Nature
The East Cost of Tasmania covers all aspects of Tasmania's glorious natural heritage. From ancient forests to undoubtedly the world's greatest beach and everything else in between, you are assured of breathtaking views wherever you go.
To view the road as it winds its way along the East Coast checkout the GoogleEarth flythrough here.
In addition to the wonderful National Parks, Tasmania has a range of publicly accessible State Forests.
State Forest: Visitors can be in a State Forest within a half hour drive of every major centre in Tasmania. You are encouraged to explore and enjoy all aspects of Tasmania’s forests - not only the tranquil reserves but the wide range of activities, including spectacular waterfalls, horse-riding, driving, mountain biking and fishing.
On the East Coast the Wielangta Road Forest Drive, a gravel 2WD road, allows visitors to drive through National Park and the Wielangta State Forest from Rheban (Grid Ref 737782) to Kellevie (Grid Ref 672635). The drive provides an alternative route between the Freycinet Coast and Maria Island Region and Tasman Peninsula.
The Robertson Bridge over the Sandspit River has a 2 tonne limit.
The Sandspit Forest Reserve has picnic and toilet facilities, forest interpretation and scenic forest walks.
Located near the Robertson Bridge near the Sandspit Forest Reserve, visitors can enjoy an easy 15 minute loop walk in a patch of relic rainforest, one of only a few found in hidden gullies on the East Coast.
A longer walk, departing from the Sandspit picnic area, passes the remnants of Wielangta, a once thriving sawmilling town.
Off the Lake Leake Main Road an information booth is located at the intersection of the Lake Leake Main Road and 'M' Forest Road, about 3kms east of Kalangadoo. This booth provides details of the nearby forest reserves and their locations.
Safety in State Forests
The vast majority of forest roads are gravel. Vehicles react differently on gravel compared to bitumen. Road conditions change with the weather. Expect to meet other vehicles, including large trucks carrying gravel and other machinery and, of course, log trucks. These vehicles take up more road than the average vehicle, so stay alert. Please drive with care.
It's always advisable to carry a first-aid kit with you, including anti-histamines or other medications for people with allergies or allergic reactions to bites.
Be aware of what is around you. Keep an eye out for snakes in summer. Watch where you are standing or sitting and check for creepy crawly critters every once in a while.
Windy conditions increase the hazard of falling limbs and trees. We recommend that you avoid walking in mature forests on windy days.
Take care not to accidentally start a fire. Be aware of days that are total fire bans and be extra careful with any potential ignition source on those days. If you see a bushfire ring 000 as soon as possible. Quick response fire crews may save lives, property and loss of forest flora and fauna.
Disclaimer:
Visitors to State Forests should be aware that natural hazards occur within Tasmania's forest environments. Forestry Tasmania does not accept liability for any injury or damage resulting from such hazards.
