The Tyndall Ranges are set to host a new three-day, two-night hut-to-hut trail – and it could become Tasmania’s next big walking experience.
Tasmania is gearing up for its next major hiking drawcard, with plans progressing for a new multi-day walk across the rugged Tyndall Ranges on the state’s remote West Coast. The proposed Next Iconic Walk would follow a similar model to the wildly popular Three Capes Walk – one of the Great Walks of Australia – offering a Class T3 “boot-standard" track, comfortable hut accommodation and a high level of facilities, opening up the region to travellers with a wider range of walking experience.
The proposed Next Iconic Walk is in the Tyndall Ranges. (Image: Matty Eaton)
Watch the aurora australis from the Tyndall Ranges. (Image: allaboutadventure)
The walk would unfold across sweeping alpine ridges. (Image: Matty Eaton)
Plans are progressing for the new multi-day walk. (Image: Matty Eaton)
Set between Lake Plimsoll in the north and the historic Lake Margaret Power Station in the south, the walk would unfold across sweeping alpine ridges, glacier-carved lakes, ancient rainforest pockets and dramatic rocky outcrops that characterise this little-seen part of Lutruwita/Tasmania. A series of purpose-built eco-huts would anchor the three-day, two-night journey, creating a curated, hut-to-hut style experience.
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service reviewed 35 potential locations across the state before identifying the Tyndall Range – one of Australia’s best locations for watching the sunset – as the preferred site. A detailed feasibility study then explored more than 50 possible route options, ultimately recommending the three-day, two-night hut-based journey now on the table.
The project forms part of the state government’s plan to boost visitation to regional areas, with the West Coast singled out as a place where nature-based tourism could help support local communities. By offering a more accessible – but still immersive – walking product, the Next Iconic Walk aims to encourage visitors to stay longer, spend more and discover a side of Tasmania that many travellers overlook.
An indicative opening could be slated for summer 2029. (Image: Matty Eaton)
The walk will likely boost visitation to regional areas. (Image: Matty Eaton)
The public consultation period is open until 21 November 2025. (Image: Matty Eaton)
If endorsed, construction could begin in 2026. (Image: Matty Eaton)
Nature-based tourism could help support local West Coast communities. (Image: Matty Eaton)
It'll be a three-day, two-night, hut-to-hut style journey. (Image: Matty Eaton)
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service has now released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Next Iconic Walk, with the public consultation period officially open until 21 November 2025.
The Draft EIS follows years of engagement with Tasmanians. An initial callout drew 24 public proposals, including two nominating the Tyndall Range. Since then, more than 1900 individuals, tourism operators, industry groups and specialists in track design and environmental management have contributed through workshops, site inspections and formal consultations between 2021 and 2025. In 2024, more than 2000 people also took part in targeted market research to help shape the visitor experience.
Feedback submitted during the ‘Have Your Say’ period will inform refinements before the proposal progresses to additional assessment processes. If endorsed, construction could begin in 2026, with an indicative opening slated for summer 2029, though final timelines will depend on final designs, site conditions and statutory approvals.
While the full route and construction schedule are still being refined, early visuals and concept reports position the walk as a major new addition to Tasmania’s lineup of headline hiking experiences. If realised, it could diversify the state’s nature-based offering at a time when Tassie is seeing record demand for hiking, wellness and wilderness escapes.
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
Tasmania’s crisp clear air, misty mountains, lakes and ancient forests beckon as winter approaches.
Travelling in the off season has many benefits, none more so in Tasmania, where it’s uncrowded and uncomplicated. Ease into winter with a getaway that spells relaxing with a glass of wine or local whisky, bathing under the stars, or gazing at reflections in pristine waters. Add fireside dining, wilderness walks, after-dark gallery visits and plenty of history and you’ve got a curated winter escape designed to make travelling in the quieter months of the year even more rewarding. NRMA Parks and Resorts’ Off Season Signature Packages across Tasmania (plus 10 per cent off for members) make all these things possible.
