

Lake Pedder & Scotts Peak. Credit Tourism Tasmania & Alan Long
EXPLORE BEYOND. EMBRACE ADVENTURE.
Maydena is the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area, with easy access to both Mount Field and Southwest National Parks. Surrounded by lush forests, mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, and cascading waterfalls, the area offers endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing yourself in ancient landscapes. From the famous tall trees and alpine vistas to thrilling adventure sports like mountain biking and kayaking, Maydena puts you at the doorstep of some of Tasmania’s most breathtaking and untouched wilderness.

Russell Falls. Credit Jason Charles Hill
The lower section of Mount Field National Park showcases lush rainforest, towering trees, and stunning waterfalls, best explored on the Three Falls Circuit—one of Tasmania’s great short walks. Most begin with the easy, accessible stroll to Russell Falls, followed by a gentle climb to Horseshoe Falls, then continue through the Tall Trees Walk, home to the world’s tallest flowering plants, before reaching the third waterfall, Lady Barron Falls. The full 2 to 2.5-hour loop offers a rewarding experience, though shorter sections can be enjoyed at a more relaxed pace.

Styx River Credit Joanne Morin
This short, easy trail begins next to the Tall Trees Reserve boardwalk and winds through lush, moss-draped forest before tracing the tranquil, tannin-stained waters of the Styx River. Along the way, walkers are immersed in a serene landscape of ancient trees, vibrant ferns, fungi, and diverse birdlife. It's a peaceful and magical experience that captures the beauty and stillness of Tasmania’s iconic old-growth forests.

Gordon Dam. Credit Stu Gibson
Just 10 minutes past Strathgordon, the awe-inspiring Gordon Dam rises 140 metres above the Gordon River, making it the tallest dam in Tasmania and one of the highest in Australia. At full capacity, it creates Lake Gordon—the largest lake in Australia—holding more water than the entire Sydney Harbour. Visitors can walk across the dramatic curved wall for breathtaking views into the gorge below and over the vast expanse of Lake Gordon. Surrounded by rugged peaks and dense forest, the dam is a striking contrast between human engineering and wild southwest Tasmania—a must-see for its scale, scenery, and solitude. Learn more >

Marriott Falls. Credit JJ Harrison
Marriott Falls is a stunning natural waterfall located near Maydena, reached via a moderately challenging 4.6–5 km return walk taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. The trail winds through riverside forest, open plains, and lush rainforest, with some muddy, uneven sections. The walk ends at a beautiful segmented cascade set against mossy rock walls and dense ferns—an ideal reward for those with a moderate level of bushwalking experience. Learn More >

Rail Rack Riders. Credit railtrackriders.com.au
A unique and fun outdoor experience where visitors pedal rail bikes along disused railway tracks through beautiful forest and farmland scenery. Perfect for casual adventurers, the rides are easy and leisurely, allowing riders to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, spot wildlife, and appreciate Tasmania’s rich rail history. railtrackriders.com.au

Pademelons. Credit Tourism Tasmania & Masaaki Aihara
Wildlife
The forests, rivers, and roadsides around Maydena are rich with wildlife, including wallabies, pademelons, wombats, echidnas, possums, and many bird species. Dawn and dusk are especially active times, so please slow down and drive carefully, particularly at night when animals wander on the road. Respecting their space protects these unique creatures and their habitat. Pademelons graze around the retreat cabin at night - a lovely sight! Please take care when walking on the paths or lawn, as you might step in their droppings, and leave your shoes at the door to help keep the cabin clean. Gorgeous alpacas live on the neighbouring property. They’re beautiful to watch, but please do not enter their private property and do not feed them due to their special diet.

Lake Dobson. Credit Joanne Morin
The upper alpine area of Mount Field, centred around Lake Dobson, offers a dramatic contrast to the rainforest below. A 30-minute drive climbs through tall eucalypts into a high-altitude landscape of snow gums, alpine moorlands, and glacial lakes. In winter, snow can blanket the area so check road and weather conditions beforehand. Year-round, scenic walks include the easy Lake Dobson circuit, the Pandani Grove Walk, and the short but steep climb to Seagers Lookout. Experienced hikers can explore the stunning Tarn Shelf, with its glacial tarns and ridgelines. Summer brings colourful wildflowers, while autumn showcases the golden leaves of the deciduous fagus.

Lake Pedder & Scotts Peak. Credit Tourism Tasmania & Alan Long
The drive from Maydena to Lake Pedder and Strathgordon is a spectacular journey into Tasmania’s remote southwest, offering a glimpse of one of Australia's last true wilderness frontiers. The Gordon River Road winds for 80 km through rainforest, towering eucalypts, buttongrass plains, and dramatic mountain scenery. Passing through the rugged Sentinel Range, the road reveals ever-changing views before opening to the vast Lake Pedder- Australia's largest freshwater lake with over 240 square kilometres of water framed by quartzite beaches and wild peaks. Just before the towering Gordon Dam lies Strathgordon, set on Lake Pedder, a tiny outpost built to house hydro dam workers. Stop by the Pedder Wilderness Lodge for a café break and see the ancient Huon Pine log near the entrance, its rings traced back over 2,000 years. This unforgettable drive blends history, raw beauty, and deep remoteness—perfect for those seeking the wild heart of Tasmania.

