From Hobart: Gordon Dam and Lake Pedder Wilderness Day Tour

Southwest Tasmania, Tasmania



Take a one-day tour deep into the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness. Walk across the 140m high Gordon Dam. Encounter Lake Pedder's rich colors and intriguing story. Venture into the temperate rainforest.

Southwest Wilderness Day Tour from Hobart

This full-day (9.5 hours) guided tour explores Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed Southwest wilderness, ideal for nature lovers and walkers.

Highlights

  • Cross the 140m high Gordon Dam, Australia’s tallest arch dam
  • Walk along white quartzite sands and observe the colours of Lake Pedder
  • Explore the wilderness of Southwest National Park
  • Stroll through pristine temperate rainforest on the Creepy Crawly Walk
  • View Lake Pedder and glaciated mountains from Lake Pedder Lookout

Description

The tour begins at 8am with a meet-up at the Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre, 20 Davey Street, Hobart. Enjoy panoramic views of the Derwent Estuary, northern suburbs, and nearby mountains. A stop at Historic New Norfolk allows for picking up lunch and hot drinks from a local bakery.

The journey continues through farmlands and tall eucalyptus forests into the World Heritage wilderness. An easy guided walk at the temperate rainforest, called the Creepy Crawly Walk, features informative insights from your local guide David, a university-trained expert in botany, geology, and local ecosystems.

At Lake Pedder, take a lakeshore walk and relax on white quartzite sands at Teds Beach, with opportunities for a barefoot dip in the lake. Then head to the Lake Pedder Lookout for elevated views over the lake and rugged glaciated mountains.

Cross the Gordon Dam, 140 metres high, with plenty of time for photos and views down the gorge 35 stories below. Learn about the dam and Lake Gordon’s water storage from David’s experience working with Hydro Tasmania. After climbing 185 stairs to the road, visit Nob Hill Lookout for a higher vantage point above the dam and gorge.

The tour returns to Hobart by approximately 5:30pm, concluding at the Tasmanian Travel Information Centre.

Includes

  • Air-conditioned minibus transport
  • University-trained local guide
  • Easy guided nature walks, including Gordon Dam Walk
  • Entry to Southwest National Park and World Heritage Area
  • Access to scenic lookouts suitable for photography
  • Onboard sound system for commentary

Excludes

  • Food and drinks (bring your own or purchase en route)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Important Information

  • Meeting point: 20 Davey Street, Tasmanian Travel Information Centre, Hobart

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and water. The best time to visit is during clear weather for optimal views.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes guided visits to Gordon Dam, Lake Pedder, Southwest National Park, and walks through temperate rainforest and along quartzite sands.
The tour starts with a meet-up at the Tasmanian Travel Centre in Hobart.
The full-day tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours.
Yes, the tour includes crossing the 140-meter-high Gordon Dam.
You will walk along white quartzite sands, on the Creepy Crawly Walk through temperate rainforest, and other wilderness tracks.
Yes, the tour is ideal for nature lovers and walkers interested in Tasmania’s wilderness.
Lake Pedder Lookout provides panoramic views of the lake and glaciated mountains.
The tour generally begins at 8am; check the website for current departure times.
Yes, the tour accommodates both solo travelers and groups.
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the walks in Tasmania's wilderness.

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