East Tasmania National Parks & Wildlife

Ben Lomond National Park

Ben Lomond National Park is situated just 60km south-east of Launceston, an easy one hour drive along the picturesque North Esk River Valley. The park lies more than 1 300 metres above sea level on a large plateau above Tasmania's northern midlands, and is the country's major ski field offering excellent downhill and cross country skiing in the winter. Spectacular wildflowers and wildlife may be seen on the many beautiful alpine walks.

Douglas Apsley National Park

Situated in the middle of the East Coast, Douglas Apsley National Park is Tasmania's newest park. Spectacular river gorges, waterfalls, tranquil pools, large stands of dry eucalypt and pockets of rainforest combine to make a visit to the park a memorable experience.

Mount William National Park

Mount William National Park serves as a refuge for the Forester kangaroo, the only large kangaroo left in Tasmania. The main road through the park, called Forester Kangaroo Drive, was specially built for viewing animals. A total area of 13 812ha includes beaches, heathland and dry scleropyll forests. There is an abundance of wildlife and a number of plant communities found nowhere else in Australia.

Freycinet National Park

Situated 212km north-east of Hobart Freycinet National Park is accessed through the town of Coles Bay. Three spectacular rugged red granite peaks, Amos, Dove, and Mayson are surrounded by charming bays rocky headlands and white sandy beaches, including the world famous Wineglass Bay. There many good walks including a day walk around the peninsula with a lunch stop at Cookes Beach and a walk to the top of the Hazard's which offers fantastic views.

Maria Island National Park

Located six kilometres offshore the island is accessed either by a short ferry ride from Triabunna or by light aircraft. Maria Island was Tasmania's second penal settlement and later became a convict probation station, grazing property, the site for vineyards, and a cement works. Finally the island was declared a National Park and wildlife sanctuary, mainly for the breeding of threatened indigenous wildlife. The two halfs of the island are linked by a sandy isthmus and covered mainly with eucalypt forests, interspersed with coastal heath, while the east coast is mainly rugged steep cliffs.

There are dedicated camping grounds on the island or alternatively accommodation is available in the bunkhouses of the former penitentiary. All provisions must be taken to the island as there are no shops.