The Southwest National Park encompasses much of the southwest wilderness region of Tasmania. It can be accessed by road in two ways:
via Maydena
Allow 2 1/2 to 3 hours from Hobart to reach the northern boundary of the Southwest National Park. From the Lyell Highway (A10) at New Norfolk take route B62 past Mt Field National Park to Maydena. The Gordon River Road (B61) continues to Strathgordon and the Gordon Dam. At Frodsham Pass on the Gordon River Road, a winding gravel road turns off to Scotts Peak and the Huon Campground. Fuel is not available past Maydena.
via Cockle Creek
Cockle Creek is about 2 hours drive south from Hobart. It is reached via the Huon Highway (A6) through Geeveston. Take the C635 past the Hastings Caves turn off then follow the C636 gravel road through Lune River to Cockle Creek. The last stages of the road are fairly rough but can be negotiated by 2 wheel drive vehicles.
If driving between dusk and dawn, please be aware that you are sharing the road with wildlife.
Flights to Melaleuca
In the far southwest, Melaleuca is accessible only by light plane, or boat. The airstrip is close to walkers huts, and is the usual starting point for walkers on the South Coast Track. Two companies operate flights to Melaleuca:
Tasair (see www.tasair.com.au)
Par Avion (see www.paravion.com.au)
Public transport and tours
Visitors wishing to use public transport or tours to access the park should visit our web page on Access to Tasmania's National Parks, Reserves and Walking Tracks.