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Douglas-Apsley National Park

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Beyond the boardwalks

While most visitors stick to the paved trails that skirt the Apsley River, the park’s interior harbours a network of unmarked tracks criss‑crossing dry sclerophyll forest and heathland. Early‑morning walkers who venture a kilometre off the main path often encounter pockets of ancient paleo‑grassland, where low, silvery shrubs contrast sharply with the towering eucalypts. These quieter corridors are ideal for spotting endemic reptiles such as the Tasmanian grass skink, whose camouflage makes them elusive to casual onlookers. Pack a sturdy pair of boots, a map, and a portable water bottle, as the terrain can become slick after rain and mobile signal fades quickly.

Seasonal shades of colour

The park’s visual palette shifts dramatically through the year. In late spring, flowering heath bursts into pink and mauve, while summer brings a golden hue to the dry ridges as the understory dries out. Autumn, though brief, paints the river banks with burnt‑orange and deep russet tones, offering a softer light that enhances the texture of sandstone outcrops. The cooler months see mist hugging the river gorge, a reminder that the park’s micro‑climates can feel markedly different within a few kilometres. Plan a visit when the weather forecast predicts clear skies and a gentle breeze to fully appreciate these subtle transformations.

A water‑way on a day‑trip

The Apsley River, though modest in size, provides a low‑impact way to explore the park’s heart. Small inflatable kayaks or sturdy canoes can be launched from the designated put‑in near the main carpark, allowing paddlers to glide past granite shelves and riparian birdlife without disturbing the land‑based trails. Early mornings bring the best chance of spotting kingfishers darting over the water’s surface. Remember that fuel‑powered vessels are prohibited, preserving the river’s tranquillity. Pack a dry bag for supplies and a waterproof case for any electronics, as the river’s flow can rise quickly after a night’s rain.

Introduction

National park in Australia Douglas-Apsley National ParkIUCN category II (national park)Douglas-Apsley National Park, April 2017Douglas-Apsley National ParkInteractive map of Douglas-Apsley National ParkLocationTasmaniaNearest cityBichenoCoordinates41°45′30″S 148°11′58″E / 41.75833°S 148.19944°E / -41.75833; 148.19944Area160.8 km2 (62.1 sq mi)Established1989Governing bodyTasmania Parks and Wildlife ServiceWebsiteOfficial website Douglas-Apsley is a national park and a locality on the east coast of Tasmania, Australia, 149 km northeast of Hobart, and a few kilometres north of Bicheno. It is one of Tasmania's newer National Parks, having been declared on 27 December 1989.