Maydena Bike Park. Credit Kane Naaraat and Pinkbike.com
Maydena Bike Park is Australia’s premier gravity-focused mountain bike park, located in the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness at Maydena. With over 70 trails ranging from beginner to expert, the park offers an incredible variety of terrain, including flowy descents, technical challenges, and scenic alpine routes. Riders access the trails via a dedicated uplift service, making it a top destination for downhill and enduro enthusiasts. Set against a backdrop of lush forest and mountain views, Maydena Bike Park delivers world-class riding in a truly wild setting.

Twisted Sister. Credit bigtreestate.com.au
A short, easy loop trail through dense rainforest and wetland in the Florentine Valley, 25 mins drive from Maydena. Along the 1.4 km (≈20‑minute return) walk, you’ll reach the base of the majestic “Twisted Sister,” a giant ash tree twisting from root to canopy, surrounded by vivid mosses, lichens, and fungi. The trail is generally well-maintained, though can be muddy in wetter months, and is perfect for a peaceful nature stop-off. Learn more >

Westerway Raspberry Farm. Credit Pete Harmsen
A popular berry farm located 20 minutes before Maydena, offering pick-your-own and farm-gate sales of a wide variety of berries, including raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, red currants, silvanberries, golden raspberries, and josterberries. Open daily from December to May, with offerings changing weekly by season. The farm shop also features delicious ice creams, berry jams, sauces, juices, and other locally made treats—a perfect seasonal stop for fresh produce and handmade goodies. Westerway Raspberry Farm Shop

Eucalyptus Regnan. Credit Tourism Tasmania & Kathryn Leahy
The Styx Tall Trees Conservation Area is a prime destination to witness some of the world’s most magnificent Eucalyptus regnans, many soaring over 90 metres and centuries old. Their immense height and girth place them among the largest flowering plants on Earth. Officially protected in 2013 after years of environmental campaigning, the reserve now safeguards these forest giants along with cool temperate rainforest, lush understorey ferns, and wild, tannin-stained rivers. Visitors can explore easy, signposted walks like the Big Tree boardwalk for an unforgettable encounter with Tasmania’s ancient forests. Note: The unsealed road may have sections with potholes, corrugations, or slippery patches—especially after prolonged rain—so drive with care. Other nearby sites, including the Tyenna Big Tree Reserve near Maydena, can be found at bigtreestate.com.

Red Knoll Lookout. Credit Jason Charles Hill
The scenic Scotts Peak Dam Road offers a breathtaking journey deep into Tasmania’s remote Southwest National Park, showcasing dramatic views of rugged mountain ranges, button grass plains, and untouched wilderness. The drive culminates at Red Knoll Lookout, a stunning vantage point overlooking Lake Pedder and the distant peaks of the Western Arthur Range. This quiet, awe-inspiring spot is perfect for soaking in the vastness of the Tasmanian wilderness and experiencing the raw beauty of the World Heritage-listed landscape.

Lake Pedder. Credit tassiebound.com.au
An award-winning kayaking company, founded in 2011 by Fiona and Liam Weaver offering immersive guided experiences exploring stunning waterways, rich wildlife , and the natural beauty of the region. Their small-group tours, such as “Paddle with the Platypus” and adventures on Lake Pedder and the River Derwent, provide a unique and personal way to experience Tasmania’s wild landscapes from the water.

Junee Caves. Credit Tourism Australia & Graham Freeman
The Junee Caves Walk is a short 1 km return rainforest trail near Maydena, taking around 30 minutes. Follow Junee Road to the signed car park, then stroll through lush forest beside the crystal-clear Junee River — filtered by Australia’s deepest cave system. The trail ends at a viewing platform overlooking the cave entrance, surrounded by ferns, rapids, and the soothing sounds of flowing water. While cave entry is restricted, this easy Grade 2 walk is a serene and rewarding nature experience for all ages.

Salmon Ponds. Credit Tourism Tasmania & Rob Burnett
Salmon Ponds, located 35 mins from Maydena, near New Norfolk, is the historic site of Australia’s first commercial trout hatchery, set within beautifully landscaped gardens alongside the tranquil Plenty River. Explore informative displays about trout breeding, enjoy the peaceful picnic areas, feed the fish, and stroll through scenic walking trails surrounded by native flora. Salmon Ponds combines rich history, family-friendly activities, and natural beauty.