The Western Arthur Range rises in a serrated wall above the buttongrass plains of Southwest National Park. Its traverse is one of Tasmania's hardest multi-day routes, with slow scrambling, cliff exposure, scarce campsites and rapidly changing alpine weather.
Distance understates the difficulty
Parks Tasmania grades the traverse 5 and recommends five to seven days for the 58-kilometre loop. After Lake Oberon the route becomes rougher and more exposed, with pack hauling, steep gullies, unstable boulders and intermittent cairns.
Heavy rain can make creek crossings impassable and flood Junction Creek. Water may be scarce on parts of the ridge in summer. Every party needs strong navigation, remote camping and emergency skills.
Registration and current alerts are mandatory planning inputs
All walkers, including those doing only part of the traverse, must register. Carry the official map, a PLB, storm-worthy shelter and enough food for delays. Fuel-stove rules apply.
Access via Scotts Peak Road can be affected by fire, flood, snow and works. In 2026 the Edgar Dam campground and boat ramp remain closed during works, although access to Scotts Peak continues. Check the live alert again immediately before departure.
Turnaround plans matter
Set weather and time thresholds before climbing Alpha Moraine. Lake Oberon is not a safe objective for a lightly experienced party, and the full traverse beyond it is substantially harder.
Use the Tasmania hiking guide for equipment principles and Federation Peak for the distinct Eastern Arthur Range objective.