Wielangta State Forest
Wielangta Road Forest Drive
Wielangta State Forest is a beautiful and historic working forest and offers amazing views over the coastline and Maria Island.
Interpretation signs help visitors understand not only the history of the area but also how the forests are being managed today, while the reserves provide towering blue gums and pockets of rainforests to delight the senses.
This 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.
Though the Wielangta Road doesn't appear on all maps, it is signposted at both ends.
The Thumbs Lookout and picnic area, located in National Park near Orford at the northern end of the drive, provides spectacular views of the East Coast and Maria Island.
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 Cosast.
A longer walk, departing from the Sandspit picnic area, passes the remnants of Wielangta - a once thriving sawmilling town.
Returning via the Tasman Highway from Orford completes an enjoyable round trip from Sorell.
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.
