The South-West of Tasmania is one of the last great temperate wilderness areas on earth. It is a vast, roadless expanse of quartzite peaks, ancient rainforest, wild rivers, and buttongrass plains — part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and almost entirely uninhabited.
For experienced bushwalkers, the South-West is the real deal. Unlike the well-trodden Overland Track in the Central Highlands, trails here are rough, unmarked, or non-existent. You can walk for days without seeing another person. The South West Cape Track and the Western Arthurs Traverse are two of the most challenging multi-day walks in Australia — both require serious fitness, navigation skills, and self-sufficiency.
The price of all this wildness is the weather. The South-West catches the full force of cold fronts sweeping in from the Southern Ocean. Rain, wind, and sudden temperature drops can occur at any time of year. Mud, leeches, dense scrub, and limited campsites are part of the experience. Carry extra food and clothing for at least two unplanned days.
The main access points are from the road end at Scotts Peak Dam (for the South Coast Track) and by light aircraft to Melaleuca airstrip (for the South West Cape Track). There is no public transport — you will need to arrange your own logistics.