Tasmania · Attraction
Douglas-Apsley National Park
Gorges, waterholes and wild forest
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Douglas-Apsley National Park stretches across 16,000 hectares of dry eucalypt forest and dramatic river gorges just north of Bicheno, protecting one of Tasmania's most ecologically significant dry sclerophyll landscapes. The centrepiece is the Apsley Waterhole, a crystal-clear swimming hole at the base of a sandstone gorge that is one of the state's 60 Great Short Walks. A valid Tasmanian national parks pass is required for entry.
The southern entrance off Rosedale Road leads to a car park with toilets and a signed trailhead just seven kilometres from the Tasman Highway. From there a Grade 2-3 return walk of approximately 5.6 kilometres takes visitors through river flats, past ancient platypus habitat, and down into the gorge to the waterhole, a perfect swimming spot in summer. The more ambitious Leeaberra Track extends 28 kilometres one-way through the park's remote interior and is graded 4, requiring two to three days of self-sufficient bushwalking.
Birdlife is exceptional throughout, with the park sheltering wedge-tailed eagles, swift parrots, and strong populations of quoll. Free bush camping is available for those wanting to extend their visit. The park has no visitor centre on-site, so purchase your parks pass before arriving, options include a day vehicle pass or an eight-week holiday pass that covers all Tasmanian national parks.
Scenic views
