The longest continuous trail in Tasmania, this 240km route is the ultimate link-up through the heart of the Southwest National Park, weaving together the Eastern Arthurs, Western Arthurs, Port Davey Track and the South Coast Track.
Covering approximately 240km with 12,000m+/- of elevation gain, the route travels entirely through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, demanding sustained technical movement, remote travel skills and full commitment.
Start: W Picton Road, approximately 7.5km from the Farmhouse Creek (Federation Peak trackhead).
Direct access to the official trackhead is currently not permitted due to a landslide and is unlikely to be restored in the near future. Beginning at W Picton Road avoids the need for a bike approach and keeps the route fully self-powered and accessible.
Route: The route follows established walking tracks through the Eastern Arthurs, including the summit of Federation Peak, one of Australia’s most iconic and committing mountains, often considered the highlight and primary motivation for undertaking the Eastern Arthurs traverse.
From there, the route continues through the Western Arthurs, joins the Port Davey Track, and then follows the full South Coast Track eastward.
The shortcut via Lucifer Ridge is not used, as this section remains closed due to phytophthora management.
Finish: Cockle Creek at the southernmost road access and end of the South Coast Track (standard trailhead sign / car park area).
The route can be completed in either direction.
This route is extremely weather-dependent. The Arthurs contain long exposed alpine ridges with scrambling and steep drop-offs. It should not be attempted in poor weather, high winds, heavy rain or low visibility.
Fresh water is generally reliable and frequent (approximately every 5–20km), including tarns, creeks and streams. Late summer to early autumn generally provides the most stable conditions. Winter adds snow, ice and significantly higher objective risk across the alpine sections.