Cosy up at Cradle Mountain
Immerse into the wilderness at Cradle Mountain Hotel.
For an alpine wilderness experience like no other, chose Cradle Mountain Hotel for a winter getaway. You may even wake up to gently falling snow. Explore nearby Dove Lake, gaze at Cradle Mountain is and listen to the gush of waterfalls.
As Cradle Mountain works its charm, slow down to enjoy the crisp alpine air away from the hustle of the city. There are no crowds here, just serenity and the chance to recalibrate.
Cradle Mountain’s Off Season Signature Package includes two or more nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, a bottle of wine (Retreat rom bookings only) and off-season dessert with dinner. Then sip on mulled wine as you wander through the Wilderness Gallery admiring the work of Tasmanian artists.
Finding the flavours of Freycinet
Stay at the only accommodation within beautiful Freycinet National Park.
As the only accommodation within Freycinet National Park, among the many reasons for staying at Freycinet Lodge is its easy access to stunning Wineglass Bay, Mt Amos and Honeymoon Bay.
By day it’s the place for communing with nature, taking hikes in some of Tasmania’s most beautiful locations. By night, savour the regional seasonal flavours of the east coast, sip mulled wine to keep out the chill and gaze up at the star-studded skies. This is slow coastal indulgence at its best.
Freycinet Lodge’s Off Season Signature Package includes two or more nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, a hosted Flavours of the East Coast food and wine tasting experience and mulled wine under the stars, or beside the fire, after dinner.
Escape to lakeside Pumphouse Point
Stay cosy while looking out onto Lake St Clair.
Set on the edge of beautiful Lake St Clair in native bushland in the heart of Tasmania’s Central Highlands, Pumphouse Point has launched a new era for its boutique accommodation with the opening of two new luxury retreat rooms last October.
Each of the trio of rooms are thoughtfully designed, with an indoor fireplace and deep-soak bathtub, both perfect for a winter escape. This retreat offers dining and an expanded collection of hosted experiences, including a guided tour to learn more about this historic place, chocolate tastings and whisky tasting from local artisans – with more to come later in the season.
Borrow an e-bike and explore on your own, throw a line in, head off for a hike in the ancient forests that surround the lake, book a relaxing massage, or just settle in for an evening by the fire as the lake works its own magic.
Pumphouse Point’s Off Season Signature Package includes two or more nights’ accommodation, breakfast, larder lunch and dinner, a bottle of wine with dinner each night, and a chocolate or whisky tasting experience, as well as two $50 massage vouchers.
Slow down in Strahan Village
Explore UNESCO world heritage wilderness.
As the gateway to UNESCO world heritage wilderness, picturesque Strahan Village is the ideal base for exploring Tassie’s west coast. With a wide range of accommodation choices, from cosy waterfront colonial-style cottages to hotel rooms with sweeping views over Macquarie Harbour, it’s the perfect place for slow travel.
Join Gordon River Cruises to explore ancient wilderness and magical reflections on the Gordon River, wander through the village at your own pace or hire a bike to discover local secrets and attractions, including the iconic West Coast Wilderness Railway . Thrill-seekers can hire taboggans to hit the towering Henty Dunes.
Glamp under the stars at Port Arthur Holiday Park.
Spend your evenings glamping under the stars and your days stepping back in time as you explore the captivating stories of the World Heritage listed Port Arthur Historic Site. Port Arthur Holiday Park is the perfect base for exploring the Tasman Peninsula and uncovering the stories of Australia’s colonial and convict past.
Surrounded by nature and history, this off-season escape has the all the makings of an unforgettable getaway. All glamping tents are heated to keep you warm during the off-season months when the nights get a little cooler, and have private bathrooms. Stargazing tents have the added luxury of an outdoor bath on the verandah.
The Port Arthur Off Season Signature Package includes two or more nights’ accommodation, a Port Arthur Historic Site tour for two and 10 per cent discount for dining at local restaurant On The Bay during your stay.
