Douglas Apsley National Park

Douglas Apsley National Park is a wild, untamed slice of Tasmania's East Coast, offering a refreshingly uncrowded wilderness experience. Just a short drive from Launceston, this park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, with its ancient dry sclerophyll forests, sparkling waterholes, and dramatic gorges. It's a place where you can truly disconnect – there are no visitor centres or sealed roads, just raw, beautiful bushland waiting to be explored on foot.

Highlights & What to See

• Apsley Waterhole – A stunning natural swimming hole at the end of a 3 km walk from the main car park. The clear, cool water is perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day, surrounded by towering eucalypts and rocky cliffs.
• Leeawuleena (Apsley Gorge) – A dramatic gorge carved by the Apsley River, with spectacular views from the lookout. The contrast of orange-hued rock against deep green forest is a photographer's dream.
• Walking Tracks – The park offers several well-marked trails, from short strolls to the challenging 2–3 day Douglas Apsley Circuit. The Stony Ridge Track provides panoramic views over the park and out to the coast.
• Wildlife Spotting – Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of birdlife including wedge-tailed eagles and green rosellas. The park is also home to the rare Tasmanian devil.
• Camping by the River – For a true wilderness experience, camp at one of the basic campsites along the Apsley River. There are no facilities, so you'll need to be self-sufficient – but the solitude is unparalleled.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors can experience the highlights in a half-day trip from Launceston, allowing time for a walk to Apsley Waterhole and a swim. If you're keen on longer hikes or camping, allocate a full day or overnight. The park is best visited between spring and autumn, as winter can be wet and cold. For a more immersive experience, the full Douglas Apsley Circuit requires 2–3 days and a good level of fitness.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cataract Gorge – Just minutes from Launceston's city centre, this stunning natural attraction offers walking trails, a chairlift, and the world's longest single-span suspension bridge. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon after your bushwalk.
• Freycinet National Park – About an hour's drive south, Freycinet is home to the iconic Wineglass Bay. Combine the rugged wilderness of Douglas Apsley with the coastal beauty of Freycinet for a varied East Coast itinerary.
• Bay of Fires – Head north along the coast to the Bay of Fires, known for its brilliant orange lichen-covered boulders and pristine white beaches. Great for swimming, kayaking, and photography.
• St Columba Falls – A short detour from the highway to one of Tasmania's tallest waterfalls, set in lush rainforest. A quick and rewarding stop on your way to or from the park.
• Bicheno – A charming fishing village with a vibrant seafood scene and the famous Bicheno Blowhole. It's a great base for exploring the nearby parks and coastline.

Please check official sources for current details.