Savage River Mine

Deep in the Tasmanian wilderness, Savage River Mine is an extraordinary testament to industrial ingenuity set against a backdrop of ancient rainforests. This remote iron-ore operation, accessible only via a winding gravel road, offers a rare glimpse into a working mine that has shaped the region's economy since the 1960s. The journey itself is an adventure—expect to encounter wallabies, towering eucalypts, and the raw beauty of the Tarkine region. While the mine is not open for public tours, the surrounding landscape and the dramatic transformation of the river (stained a deep rust-red by natural iron deposits) make it a fascinating detour for those with a keen interest in geology, mining history, or simply off-the-beaten-path exploration.

Highlights & What to See

• Corinna Wilderness Experience: Just south of the mine, this historic settlement on the Pieman River offers kayaking, river cruises, and a chance to spot platypuses at dawn.
• Tarkine Rainforest: The mine sits within one of Australia's largest temperate rainforests—drive the Tarkine Drive loop for ancient myrtle beech trees, waterfalls, and abundant birdlife.
• Savage River Lookout: A short walk near the mine entrance provides panoramic views of the rust-coloured river winding through the valley—a surreal sight.
• Mine History Trail: While the site itself is off-limits, interpretive signs at the turnoff explain the mine's history, from exploration to the slurry pipeline that carries ore 85 km to the coast.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate a full day to reach and explore the area from the nearest town, Waratah (about 1.5 hours drive). The gravel road to the mine is slow and requires a sturdy vehicle; plan for 2–3 hours at the site including the lookout and a picnic by the river. If you're continuing the Tarkine loop, consider an overnight stay at Corinna or the nearby Arthur River to fully absorb the wilderness.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Waratah: A historic mining town with a museum and the famous Philosopher's Falls walk.
• Arthur River: Known for its wild river cruises and the 'Edge of the World' where the Southern Ocean meets the Tasmanian coast.
• Corinna: A restored 19th-century gold-mining village offering Pieman River cruises and rainforest walks.
• Mount Bischoff: Another historic tin mine site near Waratah with scenic walking trails.
• Tarkine Drive: A 240 km self-drive loop connecting the region's highlights, including the Sumac Lookout and Dip Falls.

Please check official sources for current details.