From Hobart: Gordon Dam and Lake Pedder Wilderness Day Tour

From Hobart: Gordon Dam and Lake Pedder Wilderness Day Tour

If you’re after a full day of discovering some of Tasmania’s most impressive natural sights, this tour from Hobart offers a solid blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and local storytelling. For $172 per person, you’ll spend about 9.5 hours exploring Gordon Dam, Lake Pedder, and the wilds of Southwest National Park with a knowledgeable guide.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to walk across Australia’s highest arch dam, a feat not many can claim. Second, you’ll get an up-close view of Lake Pedder’s striking colors and intriguing history—a lake famous for its glistening white sands and vivid hues.

A minor consideration is that the tour is quite packed, with a lot packed into a single day, meaning you’ll want to bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a busy schedule. Suited for those who love nature, geology, wild landscapes, and enjoy knowledgeable guides sharing local insights, this trip appeals most to travelers eager for an authentic outdoor experience with a touch of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Impressive sights: Walk across the 140m high Gordon Dam and enjoy sweeping views from Nob Hill.
• Natural beauty: Lake Pedder’s vibrant colors and pristine wilderness make for unforgettable scenery.
• Expert guides: David’s storytelling about geology, botany, and history adds depth to the experience.
• Active exploration: Bushwalks, dam walks, and lake shore strolls keep you engaged.
• Convenient logistics: Pick-up at Hobart, stop in historic New Norfolk, and return all in one well-organized day.
• Limited group size: Small groups (max 10) ensure personal attention and flexibility.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour is designed to take you deep into Tasmania’s Southwest wilderness, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases some of the most untouched natural environments in Australia. Starting at 8 am from the Tasmania Travel and Information Centre in Hobart, we’re greeted by a small, friendly group and a knowledgeable guide who makes the long day both informative and enjoyable.

First Stops: The Scenic Drive and Historic New Norfolk

The journey begins with panoramic views of the Derwent Estuary, Hobart’s northern suburbs, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great way to get a feel for the landscape before heading inland through farmlands and eucalyptus forests. We love how David, our guide, shares stories and facts about the land’s history and geology, making the drive itself part of the adventure.

In New Norfolk, we pause to pick up lunch and hot drinks at a local bakery—fuel for the rest of the day—and soak in the small-town charm. It’s a nice touch to start with local food, giving us a taste of the region’s hospitality.

Into the Wilderness: Creepy Crawly Walk and Temperate Rainforest

Next, we head into the woods for a walk called the Creepy Crawly Walk. Here, we’re taken through a temperate rainforest, a lush environment full of towering trees, moss-covered logs, and an abundance of native plants. Our guide’s commentary makes this part especially engaging, pointing out native flora and fauna, and explaining how the rainforest’s ecology works.

The walk involves climbing stairs over logs—an enjoyable challenge that gives a real sense of wilderness exploration. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like David make these walks both accessible and educational.

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Lake Pedder: Nature’s Masterpiece

Arriving at Lake Pedder is like stepping into a postcard. The lake’s white quartzite sands and vibrant colors evoke a painter’s palette—blues, greens, and purples shimmering in the sunlight. We love the opportunity to stroll along the shoreline, sometimes barefoot, feeling the cool sand between our toes.

Here, David’s expertise shines again. He shares his university-level knowledge of botany, geology, lakes, and rivers, enriching the experience. We learn about how Lake Pedder formed, its ongoing ecological story, and how it’s been a symbol of both natural beauty and environmental debates in Tasmania.

The Teds Beach area is perfect for relaxing, soaking in the scenery, and sharing a picnic or buying some local snacks. Many travelers mention how the lake’s stunning colors and peaceful atmosphere make it a highlight of the trip.

Lake Pedder Lookout and the Gordon Dam

Next up, the Lake Pedder Lookout offers a breathtaking panoramic view—birds eye and mountain vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s the kind of view that stops you in your tracks and makes all the driving worth it.

Then comes the thrill of walking across the Gordon Dam, Australia’s tallest arch dam at 140 meters high. Standing at the top, looking down into the gorge 35 stories below, is both humbling and exhilarating. Many reviews capture this feeling, with one guest exclaiming, “I believe I can fly,” as they take in the dizzying height.

You get plenty of time here to take photos, marvel at the engineering, or simply soak in the immense scale of this feat. The walk down involves climbing 185 stairs back to the road, which keeps us moving but also provides more opportunities for photos and reflection.

Nob Hill Lookout and Return to Hobart

The final stop is Nob Hill Lookout, which offers an even higher perspective of the dam and the surrounding wilderness. It’s a great spot to absorb the landscape and reflect on the day’s adventures.

By around 5:30 pm, we’re back in Hobart, tired but enriched by a full day of exploration. Many travelers appreciate how well-paced the trip is, given the long hours and multiple stops—scenic views, walking, and learning all packed into one day.

The Value of the Experience

The $172 price tag reflects quite a bit: transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned mini vehicle, a guided tour with a guide who is both personable and knowledgeable, and access to some of Tasmania’s most iconic sights. The fact that it’s a small group (limited to 10 participants) means you get personalized attention and flexibility.

What sets this tour apart is the combination of nature, history, and geology, all delivered by a guide who clearly loves sharing his expertise. You’re not only taking in stunning vistas but also understanding how these landscapes came to be and their significance.

The inclusion of a lake shore walk, dam crossing, and forest walk makes it a well-rounded outdoor experience, especially valuable for travelers wanting more than just a scenic drive. Many reviews mention how David’s storytelling added depth, making the day both fun and educational.

A slight drawback for some might be the long day, especially if you’re not used to extensive walking or sitting in a vehicle. Also, it doesn’t include lunch or drinks, so bringing some snacks or purchasing at the stop in New Norfolk is recommended.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone eager to see Tasmania’s wild landscapes up close, appreciate geology and ecology, and enjoy stories about the land from a passionate guide, this trip is a fantastic choice. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and stairs, and those who want to see iconic sights that are difficult to access on your own in just one day.

Travelers with an interest in environmental stories, engineering feats, and pristine wilderness will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s perfect for those looking for a small-group experience that combines education with adventure, all set in a stunning natural backdrop.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned mini vehicle, a guided commentary, and a sound system to hear the guide clearly. Food, drinks, and personal expenses are not included.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour starts at the Tasmania Travel and Information Centre, located on Davey Street in Hobart. You need to meet there at 8 am.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 9.5 hours, including travel time, stops, and walks. It typically departs in the morning and returns around 5:30 pm.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, water, and rain gear are recommended. Sandals or flip-flops are not allowed, and large bags are discouraged.

Are children allowed?
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old, or for those with mobility issues. It involves walking and stairs, so check your comfort level.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
No, because of stairs and walking involved, it’s not designed for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Tasmania’s wilderness and the stories behind its most iconic landmarks. The personalized guidance makes it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a chance to really connect with the landscape, its history, and its ecology.

While it’s a full day and involves quite a bit of walking and driving, those with a love of nature and curiosity about the land will find it time and money well spent. It’s especially advantageous for travelers wanting a guided experience that combines stunning views with insightful commentary, without the crowds and without sacrificing comfort.

If you’re up for a robust outdoor adventure that highlights Tasmania’s wild side, this tour from Hobart is a superb choice. It’s a taste of the rugged beauty that makes this island state so special—an experience you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.

You can check availability for your dates here: