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Western Arthurs Walking - Southwest Traverse, Australia
Western Arthurs Walking  | Shelby Pinkerton
Trekking in the Western Arthurs - Southwest Traverse, Australia
Trekking in the Western Arthurs  | Tourism Tasmania & Dave Cauldwell
Western Arthurs Sunshine - Southwest Traverse, Australia
Western Arthurs Sunshine  | Shelby Pinkerton
The wild and challenging Western Arthurs - Southwest Traverse, Australia
The wild and challenging Western Arthurs  | Tourism Tasmania & Geoff Murray
Group shot and beautiful scenery around the Western Arthurs, Tasmania - Southwest Traverse, Australia
Group shot and beautiful scenery around the Western Arthurs, Tasmania  | Aran Price
Western Arthurs View - Southwest Traverse, Australia
Western Arthurs View  | Shelby Pinkerton
The wild and challenging Western Arthurs - Southwest Traverse, Australia
The wild and challenging Western Arthurs  | Tourism Tasmania & Dave Cauldwell
Scenery around the Western Arthurs, Tasmania - Southwest Traverse, Australia
Scenery around the Western Arthurs, Tasmania  | Aran Price

Southwest Traverse

Australia
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 3 reviews

9 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: WAG
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 9 Days
Activities
  • 8 days trekking with a full pack, 1 rest/contingency day
Accommodation
  • 8 nights camping
Meals
  • 8 Dinners
  • 8 Lunches
  • 9 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
8 / 10

Entry level Mountaineering or Exploratory Treks

Carbon Footprint  

25kg of CO2-e PP per day

(222kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Spectacular and challenging ridge walking
  • Tasmania's most glaciated mountain landscape
  • High altitude glacial lakes
  • Endemic alpine flora
  • Extraordinary side trips to high peaks

Overview

Located within the remote Southwest National Park of Tasmania, the Southwest Traverse is one of Australia’s most iconic and challenging bushwalking journeys. Our nine-day itinerary allows enough time - weather permitting - to complete a traverse of Moraine A–K from from Scotts Peak Dam with a contingency day built in to account for the region’s highly variable conditions.

Over eight days on the Track, the route follows a spectacular and exposed line along rugged quartzite ridges, taking in features such as the Beggary Bumps and the Tilted Chasm. This is a demanding, full-pack, bushwalk through a truly wild and committing landscape.

As with all journeys in this environment, conditions play a significant role. Weather, track conditions, and group factors may influence daily progress, and completion of the intended route cannot be guaranteed. A flexible approach and a willingness to adapt are essential to getting the most from this experience.

This trip is designed for experienced bushwalkers with a strong level of fitness and resilience. Participants must be confident carrying a full pack for extended periods and be comfortable with rock scrambling, steep terrain, and sustained exposure to height in alpine environments.

Itinerary

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Get ready for your first breathtaking glimpse of the range! We depart Launceston at 6:00am, journeying through the rolling landscapes toward the serene Scott's Peak Dam. The drive is a scenic 5-6 hours, with restful stops along the charming towns of Campbell Town and New Norfolk. Along the way, morning tea is served, giving you a chance to stretch and soak in the countryside before arriving at the peaceful Scott's Peak dam. After a light, energizing lunch, we set off on our trek to Junction Creek, following a well-trodden track that meanders past sparkling creeks and verdant wilderness. The trail can be delightfully muddy in wetter conditions, adding to the sense of adventure. By late afternoon, around 5pm, we set up camp near Junction Creek, our feet slightly damp but spirits high from the day’s explorations. Walking Distance: 8.8km Walking Time: 3-4 hours, depending on conditions and pace

Meals: B,L,D

The main exertion of the day is the climb of Alpha Moraine, gaining approximately 900m in elevation to reach the northern end of the Western Arthur Range. In sunny weather, the tough climb rewards walkers with spectacular views back towards Lake Pedder and Mt Anne! Once on the range the track undulates past ragged quartz outcrops and alpine moorland before a final steep decline into Lake Cygnus. Walking Distance: 7.3km Walking Time: 5-8hours, depending on conditions and pace

Meals: B,L,D

Today we pass Mt Hayes, continuing along the trail toward Square Lake, where we plan to stop for lunch. The first steep descent along the traverse takes us into the chasm and down to Lake Oberon. This section requires careful rock scrambling, and packs may need to be hauled. It demands focus and teamwork, and conditions can significantly affect the pace. Walking Distance: 4.2km Walking Time: 5-8 hours, depending on conditions and pace

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a contingency/rest day. This day may fall anywhere within the itinerary depending on group and weather conditions.

