Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park Tours and Activities

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Explore rugged wilderness in this western Tasmanian region. Its early conservation efforts led to the establishment of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Escape to the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park for a challenging venture into remote wilderness areas or a peaceful walk through scenic landscapes. Aborigines inhabited the area for thousands of years. Today the park provides opportunities for all visitors, from backpacking hikers to travellers in wheelchairs.

When a dam was proposed on the Franklin River in 1982, thousands of people staged a non-violent civil protest in rubber ducky boats, successfully blocking construction of the dam. See this site today with its natural beauty unblemished by development. Kutikina Cave and similar sites show evidence of Aboriginal inhabitation for more than 36,000 years.

Visit several rivers flowing through the region. Reach the Franklin River from the 56-kilometre (35-mile) Lyell Highway, which winds through the centre of the park. Follow the short Franklin River Nature Trail for views of gorges, rainforest and the Surprise River. This interpretive trail is suitable for wheelchair access. Nearby, the Frenchmans Cap Walking Track offers a challenging 4-day return bushwalking adventure. The Donaghys Hill Wilderness Lookout Walk offers an easier, 40-minute return walk with spectacular views.

The Collingwood River offers a starting point for rafting trips continuing down the Franklin. Reserve a spot for this 2-week trip through the wilderness. The Gordon River’s dark waters cut through a dense forest. Make a stop along its banks at Sarah Island, which served as a penal colony for 11 years in the early 1800s. Convicts harvested pine trees and built ships here, making the area Australia’s biggest shipyard for a time.

Purchase a single-day, holiday, annual or 2-year pass to enjoy this and other national parks. Check the Tasmanian National Parks website to learn about special days with free admission. Drive about 2.5 hours west from Hobart to reach Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Alternatively, travel from Strahan on Tasmania’s western coast on a cruise boat along the lower Gordon River.

Plan a trip to see Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Rydges Hobart

Rydges Hobart

3.5 out of 5
North Hobart
per person
13 Sept - 20 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Hobart (HBA)
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews)
The room and hotel were fine. However, we rented a room hoping to have a sort of vintage staying (that is how the room was advertised) to then be sent to a room that was not in the main building itself. Again, the room was ok but it wasn't what we expected. The breakfast could definitely improve. The pastries seemed to be those you buy frozen at the supermarket. No cheese slices, some days ham some days salmon (Hobart, Tasmania, you would expect more). Worst scrambled eggs on the world.

Reviewed on 4 Jul. 2025

Kangaroo Bay Apartments

Kangaroo Bay Apartments

4.5 out of 5
Bellerive
Save 100% on your flight
per person
13 Sept - 20 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Hobart (HBA)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (125 reviews)
It’s very good , the property was close to everything . I like the view of Mount Wellington .

Reviewed on 8 Jul. 2025

Hadley's Orient Hotel

Hadley's Orient Hotel

4.5 out of 5
Hobart Central Business District
per person
13 Sept - 20 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Hobart (HBA)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,004 reviews)
Clean and tidy. Helpful staff.

Reviewed on 15 Jul. 2025

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Top Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Pedder Wilderness Lodge

Pedder Wilderness Lodge

3.5 out of 5
Gordon River Road, Strathgordon, TAS
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Lake St Clair Lodge

Lake St Clair Lodge

4 out of 5
Lake St Clair Road, Derwent Bridge, TAS
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Derwent Bridge Chalets & Studios

Derwent Bridge Chalets & Studios

3.5 out of 5
15478 Lyell Highway, Derwent Bridge, TAS
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Pumphouse Point

Pumphouse Point

3 out of 5
1 Lake St Clair Rd, Lake St. Clair, TAS
Pumphouse Point
Gold Rush Inn

Gold Rush Inn

3 out of 5
65 Batchelor Street, Queenstown, TAS
Gold Rush Inn
Empire Hotel Queenstown

Empire Hotel Queenstown

2.5 out of 5
2 Orr Street, Queenstown, TAS
Empire Hotel Queenstown
Strahan Village

Strahan Village

4 out of 5
The Esplanade, Strahan, TAS
Strahan Village
West Coaster Motel

West Coaster Motel

3.5 out of 5
Batchelor Street, Queenstown, TAS
West Coaster Motel
Queenstown Motor Lodge

Queenstown Motor Lodge

3 out of 5
54-58 Orr Street, Queenstown, TAS
Queenstown Motor Lodge
See all 69 properties in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park offers thrilling activities like rafting, hiking, and wildlife spotting. For camping, explore rugged campsites along the Franklin River, or enjoy the scenic Franklin River Nature Trail. While there are no golf courses directly within the park, the stunning natural beauty and adventure opportunities make it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a true Tasmanian experience.

Shopping

The closest shopping experience is in Queenstown, where you can find local crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the West Coast Wilderness Railway shop, offering unique gifts and memorabilia from your Tasmanian adventure.

Recreation

At St Clair Lagoon Conservation Area, immerse yourself in nature's tranquility, perfect for relaxation and mindfulness. Meanwhile, the Queenstown Golf Club offers an invigorating outdoor experience, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, combining sport and serenity seamlessly.

Adventure

Jacks Track, located 48.3km from Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, offers stunning scenery and an adventurous hiking experience. Overland Track Section 6 Trailhead, 38.6km away, provides breathtaking views and a challenging trek. Pine Valley Track Trailhead, 41.8km from the park, immerses you in nature's beauty.

Nightlife

Enjoy a show at The Paragon Theatre, located 41.8km from Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Experience a blend of entertainment and culture, perfect for family outings or a romantic evening. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere while taking in local performances.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is a haven for adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery with its wild rivers, majestic mountains, and pristine wilderness areas. Explore the breathtaking landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and camping in this remarkable national park. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of the Gordon Wild Rivers area, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those in search of an unforgettable escape.

  • Frenchmans Cap: A stunning mountain adventure awaits at Frenchmans Cap, only 11.3km from Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Experience breathtaking views from the summit and explore diverse landscapes along the well-marked trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
  • Cynthia Bay: Located 32.2km away, Cynthia Bay offers a picturesque lakeside retreat. Enjoy the serene beach, engage in water activities, or simply soak in the stunning surroundings while relishing the fresh air and natural beauty of Tasmania.
  • Clark Dam: Just 29.0km from the park, Clark Dam is a scenic spot ideal for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Marvel at the tranquil waters and surrounding landscapes, perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.

Best time to go to Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

The best time to visit Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry). July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January61.7°F (16.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
February60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly Low
April54.0°F (12.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly Low
June46.6°F (8.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July45.5°F (7.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High
August46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September48.7°F (9.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
November55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

To save on your trip to Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, consider visiting between February to March or May when prices are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, and keep an eye out for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Wednesdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Look for package deals that combine flights and hotels for additional savings. Finally, use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and sort by price to find the best rates, and always check for refundable options for flexibility.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park are February to March and May, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To find the best bargains and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.