Things to do in West Coast

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Visit West Coast

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West Coast travel guide

In the western wilderness of Tasmania in Australia, there is a remote historic mining town which is rather beautiful and peaceful, named Corinna. It is the gateway to the Tarkine - second largest temperate rainforest in the world. I went there in a winter break, and pitched my tent (was the only tent there) just in front of this river - Pieman River (quite like the name). Almost after the gold sunset, fog started rising from the surface of Pieman River. Then, the whole tone went so #Blue! Everything was just right!

However, the second day, when I rented a kayak to explore surroundings by river, a tourism board caught my attention. It WAS nothing rather than description of this place, BUT this river turns out to be named after a convict who bacause of his repeated CANNIBALISM!!!! In the year of 1822, the convict Alexander Oearce finally recaptured, after few escapes, with bits of Thomas Cox's (another convict he escaped with) hands and fingers in his pockets. Even though I was horrified by this plausible true story, I finished reading the story with disgust for Pieman River.

Since I have already paied for the rental of a kayak, I figured that I have to go into the Pieman River with a sense of disgust. Fortunitely, the scenery was simply so great that I left behind that horribly inhuman story.

I took this shot on my way to climb Mt. Murchison. Had to stop and get that early morning mist.

Midlands featuring mountains, a lake or waterhole and tranquil scenes

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What to do in West Coast

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Nelson Falls

Delve into Tasmania’s dense temperate rainforest and find a mighty waterfall tumbling from a precipice of moss-covered rocks at the end of a pleasant stroll.

BACK TO THE CAVE MAN
Story and pics by Ian Smith
I’m meeting Gerry today, a 65 year old Tasmanian who’s seen most of the island state, way more than I’ll ever cover in a lifetime. I’m tagging along with him to Julius Creek, a semi-obscure destination that he wants to return to – and who am I to argue? It’s mildly famous among the bushwalking fraternity because it has caves so I’m expecting to be in a dark place sometime in the ensuing hours.
We’re somewhat tardy in heading out and I’m not sure exactly what we’ll be doing other than the caves, I’m just happy to have a guide. Our first stop is Edith Creek general store/café/service station – you name it they’ll have a go. In fact, talking to one of the owners later, he’s managed to start a profitable business utilizing the wood that the forestry company doesn’t want, finding many uses for the initially rejected timber.
Gerry however, is taking me to what the tourist image of the fabled Tarkine is, pristine Gondwana forest swathed in lichen and moss. There’s a new loop road not far from Edith Creek. Actually, it’s not new, but the sealing of it and promotion as a tourist destination is. Where Gerry’s taking me will not be on any serious promoter’s list in the foreseeable future though; I figure that out as we turn off one road onto another, then another and it’s a dirt road in the midst of becoming overgrown by forest with grasses and reedy-type plants as high as the bonnet running down the middle.
For some unknown reason I thought we were headed to a less obscure destination but here, the only way you know you’ve arrived is if you happen to spot the one lone piece of pink ribbon affixed to small branch. Had Gerry not mentioned it I’d have driven right by but there’s also a slightly wide part of the road, so called, where, after several backwards and forwards motions, you can actually turn around, which is just as well because I wouldn’t fancy reversing up our route.
This walk is as close to virgin as you can get; the track, such as it is, can only be followed if you keep your eyes out for the ribbons because there’s little wear and tear in some places, especially where a log has fallen down and alternate routes have been sought. This is wilderness in it truest form and we make our way down and across a small watercourse, so obscure you can walk across it and not get the top of your shoes wet.
Fungi and moss love it down here beneath the tertiary growth of this forest plus tree ferns and there’s also some large leaved plant with fruit that look just like blueberries scattered liberally across the forest floor. Gerry reliably informs me that they’re Tasmanian native pepper and I later look it up and see that it has attracted interest in medical research because it retards growth of Staph Aureus and other nasties.

Sumac Regional Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Sumac Regional Reserve, a lovely green space in West Coast. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Reece Dam

Learn about the local history of West Coast with a stop at Reece Dam. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Huskisson River Regional Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Huskisson River Regional Reserve, a lovely green space in West Coast. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Savage River National Park

Explore the great outdoors at Savage River National Park, a lovely green space in West Coast. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Burns Peak Regional Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Burns Peak Regional Reserve, a lovely green space in West Coast. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Julius River Regional Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Julius River Regional Reserve, a lovely green space in West Coast. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Lake Beatrice Conservation Area

Explore the great outdoors at Lake Beatrice Conservation Area, a lovely green space in West Coast. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Luncheon Hill Regional Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Luncheon Hill Regional Reserve, a lovely green space in West Coast. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

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Cradle Mountain

Frequently asked questions

Is West Coast worth visiting?

Providing a blend of views and nature, there are plenty of things to do in West Coast. While you're here, check out Heazlewood Hill Conservation Area, a top attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in West Coast?

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Heazlewood Hill Conservation Area. Then, explore different areas of West Coast for a quick bite and some retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in West Coast?

The top tourist attraction in West Coast is Heazlewood Hill Conservation Area, so make sure to put it on your sightseeing agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in West Coast?

Three days is enough for a short break in West Coast — you'll hit the main attractions and get a good feel for the place. But if you truly want to soak it all in, visit for at least a week to explore some hidden gems too.

What are some activities to do in West Coast with kids?

If you're looking for attractions and activities for all ages, check out these fantastic ideas for what to do in West Coast with kids.

What to do in West Coast for adults?

From delicious food and cultural attractions to thrilling activities and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are many fascinating things to do in West Coast for adults.

Are there free things to do in West Coast?

From relaxing in parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in West Coast. If you're in need of ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Heazlewood Hill Conservation Area is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing adventures.