Meals: B,L,D

After breaking camp, the traverse becomes significantly more physical. Progress beyond Lake Oberon will be carefully assessed based on weather and the group’s preparedness; if conditions or ability are not sound, objectives may be adjusted to ensure safety. The route passes through numerous gullies and climbing sections where pack hauling and teamwork are essential. Mt Pegasus and Mt Capricorn are highlights along the way, with opportunities to pause for rest as conditions allow. The day is rewarded with expansive views of the Southwest and striking evidence of the region’s past glacial activity. Tonight's camp at High Moor will feel very exposed in windy conditions. Walking Distance: 4.2km Walking Time: 8-12hours, depending on conditions and pace

Meals: B,L,D

Today takes us through the jagged peaks of the Beggary Bumps. After leaving camp we encounter the steep and difficult descent into the Tilted Chasm, which can take multiple hours. Negotiating this section of the Western Arthurs is challenging, requiring careful rock scrambling and full concentration, but is rewarded with raw alpine views including Federation Peak and the Eastern Arthurs. Tonight's camp is at the shelter site of Haven Lake. Walking Distance: 3.8km Walking Time: 8-14hours, depending on conditions and pace

Meals: B,L,D

Today marks a major milestone as we begin the descent from the Western Arthurs. The track down Kappa Moraine challenges walkers with steep and rugged terrain, requiring concentration, and offering you a profound sense of accomplishment as the buttongrass plains gradually open out below you. Reaching the McKays Track junction and camp for the night is a significant achievement, reflecting the skill, endurance, and teamwork of the group over the traverse. Walking Distance: 7.7km Walking Time: 4-6hours, depending on conditions and pace

Meals: B,L,D

From our camp, we follow the McKays Track back toward Scott's Peak Dam. This section runs parallel to much of the terrain we’ve traversed over the past six days, offering long stretches of flat trail where your mind can wander and reflect on the journey so far. About halfway along, we pass Junction Creek, where the adventure began, a quiet reminder of how far we’ve come. At the end of the trail, we are met by our driver and spend the evening at Scott's Peak Dam with a bush BBQ, celebrating the completion of the traverse. Walking Distance: 20km Walking Time: 7-9 hours, depending on conditions and pace

Meals: B,L,D

We wake this morning and from around 9am transfer to Hobart where the trip concludes. It is an approximately 3.5 hour drive, with a stop along the way. We will drop you off the Hobart Grand Chancellor, around lunchtime. Times are an estimate only and subject to any delays. For guests who would prefer to travel back to Launceston you are invited to stay on board and join us for the 3hr journey back to the North of the island.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

2 scheduled departures between 2 Feb 2027 and 22 Feb 2027.

  • Departs 2 Feb 2027 – ends 10 Feb 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 22 Feb 2027 – ends 2 Mar 2027 (9 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 2 professional wilderness guides
  • 8 nights camping
  • 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 8 dinners
  • Food drop provisions and ground support
  • Transport by private minibus
  • National park fees
  • Tent & inflatable sleeping mat
  • Group camping equipment including all cooking and eating equipment
  • Emergency communications and group first aid kit

Not included

  • Travel to and from Launceston
  • Accommodation before and after the trip
  • Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic beverages, car parking in Launceston etc
  • Travel insurance

Reviews (3)

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The Tasmanian Expeditions Team did a fantastic job or organizing and executing the Western Arthurs Traverse event. The guides were very professional and experienced and provided incredible support throughout the trek. It's an amazing adventure traversing the Western Arthurs ridgeline and it's also a lot more challenging than most people would realize. The terrain and weather conditions are tough and I'm very glad to have completed this traverse with a great group of people and the support of the Tasmanian Expeditions Team. Our guides, Ed and Andy, provided a wealth of information about the region and about multi-day hiking best practice in tough conditions. They were very focused on the safety of the group, made excellent decisions along the way and did all they could to ensure we did not come to any harm. The catering was very good for the environment we were in and the equipment provided was suitable for the conditions. We were blessed with some clear weather at opportune times and I was able to collect some amazing photos of the Western Arthurs that I will always value. This was my second trek with Tasmanian Expeditions with the first one being Walls of Jerusalem. Both were excellent and I highly recommend their services, the value for money is excellent in my opinion.

