The Franklin River in the Tasmanian Wilderness is a captivating destination that offers a unique and pristine experience for nature enthusiasts. From its headwaters in the alpine lakes of the Cheyne Range to its confluence with the Gordon River, the Franklin River winds its way through a wilderness national park, void of any permanent human habitation.
With its temperate rainforest, rock formations, and clean air, this region provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of untouched nature. As part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the Franklin River offers breathtaking landscapes, surging rapids, and encounters with native wildlife.
Whether you’re seeking tranquility or adventure, the Franklin River is waiting to be explored and promises to be a memorable journey.
The Franklin River
The Franklin River is a stunning natural wonder that flows through a wilderness national park. From its headwaters in the alpine lakes of the Cheyne Range to its confluence with the Gordon River, spanning a distance of about 130 km, the Franklin River showcases the beauty of untouched nature.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this river is the absence of any permanent human habitation in its catchment area. As you explore its banks, you will be surrounded by temperate rainforest, awe-inspiring rock formations, and peaceful beaches.
Additionally, the air in the Franklin River region is renowned for its cleanliness, making it one of the purest places in the world to breathe in deeply.
Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWWHA)
The Franklin River is located within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWWHA). This area is famous for its dramatic mountain peaks, enchanting temperate rainforest, and majestic river valleys.
As you navigate the pristine rivers, you will have the opportunity to witness the untouched beauty of this unique wilderness. Thanks to the use of modern inflatable rafts, your travel through this sensitive environment will have minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
The TWWHA is home to a diverse range of wildlife, such as platypus, wallabies, quolls, yellow-tailed black cockatoos, and white-breasted sea eagles. Encounters with these species often occur during your rafting expedition, allowing you to truly connect with nature.
Conservation Battle
The Franklin River has a significant historical background that adds to its allure. Over 30 years ago, during an intense conservation battle, the river was successfully saved from potential flooding.
Its exceptional value and importance were recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). In 1982, the conglomerate of national parks, which includes the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair, Franklin-Lower Gordon Wild Rivers, and Southwest regions, was inscribed on the World Heritage List.
Initially named the Western Tasmanian Wilderness National Parks, it was later renamed the Tasmanian Wilderness in 1989. This designation solidifies the river’s status as a global treasure and ensures its preservation for future generations to enjoy.
Tasmanian Wilderness
The Tasmanian Wilderness is a place that perfectly satisfies the selection criteria for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It stands as one of the last remaining temperate rainforests in the southern hemisphere, covering an expansive area of over 1 million hectares.
This wilderness is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including many that are rare, endangered, or completely endemic to the region. For several species that have gone extinct on the mainland in recent times, the Tasmanian Wilderness offers a last refuge.
Its landforms are not only immensely beautiful but also reveal a rich and complex geology. The wilderness holds immense historical and cultural significance, with evidence of Aboriginal occupation dating back over 36,000 years and a legacy of European settlement that spans nearly two centuries.
Natural and Cultural Features
The Tasmanian Wilderness boasts an extraordinary array of both natural and cultural features, each contributing to its outstanding significance on a global scale. The region is characterized by its diverse range of landforms, rare and endangered species, and captivating beauty.
Steep gorges, extensively glaciated landscapes, and undisturbed habitats provide breathtaking vistas and opportunities for exploration. The Tasmanian Wilderness is a stronghold for temperate rainforest and alpine vegetation, nurturing unique ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth.
Throughout the wilderness, you can discover ancient cave art and other important Aboriginal sites. These elements intertwine, creating a narrative that reflects humanity’s interaction with this extraordinary environment.
Opportunity for Joy and Inspiration
Visiting the Tasmanian Wilderness offers an incredible opportunity to escape from the artificial world and immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature. As you explore the untouched wilderness, you will experience a sense of joy and inspiration that can only be found in such unspoiled surroundings.
The Tasmanian Wilderness provides a refuge for all people, offering a moment of solace and a chance to reconnect with the natural world. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or simply in search of tranquility, the Tasmanian Wilderness will exceed your expectations.
Franklin River Rafting Tours
To fully experience the wonders of the Franklin River, various rafting tours are available. Each tour allows you to choose the duration and section of the river that best suits your preferences. The options include:
- 7 or 8 Day Full River Tour
- 9 or 10 Day Full River Tour
- 6 or 7 Day Upper River Tour
- 5 Day Lower River Tour
Regardless of the tour you choose, you can expect an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking scenery, exhilarating rapids, and encounters with native wildlife.
Trip Information
Before embarking on your rafting adventure, it’s essential to be prepared with the necessary equipment. A concise equipment list will ensure that you have everything you need to make the most of your journey.
Additionally, a trip map will guide you and provide an overview of the route you will take. With these resources, you can approach your rafting expedition with confidence and excitement.
Travel Information
To make your journey as smooth as possible, it’s vital to have access to comprehensive travel information. This information will cover various aspects such as transportation options, accommodation recommendations, and any permits or regulations you need to be aware of.
By having all the necessary travel information at your fingertips, you can focus on embracing this unique adventure without any unnecessary stress.
Gallery and Videos
To truly capture the essence of the Franklin River, a gallery and videos section is available for you to explore. These visual representations will transport you to this magical place and provide a glimpse into the wonders that await you.
From stunning photographs to captivating videos, you can get a taste of the extraordinary experiences that can be had in this pristine wilderness.
In Conclusion
The Franklin River offers a remarkable opportunity to escape the artificial world and discover the true grandeur of nature. With its untouched landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, this region is a refuge for all people.
Whether you choose to embark on a thrilling rafting tour or simply immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings, the Franklin River and the Tasmanian Wilderness will leave you with a lasting sense of joy and inspiration.