DERWENT BRIDGE, TASMANIA

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Though it is a very small dot on the map, and a tiny community in Tasmania's Central Highlands where Lyell Highway crosses the River Derwent, Derwent Bridge is the gateway both to Wild Rivers National Park and Lake St Clair (5 km). There are several short walking trails that can be taken at the southern end of Lake St Clair, ranging from 30-40 minutes lakeside to a 7 hour round trip to Mt. Rufus. After Derwent Bridge, Lyell Highway winds for 56 kilometres through the heart of the Wild Rivers National Park, which lies in the heart of the Franklin - Gordon Rivers Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It is a region of dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful rainforest, deep river valleys and spectacular gorges. There are several short walks and picnic stops along the way that will allow you to discover the grandeur and beauty of the Wild Rivers region. One of these is a short walk to Nelson Falls provides a welcome break from what can be a tedious drive through the mountains, depending on the weather conditions and traffic.