Dennis Horton|Croydon, VIC
26 Jul 2024
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Fantastic, challenging walk

Guides (Ed & Andy) were outstanding

Thankyou

Dave Harmer|Keiraville, NSW
20 Feb 2024
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The trip was superb - out of this world!!

Jane Nikles|Upper Brookfield, QLD
20 Feb 2024

Extra trip info

Trail surfacesWill My Trip Run?FAQsWhy Book With Us
Southwest Traverse | Morgan Stewart

Rugged Terrain

The Southwest Traverse involves extremely rugged terrain, with long days over jagged quartzite ridgelines. Expect steep ascents and descents of up to 900m, along with frequent rock scrambling and occasional pack hauling. Progress is slow and physically demanding.

Southwest Traverse | Morgan Stewart

Exposure & Technical Sections

Much of the route follows narrow, exposed ridgelines requiring a good head for heights. Steep, technical sections involve scrambling and careful movement, with weather significantly increasing the challenge or making the route impassable.

Southwest Traverse | Morgan Stewart

Muddy Conditions

Mud is a feature in lower sections of the trail and buttongrass plains. Expect deep, wet, and often unavoidable muddy stretches without boardwalks, meaning wet feet and slower travel are likely.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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The Southwest Traverse is our most challenging trip so you will need to have an excellent level of fitness. Previous hard, multi-day bushwalking experience is ESSENTIAL. Basic rock-climbing skills are desirable and it is recommended that these are refreshed prior to joining this expedition. You will need to be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions and remote locations where evacuation may be very difficult. If you have any questions about your suitability please give us a call and speak with one of our staff members. We are more than happy to discuss additional information about what you can expect. Your participation is up to the full discretion of the Tasmanian Expeditions Operations Manager in consultation with senior expedition leaders, who will need to discuss your suitability for this experience.

It is a condition of booking a tour with us, and your responsibility to ensure that you are adequately insured for the full duration of the tour in respect of illness, injury, pre-existing medical conditions, death, loss of baggage and personal items and cancellation and curtailment. You must provide evidence to TEX that you have obtained personal travel insurance. You must ensure that your personal travel insurance covers all of the activities you expect to participate in.

For your expedition you will need to carry all equipment in a full trekking backpack that is 70-90 litres in capacity. Depending on the quantity of personal gear and toiletries the average pack weight will be between 20-25kg.

This walking adventure involves trekking in remote areas for up to 12 hours a day, possibly more, over rugged and varied terrain. The tracks may be long, rough and very steep. There will be creek and river crossings, walking on sand and through mud. There is a high degree of height exposure on certain sections on the the trek. With remoteness comes potential to encounter variable weather conditions.

No. Previous multi-day bushwalking experience is essential, as is previous experience on a full pack trek.

No. We will not have access to power along the track. We suggest you bring the required number of portable chargers and cables you require for your devices.

  • Maximum 4 trekkers only, supported by 2 experienced guides
  • Most experienced operator in the remote Western Arthur wilderness

Responsible Travel

Reconciliation Action Plan
The cultural conversation at Standley Chasm will teach you more about Arrente country | Luke Tscharke
Our Reconciliation Action Plan
 
As an Australian-owned and operated organisation, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing custodianship of the land, waters and culture for over 60,000 years.
 
In April 2024, we launched our inaugural Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), formally endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. Our vision is to create cultural safety within the community, our organisation, and on all the lands we are privileged to share, through collaboration, meaningful engagement, and continuous learning while respecting the wisdom of Traditional Custodians.
 
For nearly four decades, we have worked with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to curate immersive adventure experiences across Australia. Every journey begins with a meaningful Acknowledgement of Country, and most of our Australian multi-day itineraries include cultural engagement with local Traditional Custodians.
 
Our Australian Walking Holidays, Tasmanian Expeditions, and Blue Mountain Adventure Company divisions hold Triple Certification from Ecotourism Australia, including the Respecting our Culture Certification, underscoring our dedication to cultural authenticity, responsible business practices, and acknowledging the profound spiritual connections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the land and water.
 
Read our RAP

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