through myrtle and sassafras forest, the sheer force of nature is palpable.

Highlights & What to See

• Franklin River Rafting – A multi-day white-water expedition through narrow gorges and dense rainforest; one of Australia's classic wilderness adventures.
• Gordon River Cruise – A serene boat journey past mirror-still water reflections of ancient Huon pines and rugged cliffs.
• Frenchmans Cap – A striking quartzite peak offering a challenging multi-day hike with panoramic views over the wild rivers.
• Donaghys Hill Lookout – A short walk to a viewpoint over the Franklin River valley, perfect for photographers.
• Nelson Falls – An easy boardwalk trail leads to a stunning 30-metre waterfall cascading over mossy rocks.
• Lyell Highway – The main road through the park provides scenic stops and access to short walks, especially near the Franklin River bridge.

Suggested Time to Spend

For a taste of the park, allow at least half a day to drive the Lyell Highway with stops at Donaghys Hill and Nelson Falls. If you're a serious hiker or rafter, plan for 3–7 days to tackle the Franklin River or summit Frenchmans Cap. Most visitors combine a Gordon River cruise (from Strahan) with a day exploring the park's accessible walks, making for a solid two-day itinerary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Strahan – Gateway town on Macquarie Harbour, offering Gordon River cruises, the West Coast Wilderness Railway, and Huon pine craft shops.
• Queenstown – Historic mining town with a lunar-like landscape; stop for the mining museum and the West Coast Wilderness Railway terminus.
• Lake St Clair – Tasmania's deepest lake, within Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, a two-hour drive east for hiking and water activities.
• Mount Field National Park – Famous for Russell Falls and tall swamp gums, about 1.5 hours east of the park's boundary.
• Southwest National Park – Vast wilderness adjoining Franklin-Gordon, accessible by flight or multi-day walks from Cockle Creek.

Please check official sources for current details.