TRAIL OF THE TIN DRAGON

Visit the scene of Tassie’s storied tin mining history. Pic: ourtasmania.com.au

Sounds like a chapter from an unpublished Tolkien novel, eh? Looks just like it too. It doesn’t take all that much of a stretch of the imagination to start seeing little round doors appear, or glimpses of scurrying hobbits in these lush green hills.

The 80km track is in Tassie’s northeast. It wends and wanes through the colour saturated countryside and high country rainforest between St Helens and Launceston.

The track doesn’t involve any particularly difficult 4WDing, but whether you’re a Tassie local or visiting from interstate, it’s well worth a visit just to gawk at the gorgeous landscape and learn a little about the region’s past.

The trail traverses the hilly territory mined for tin by groups of Chinese and European immigrants through the late 19th century. Just three hours out of Hobart, it’s almost close enough for a daytrip, but do yourself a solid and plan to pitch camp for a night at Derby Park or visit the Pub in the Paddock.

STUFF TO DO

4WDING: The terrain is gentle and suitable for all 4WD vehicles. The region is prone to quite a lot of rainfall, so check the forecast and plan ahead for muddy conditions.

RALPH FALLS is one of the highest waterfalls in Australia and is definitely worth a visit. St Columbia Falls offers another great opportunity to snap some holiday photos, and both are pleasant spots to stop for lunch and to take in the scenery.

IMPORTANT INFO

LOCATION: Between St Helens and Launceston. The route is 280km out of Hobart and is accessed via the Midland Highway.

CAMPING is available at Derby Park, the Weldborough Hotel and the Pub in the Paddock.

FUEL is available at Launceston, St Helens and Scottsdale.

MORE INFO is available at www.bodc.tas.gov.au

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