Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is a protected area in Tasmania covering the catchments of the Franklin and Gordon rivers and adjoining wilderness tracts. It forms part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and conserves significant temperate rainforest and riverine wilderness.

The park contains long river valleys, steep gorges and rainforest-clad slopes, with the Franklin River notable for white-water sections used by river expeditions and the Gordon River known for its remote estuary and wilderness cruises. The landscape is extensive and largely undeveloped, valued for wilderness experiences and biodiversity.

Popular visitor activities include guided river trips, multi-day rafting and remote bushwalking; much of the park requires planning and often specialist guidance because of limited facilities and rugged terrain. Viewing points along access routes provide panoramas over river valleys and wild landscapes.

The park and its rivers were central to major environmental conservation campaigns in Australia in the late 20th century; those campaigns contributed to its recognition and protection within the World Heritage listing. Management of the area focuses on conservation of riverine and forest ecosystems while enabling controlled visitor access.

The park lies in western Tasmania, inland from the west coast and covering areas within the island’s rugged interior; the nearest service towns for access are on Tasmania’s west and central western roads, with long distances between settlements and park entry points.

• World Heritage status: Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the park protects extensive river corridors and temperate rainforest landscapes that are a focus for wilderness recreation and conservation.
• Recreation and access: Popular activities include multi-day rafting on the Franklin River and long remote bushwalks; much of the park is rugged and access is limited outside formed roads and guided routes.

What to See#

• Franklin River: The Franklin River is a central wild river corridor within the park, noted for fast-flowing sections used by white-water rafters and for its deep gorges and rainforest along the river valley.
• Gordon River: The Gordon River flows through the park toward Tasmania’s west coast and is noted for its tidal estuary, rainforest-lined banks and access to World Heritage wilderness areas.

Nearest paved access points are via the Lyell Highway (A10) from Queenstown to the park’s western approaches; longer river trips are launched from designated take-off points such as the Franklin River catchment. Many visits are organized through wilderness operators in Strahan and Queenstown; independent access often requires 4WD and planning.

• If planning multi-day river travel, book permits and guides through Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service in advance.
• Road access is limited - expect long, gravel approaches; fuel up in Strahan or Queenstown.
• Bring a reliable map and satellite navigation; mobile coverage is patchy to non-existent in many valleys.