Track 12 Sandy Cape Track

A worthwhile and picturesque track for those with a sense of adventure

As one of several challenging tracks that run along Tasmania’s rugged West Coast, the Sandy Cape Track can at times be extremely difficult, but always worthwhile. Like any good boy scout, we recommend you come prepared.

Driving the track

Located within the Arthur-Pieman

Conservation Area, the Sandy Cape Track provides outstanding coastal scenery and beautiful camping spots. As the area is quite remote, it’s recommended you fill up at Corinna, if entering from the south, or Marrawah if entering from the north.

The main campsites are located at Greenes Creek, Pedder River, and Sandy Cape. Camping fees are included in the purchase of a Recreational Drivers Permit for the sea south of Temma and camping is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camping fees apply for sites north of Temma and can be purchased at the Arthur River Parks and Wildlife Service Office Fishing is allowed only where signposted.

From Temma to Greenes Creek, approximately 12km, the track is rated to an easy 4WD track. However, it can become slippery and more difficult after heavy rain with deep-water sections. The later beach section of the drive, from Greenes Creek to Sandy Cape, is rated as Difficult. The track comprises a mix of sandy and rocky

CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW: Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area, surrounded by dense rainforest and named after the wild river that runs from the mountains to the sea, Arthur River is a great base for exploring the takayna / Tarkine wilderness, Tasmania’s largest tract of temperate rainforest (Pic Jess Bonde); The cruise on this North West Tasmania river takes you 14kms along Arthur River, first to the river mouth then upstream past the Arthur and Frankland river junction before continuing on to Warra Landing for lunch; Arthur River Cruises is an unforgettable wilderness experience (Pics Tourism Australia).

Sandy Cape Track details

Grade: D

Time: 2-3 hours

Distance: 26.5km

Best Time of Year: Any Permits and Fees: Arthur-Pieman

Recreational Drivers Pass

Contact Details: Arthur River Field Centre, 1490 Arthur River Rd, Arthur River TAS 7330. Ph 03 6457 1225 or visit parks.tas.gov.au/explore-ourparks/arthur-pieman-conservation-area

Highlights: Aboriginal sites, coastal views, Bartel’s monument

Getting There: The Sandy Cape Track is accessed by first following the C214 (Rebecca Rd) west from Kanunnah Bridge or south from Arthur River. Head south at the intersection of Temma Rd near Couta Rocks and follow the road until it intersects with the Sandy Cape Track. Fuel is available at Zeehan or Smithton.

Facilities

Camping available

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Balfour Track Warning

Balfour Track Warning

Numerous deep water hazards, snorkle/winch/recovery gear essential, multiple buddy vehicles required. Majority of track can be submerged in wet season. Attempt only in dry season.

Ar thur Pieman Conservation Area permit required for access.

Numerous deep water hazards, snorkle/winch/recovery gear essential, multiple buddy vehicles required. Majority of track can be submerged in wet season. Attempt only in dry season. Ar thur Pieman Conservation Area permit required for access.

Balfour Track Warning

Ar thur-Pieman Conservation Area

Contact Ar thur River Parks and Wildlife Service on (03) 6457 1225 regarding permits and 4WDing in the conservation area.

Access to Sandy Cape should be done in convoy of at least 2 vehicles, at low tide, low tyre pressures and heeding to local Ar thur River ranger beach conditions warnings

Sandy Cape Beach Warning

This par t of the Sandy Cape Track can be treacherous during par ts of the year

This par t of the Sandy Cape Track can be treacherous during par ts of the year

This beach traverse contains four major ford crossings which should only be attempted at low tide and with snorkle/winch/recovery gear and multiple buddy vehicles present. Obtain the latest Ar thur River Ranger warnings for the beach and ford crossings before proceeding.

This beach traverse contains four major ford crossings which should only be attempted at low tide and with snorkle/winch/recovery gear and multiple buddy vehicles present. Obtain the latest Ar thur River Ranger warnings for the beach and ford crossings before proceeding.