Top 10 Scenic Drives in North West Tasmania: Discover Breathtaking Views and Hidden Gems

Nestled between rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and pristine wilderness, North West Tasmania offers some of the most scenic drives in Australia. Whether you're a local exploring your backyard or a traveler seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, these drives showcase the region’s stunning landscapes and charming towns. Let’s dive into the top 10 scenic drives that make North West Tasmania an unforgettable travel destination.

1. The Tarkine Drive

Starting off with a true hidden gem, the Tarkine Drive takes you through ancient rainforests and windswept coastlines. This 60 km journey offers breathtaking views of the Tarkine wilderness, home to some of the world's oldest trees. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Edge of the World lookout, where the Southern Ocean stretches out to the horizon.

2. Cradle Mountain Road

Cradle Mountain is one of Tasmania's most iconic landmarks, and the drive leading up to it is equally awe-inspiring. This route takes you through the heart of the World Heritage-listed wilderness, with towering peaks, serene lakes, and lush forests lining the way. Make sure to stop at Dove Lake for a peaceful walk or photograph Cradle Mountain reflected in its still waters. Wonder through Ronney Creek and say "hi" to the local Wombats. They are adorable and a favourite of mine every time I visit. Drop into Peppers Lodge while you're there for a hearty meal and to warm up by the fire! My Hot Tip: Check out the little walk behind the lodge it's a stunner. 

3. Stanley and The Nut

Take a short but stunning drive to the charming coastal village of Stanley, where you’ll find the famous volcanic formation, The Nut. The winding road to Stanley offers sweeping ocean views, and once you arrive, take the chairlift or hike up The Nut for panoramic views of Bass Strait and the surrounding countryside. The Local Pub is my recommendation for a great lunch, featured on Master Chef you're sure to get a good feed.

4. Leven Canyon Lookout Drive

A lesser-known but equally spectacular drive, the Leven Canyon Lookout Drive takes you through lush farmlands and forests to reach the Leven Canyon. The lookout offers jaw-dropping views over the Leven River, cutting through the steep cliffs below. For the adventurous, a short walk down to the Edge Lookout will reward you with some of the best views in the region.

5. Penguin to Ulverstone Coastal Drive

For those who love coastal drives, the route between Penguin and Ulverstone is what we locals call the Mini Great Ocean Road. This picturesque stretch of road runs parallel to the coastline, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to some of Tasmania's most pristine beaches. Stop in Penguin to explore its quirky, penguin-themed town before continuing along the coast.

6. Arthur River to Marrawah

If you’re seeking a wild, untamed landscape, the Arthur River to Marrawah drive offers just that. You’ll travel along Tasmania’s rugged west coast, where the wild Southern Ocean meets rocky shores. This remote area is perfect for spotting wildlife and soaking in the dramatic coastal scenery. Due to the wild nature of this coastline Marrawah is host to a yearly surf competition the Rip Curl West Coast Classic. So you're sure to be blown away by this region in one way or another! 

7. The Road to Devils Gullet

For those seeking dramatic mountain landscapes, the road to Devils Gullet is a must. This scenic drive takes you deep into the Tasmanian highlands, where the towering cliffs and rugged terrain of the Great Western Tiers dominate the landscape. The road winds through dense forests before opening up to the Devils Gullet lookout, which offers breathtaking panoramic views over the staggering 220 metre drop of Devils Gullet and beyond to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Just a little further up the road and you find Lake Mackenzie, known for being part of an intricate system of hydro electric power stations. 

8. Forth to Wilmot Scenic Drive

One of our favourite and somewhat understated drives is this truly peaceful and rural drive from Forth to Wilmot. This winding road offers expansive views of farmland, forests, and the rugged peaks of Tasmania’s Central Highlands. Along the way, you’ll pass quirky roadside attractions, including the original Coles store in Wilmot. Keep an eye out for quirky letterboxes and if you feel like it detour down to Lake Barrington or loop around to Sheffield for afternoon tea.

9. Devonport to Sheffield via Railton

This scenic drive starts in Devonport, one of the main gateways to Tasmania if arriving by the Spirit of Tasmania, and takes you through the charming town of Sheffield, known for its stunning murals and it's annual Steam Fest. Along the way, you'll pass through Railton, also called the ‘Town of Topiary,’ where you can admire beautifully sculpted hedges that line the streets. Once in Sheffield you can admire its jaw-dropping back drop that is Mt Roland! If you ask me this even tops Cradle Mountain in all it's beauty!

10. Western Explorer Highway

For those with a sense of adventure, the Western Explorer Highway offers a remote and rugged drive through the Tarkine region. Sometimes referred to as The Road to Nowhere this gravel road cuts through untouched wilderness, with dramatic mountain ranges, vast plains, and dense rainforests along the way. Experience the crossing the historic Pieman River by barge. It’s a challenging drive but worth it for the solitude and spectacular scenery.

Why North West Tasmania is a Must-Visit Destination

There are few places you find where the country melts into the coastline but that is exactly what the North West region of Tasmania does. It is a spectacular blend of the two and a true reflection of the wild and untamed nature of Tasmania! 

North West Tasmania offers diverse and breathtaking landscapes that make every road trip an adventure. Whether you're after coastal vistas, ancient rainforests, or mountain scenery, these drives will take you through some of the most beautiful and unspoiled parts of Australia. Add North West Tasmania to your travel itinerary and experience these scenic drives for yourself—you won’t be disappointed!

Explore North West Tasmania and uncover the beauty of its landscapes by hitting the road on one of these incredible scenic drives. You won't be disappointed! 

Need a central place to stay for all these road trip adventures? Check out 41 Found our boutique stay in the heart of the North West Coast. Click here to view 41 Found