Taking a day trip into Tasmania’s wild heart is an adventure many travelers dream of, and this tour from Hobart offers just that. Although I haven’t personally experienced it, reviews and descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded, captivating journey that combines breathtaking scenery with educational insights.

What makes this tour shine? Firstly, the knowledgeable guides like David, who share personal stories and expert info, add a layer of authenticity. Then, the stunning views of Lake Pedder and Gordon Dam are enough to leave anyone awestruck. Lastly, the wide variety of stops, from rainforest walks to dam crossings, keeps the day engaging and diverse. One thing to consider is the weather, which can be unpredictable, so packing appropriate gear is key.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Tasmania’s rugged landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It offers a balanced mix of scenic vistas, active exploration, and relaxed picnicking, making it perfect for those wanting an authentic wilderness experience.

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Key Points

Expert guides like David provide in-depth knowledge and a personal touch.
Stunning vistas across Lake Pedder, Gordon Dam, and mountain ranges.
Diverse stops offering rainforest walks, dam crossings, and lookout points.
Suitable for most travelers with short walks and accessible viewpoints.
Value for money considering the included transportation, multiple stops, and expert commentary.
Weather considerations are important; packing for rain or wind enhances the experience.

Exploring Tasmania’s Wilderness: The Full Experience

This tour promises a full-day exploration into some of Tasmania’s most impressive natural sites. Starting early at 8:00 am at 20 Davey Street in Hobart, the journey quickly moves westward, following the Lyell Highway into the wilderness. The nearly 10-hour itinerary is packed with sights, stories, and scenic moments.

Looking for more options in Hobart? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

First Stop: Historic New Norfolk

Our adventure begins with a quick 50-minute stop in New Norfolk, a town founded in 1807. Here, you can grab lunch and hot drinks from a local bakery—a nice, casual beginning that sets a relaxed tone. The town itself has an old-world charm, and you might appreciate this brief taste of local history before heading into the wild.

Creepy Crawly Trail: Forest Exploration

Next, you’ll enter the lush eucalyptus forest along the Gordon River Road. The highlight is the Creepy Crawly Walk, a 40-minute stroll through temperate rainforest. The guide takes you over logs and stairs, offering insights into the local flora and fauna. This walk is described as informative, with some reviewers noting the need to bend and climb—so comfortable footwear and readiness for a bit of light adventure are recommended.

One reviewer, Iris_Q, mentioned that despite the rain, the extra windbreakers provided made the experience comfortable. The rainforest walk is perfect for nature enthusiasts interested in learning about Tasmania’s trees and ecosystems in an accessible, easy walk.

Lake Pedder’s Teds Beach Campground

From the rainforest, the journey continues to Teds Beach on Lake Pedder, where you can walk along the shoreline, feel the sand between your toes, or even dip into the lake—weather permitting. The lake’s striking white quartzite sands and tannin-stained waters create a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape.

David, the tour guide, adds a layer of depth with his expert knowledge of botany, geology, and lakes. The stop here lasts about 1 hour 40 minutes, giving plenty of time to relax, take photos, or just soak in the peaceful scenery. Reviewers like Robert_S appreciated the contrast of the steep mountains and sweeping lake views, emphasizing how these sights can feel like stepping into a different world.

Lake Pedder Lookout: Bird’s Eye View

A brief drive takes you to the Lake Pedder Lookout, a spot that offers a sweeping view of the lake and the surrounding mountain ranges. It’s a perfect snapshot of the area’s rugged beauty. At 20 minutes, this is a quick but impactful stop, ideal for photos and catching your breath before the next adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Hobart

The Iconic Gordon Dam

The star of the tour is the Gordon Dam, which stands 140 meters high—making it Australia’s tallest arch dam. Walking across the dam walkway is a thrill; the sheer scale and the dizzying height are enough to send shivers down your spine. From here, you can gaze straight down into the gorge 35 stories below or admire the surrounding temperate rainforest on one side and Lake Gordon on the other.

