South Coast Track
Please note: The Port Davey and South Coast Tracks are challenging walks in a region of Tasmania exposed to harsh weather conditions. There are no huts along the tracks. Walkers must be fully self-sufficient, well-equipped and experienced.
These walking tracks lie entirely within the Southwest National Park and take you through the heart of over 600 000 hectares of wild, inspiring country. They are more remote than some other walks in Tasmania, such as the Overland Track. It is recommended that you gain experience on other Tasmanian walking tracks before attempting them, as you will be a long way from help should you need it.
The 70 km Port Davey Track is used by walkers between Scotts Peak Road and Melaleuca, while the 85 km South Coast Track is used by walkers between Cockle Creek and Melaleuca. There are no roads to Melaleuca, so walkers must either fly, sail or walk in and out.
Most people take about 6 to 8 days to complete the South Coast Track, depending upon time spent enjoying the beaches. Walkers should note that the track surface may be rough and muddy over extended sections.
New River Lagoon
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Most people take about 4 to 5 days to complete the Port Davey Track and can either fly out at Melaleuca or continue along the South Coast Track to Cockle Creek, a further 6-8 days walk. The Port Davey Track has some steep and muddy sections.
When to walk
Most people walk during the warmer months from December to March, but walkers must be prepared for cold winds and heavy rain at any time of year. Check the latest weather forecast before starting your trip.
It’s possible (but not advisable) to walk the track in winter, or alone, as long as you have good equipment, thorough experience and are well prepared. However, walking in winter and alone is definitely not advised.
What to bring
It's essential to have a good tent, large waterproof raincoat, warm sleeping bag, sleeping mat, fuel stove (the whole area is a Fuel Stove Only area), thermal top & leggings, a fleecy or woollen jumper, warm hat, broad-brimmed sunhat, map, water bottle, large strong plastic bag to waterproof the inside of your pack, gaiters and worn-in boots. It’s also essential to carry a trowel, for digging a toilet hole for faecal waste only.
A full gear check list can be found in our Essential Bushwalking Guide.
Maps
The double-sided 1:100,000 scale map called 'South Coast Walks' is the best for the South Coast Track and the Port Davey Track. It shows all tracks, huts, landing strips, plus text on walking notes, heritage and safety information.
Fees and permits
You are required to pay a fee and have a pass before entering a National Park (e.g. before flying to Melaleuca). The most convenient pass for these walks is the Backpacker Pass. This pass is valid for all National Parks for a period of two months. Passes are available from the Geeveston Visitor Information Centre.
Huts and camping
The Southwest National Park is a wilderness area. There are no walkers huts along the South Coast or Port Davey tracks. The only huts are at Melaleuca. Very basic accommodation for 20 people is provided in the two huts at Melaleuca. Water and mattresses are available but there are no cooking facilities so bring a fuel stove.
The recommended campsites for the South Coast Track are Cockle Creek, South Cape Rivulet, Granite Beach (east), Surprise Bay, New River Lagoon Boat Crossing, Deadmans Bay, Louisa River, Point Eric and Melaleuca.
The recommended campsites for the Port Davey Track are Huon River Campground at Scotts Peak, Junction Creek, Crossing River, Spring River, Bathurst Narrows and Melaleuca.
Walking times
Walk times given are what the average walker would expect to travel in good conditions. If you are new to bushwalking or the weather conditions deteriorate you can expect to travel for longer times.
Port Davey Track
Scotts Peak to Junction Creek - 3 hours
Junction Creek to Watershed Camp - 8 hours
Watershed Camp to Spring River - 5 hours
Spring River to Melaleuca - 10 hours
South Coast Track
Melaleuca to Cox Bight - 4 hours
Cox Bight to Louisa River - 6 hours
Louisa River to Deadmans Bay - 10 hours
Deadmans Bay to New River Lagoon - 4 hours
New River Lagoo to Granite Beach- 5 hours
Granite Beach to South Cape Rivulet- 7 hours
South Cape Rivulet to Cockle Creek- 4 hours
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