The South Coast Track is one of Tasmania's most challenging multi-day walks. Walkers should be experienced and well-prepared. Take the time to go over our walk notes to ensure you are ready for all that the South Coast Track has to offer. Walk can be undertaken in either direction, however, walk notes are described commencing at Melaleuca.
Under-equipped and inexperienced walkers have died in remote areas of Tasmania. See the Safety in parks page to ensure you are well prepared for remote conditions.
All walkers are expected to know and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
Be aware that wildlife can damage tents if your food is not stowed well. Do not feed wildlife.
Melaleuca to Cox Bight/Point Eric
- Distance: 13.4km of easy and medium walking conditions
- Time: 3.5-4.5 hours
You will probably be feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness as you finally set off after all the planning and preparation. Keep an eye out for ground parrots in the buttongrass plains before being greeted by the wide arc of Cox Bight. On warmer days, enjoy a refreshing swim in Freney Lagoon.
Cox Bight/Point Eric to Louisa River
- Distance: 17km of medium walking conditions
- Time: 6-8 hours
Your first full day on the track starts with a beach walk before turning inland to buttongrass plains and forested hills. There are many creek crossings today, take care especially after heavy rains. You may opt for a side trip Louisa Bay, which will required extra time (6.6km, 2-2.5 hours)
Louisa River to Little Deadmans Bay
- Distance: 13 km of hard walking and mountain ascent
- Time: 7-10 hours
A very challenging day sees you ascend 900 metres onto the Ironbound Range. After traversing the exposed top - where there are good views in fine weather but rain, wind and snow at other times - there is a long descent though rainforest to the campsite.
Little Deadmans Bay to New River Lagoon
- Distance: 9 km of medium walking conditions
- Time: 3-4 hours; add 1 hour for the boat crossing
Thankfully there are no big climbs today. Instead there is buttongrass, bush and the spectacular stretch of Prion Beach. Finish the day by rowing across New River Lagoon to the campsite, don’t forget to leave one boat on each side for the next walkers.
New River Lagoon to Granite Beach
- Distance: 12 km of medium walking
- Time: 5-6.5 hours
This stretch of the Track brings varied walking conditions, with some clambering and rock hopping. You may choose to do a side trip Osmiridium Beach where it is also possible to camp.
Granite Beach to South Cape Rivulet
- Distance: 9 km of medium to hard walking and long ascents
- Time: 7-10 hours
You will start with a long ascent through forest to cross the South Cape Range. The track is often boggy and there are many tree roots. Descend though wet forest, then over hills to the campsite tucked in at the end of South Cape Bay.
South Cape Rivulet to Cockle Creek
- Distance: 11 km of easy walking
- Time: 3.5-4.5 hours
The last day involves walking along two short beaches before heading inland across a long headland then descending to the western end of the last beach and the spectacular Lion Rock that juts into the sea. The walk then proceeds along the beach, up the next headland and then inland through to Cockle Creek.
NOTE: Please refer to the TASmap publication South Coast Walk Map and Notes for more detailed information. Walk times are calculated for average, experienced walkers and do not allow for lunch stops, long rests or side-trips. Allow extra times for these and always carry extra supplies/food in case of injury or unfavourable weather