David shares personal stories, including how he helped determine the dam’s volume while working for Hydro Tasmania—adding a layer of authenticity. The walk over the dam is about 1 hour 10 minutes, with plenty of time for photos and soaking in the impressive engineering feat.

Nob Hill and Gordon Dam Lookouts

Afterwards, you’ll get even higher perspectives from Nob Hill and Gordon Dam lookouts. One reviewer claimed, “I believe I can fly,” capturing how breathtaking the vista can be. These lookouts offer panoramic views, giving visitors a sense of the scale and grandeur of Tasmania’s landscape.

Exploring the Southwest National Park

Throughout the day, you’ll traverse part of the South West National Park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tasmanian Wilderness. Expect to see steep quartzite mountains, button grass plains, and lush eucalypt forests. The area is known for its rugged beauty and untouched wilderness, ideal for those who want to see a true slice of Tasmania’s remote terrain.

Brief Stop in Maydena

On the way back, a short stop at Maydena introduces a historic timber town surrounded by forest plantations. Here, you’ll catch views of sometimes snow-capped peaks of Mount Field National Park, adding variety to your day. The town’s timber houses and mountain bike trails give a glimpse into the local history and outdoor culture.

Returning to Hobart

The return journey along the scenic Derwent Valley takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes, providing a restful end to a highly active day. The entire tour wraps up back at your starting point in Hobart around 5:30 pm.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews echo the positive impressions: David’s guidance stands out, with many mentioning his personal stories and in-depth knowledge. Iris_Q highlighted how the weather was rainy but manageable thanks to the prepared gear, noting that the Creepy Crawly Walk might require some bending and climbing. Robert_S pointed out the wetter and colder conditions but still found the experience “a different world,” emphasizing the uniqueness of Tasmania’s wilderness.

One guest even described feeling like they could “fly” from one lookout, illustrating how stunning the views are. The overall tone from reviewers suggests that this is a well-organized, authentic experience that balances scenic beauty with educational commentary.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Transportation is by an air-conditioned vehicle, comfortably accommodating up to 10 travelers—making it intimate but not crowded. The tour is priced at $171.93 per person, which includes all stops and the guide, but lunch is not included—so plan to bring or buy your own during the New Norfolk stop. The tour is suitable for most travelers with good mobility, as the walks are generally short and accessible, though the rainforest walk may involve some bending and climbing.

Weather can influence the experience; rain or wind might make some parts wetter and more challenging, but the guides prepare accordingly. Since the tour is booked on average 97 days in advance, it’s clear that it’s popular among those who want to plan ahead for this unique day out.

Final Thoughts

This Hobart-based tour offers a detailed, engaging exploration of Tasmania’s wilderness, perfect for travelers who want to see iconic landscapes without the hassle of self-driving. The mix of scenic viewpoints, active walks, and educational commentary makes it a well-rounded experience. The guides, especially David, add personal insights that elevate the trip from just sightseeing to learning and discovery.

The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive approach—covering dam engineering marvels, pristine lakes, lush rainforests, and rugged mountain vistas—all in one day. It’s suited for nature lovers, photography buffs, and curious explorers eager to understand Tasmania’s wild side.

While the weather can be unpredictable, the experience remains rewarding for those prepared. With a small group size and expert guidance, this trip offers intimacy and attention that larger tours often lack. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a genuine, memorable taste of Tasmania’s untouched landscapes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and all the stops described, including the rainforest walk, dam crossing, and lookout visits.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You can buy food at the New Norfolk stop or bring your own.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 9 hours 30 minutes, including travel, stops, and sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a rain jacket—since the weather can be wet and windy.

Are the walks difficult?
Most walks are short and easy, but the Creepy Crawly Walk involves stairs and some bending, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved and weather conditions.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of expert guides, stunning views, and the opportunity to walk across Australia’s tallest arch dam makes it a standout experience.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore Tasmania’s rugged landscapes without self-driving hassles.

Whether you’re after spectacular scenery, an educational adventure, or just a day away from city life, this tour offers a balanced and authentic taste of Tasmania’s wilderness.