Douglas-Apsley National Park protects a large tract of dry eucalypt forest, river gorge and marsh country a short road journey inland from Bicheno. Its southern entrance offers an approachable waterhole walk, while the park’s interior demands much stronger preparation.
Start with Apsley Waterhole
The signed track from the southern car park reaches Apsley Waterhole through open woodland. Parks Tasmania classifies the longer return walk to the gorge as Grade 2 when walkers return by track. The river-bed circuit is Grade 3 and is suitable only when water is low and no rain is expected.
The Apsley and Douglas rivers rise quickly after rain. There are no bridges on the longer routes. Never enter or cross floodwater, and turn back if a crossing is unsafe.
Treat the Leeaberra Track as a remote walk
The 28-kilometre Leeaberra Track takes about two-and-a-half to three days one way and is graded 4. Parks Tasmania warns of loose rock, overgrown or scrubby sections, difficult navigation and slippery ground. Walkers need a current map, compass, suitable shelter, extra food and an emergency communication plan.
Access to Thompsons Marshes at the northern end is itself difficult. The official advice specifies walking access or a high-clearance four-wheel-drive route. Do not assume a standard hire car can reach that trailhead.
Check access and fire information on the day
Rosedale Road leaves the Tasman Highway north of Bicheno and its final section is unsealed. Flooding, bridge restrictions and fire closures can change access quickly. Read the current park alerts before departure and carry offline directions because reception is limited.
A valid parks pass is required. Camping is restricted to approved sites, drinking water is not supplied and river water must be treated. Seasonal fuel-stove rules apply, so check the current fire requirements rather than relying on older trip notes.
Use Bicheno as the practical service base, and compare this inland park with the very different coast and granite country of the Freycinet Peninsula.