Mount William National Park

Mount William National Park occupies the northeastern tip of Tasmania, a wild and wind-swept peninsula where the Bass Strait meets the Tasman Sea. This is a place of dramatic coastal heathlands, granite peaks, and abundant wildlife — including the largest population of Forester kangaroos in the state. The park feels remote and untamed, yet it’s easily accessible from Launceston, making it a superb day trip or a stop on a longer self-drive itinerary along the Bay of Fires or the Great Eastern Drive.

Highlights & What to See

• Forester Kangaroo Spotting: Mount William is famous for its healthy population of Forester kangaroos – the largest kangaroo species in Tasmania. Dawn and dusk are best for sightings, especially around the park’s grassy clearings.
• Mt William Summit Walk: A short but steep climb to the 216-metre summit rewards you with panoramic views over the park, the rugged coastline, and across Bass Strait to the Furneaux Group islands.
• Eddystone Point Lighthouse: This striking pink-granite lighthouse (built 1889) sits on a headland with stunning ocean views. The surrounding beach is a beautiful spot for a picnic.
• Coastal Heaths and Beaches: Explore the windswept heathlands and pristine sandy coves, such as Deep Creek and Stumpy Bay, perfect for a peaceful walk or a bracing swim.
• Birdwatching: The park is a haven for birdlife, including wedge-tailed eagles, peregrine falcons, and the endangered forty-spotted pardalote.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend half a day exploring Mount William National Park, which is enough time to drive the scenic roads, tackle the summit walk, and see the lighthouse. If you’re keen on wildlife photography or longer coastal hikes, plan a full day. The park is best visited between November and March when the weather is milder and the wildflowers are in bloom. Combine it with a visit to the Bay of Fires or the nearby town of St Helens for a more comprehensive Tasmanian northeast experience.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bay of Fires Conservation Area: Just south of Mount William, this stretch of coastline is famous for its orange-hued granite boulders, turquoise waters, and white-sand beaches – a must-see for any road trip.
• St Helens: The largest town in the region, offering accommodation, dining, and access to the Bay of Fires and the Georges Bay estuary.
• Binalong Bay: The northern gateway to the Bay of Fires, with a lovely beach and holiday vibe.
• Cataract Gorge: A spectacular natural attraction in Launceston, with walking trails, a chairlift, and a swimming basin – perfect for a stop on your way to or from Mount William.
• Bridport: A charming coastal town with a golf course and beautiful beaches, located on the route between Launceston and the national park.

Please check official sources for current details.