What is the Tarkine?

The Tarkine is the largest tract of protected wilderness in “The Edge of the World” region. It is an expansive 447,000 hectare wilderness area of recognised World Heritage significance in Tasmania's North West corner. The Tarkine contains Australia's largest tract of temperate rainforest, and one of the last and most significant in the world. A kaleidoscope of pristine rainforest and eucalypt forest, wild rivers, exposed mountains, magnesite cave systems and extensive coastal heathlands. There are also large sand dune areas extending several kilometres inland, some containing ancient Aboriginal sacred sites. The Tarkine contains extraordinary magnesite karst systems, including unique cave and pinnacle formations. Rocky headlands provide habitat for a rich array of bird and sea-life, whilst the forest is a home for more than 60 species of rare, threatened and endangered species. The Arthur Lineament is a geological feature in the Tarkine and Tasmania's most extensive basalt plateau. The region is also recognised as containing some of the tallest examples of old-growth undisturbed rainforest in Tasmania.

The Tarkine is also steeped in pioneering heritage, renowned for being one of the most isolated and wild regions for early explorers such as Henry Hellyer and Jorgen Jorgenson. Tasmania's pioneering history is also evident in the historical settlements of Temma, Corinna, Balfour, Waratah, Luina and Magnet.

One of the best things about the Tarkine is that it is accessible, yet wild place. Many great opportunities exist to experience the extraordinary natural and cultural values the Tarkine represents. Recreational opportunities in the Tarkine include short and long walking tracks, kayaking, rafting, fishing, photography, camping, self-touring and 4wd-ing, along with wildlife viewing and nature appreciation.

If you are interested in bushwalking - take the short walking track through manferns and rainforest, or the longer walking track through a succession of rainforest and wet eucalypt forest to button grass plains at Milkshake Hills. Experience the mossy myrtle forest of the Tarkine on two easy walks at Julius River - or enjoy a picnic or barbeque. Enjoy views across the Tarkine to Cradle Mountain on a steep and rough walk at Mt Farrell. This walking track is for experienced hikers.

Other walking tracks (short and long) can be found at Philoshper Falls, Dip River, Balfour Track, Hellyer Gorge, Pieman River/Pieman Heads, Whyte River, Savage River, Longback and Mt Donaldson. All walking tracks are well signposted.