New walk plans scaled back after feedback, market research

An update has been provided on the long-awaited ‘Next Iconic Walk’ that is earmarked for the West Coast. The fresh plans have made some changes, including adding a tent camping option.

Artist impressions of aspects of the Next Iconic Walk, a proposed three-day, two-night walk between Lake Plimsoll and Lake Margaret Power Station.

Fresh plans for Tasmania’s $40m “Next Iconic Walk” have removed one of the three proposed hut sites and added tent camping as an option for intrepid participants.

The walk is a proposed three-day, two-night trek between Lake Plimsoll and Lake Margaret Power Station that will showcase the extraordinary environment and rich history of Tasmania’s rugged West Coast between Queenstown and Tullah.

The Tyndall Range walk will boast timber huts and be set against a backdrop of dramatic mountain ridges.

It is intended to build on the success of the Overland and the Three Capes Tracks hut-based walks.

Eight public information sessions on the proposal were held across the state in August and September 2024, attracting more than 200 attendees.

Minister for Parks Nick Duigan said the changes featured a range of improvements.

“The plans for the proposed $40m multi-day bushwalking experience were revised after considering public feedback and information gathered through market research,” Mr Duigan said.

“The overnight accommodation has been consolidated in two nodes – one each at Lake Huntley and Lake Mary, removing a third proposed node at Lake Malcolm.

Artist impressions of aspects of the Next Iconic Walk, a proposed three-day, two-night walk between Lake Plimsoll and Lake Margaret Power Station.

“This will reduce the overall environmental footprint and streamline servicing and maintenance operations.

“All walkers will now undertake the same three-day, two-night walk, but will be able to choose their overnight accommodation experience, with options being private pods, shared bunk rooms and camping on tent platforms.

“They will have access to shared kitchen facilities and amenities, host rangers and interpretation, providing a consistent and equitable experience for all walkers regardless of their accommodation type.”

Mr Duigan said the market research had revealed strong demand for camping in tents across two nights with access to shared facilities in huts rather than in a stand-alone campsite with only one night on track.

The updated designs will be included in the Environmental Impact Statement, which is expected to be released for public consultation mid-2025 as part of the Reserve Activity Assessment process and the Council Development Application process.

If approved, construction is slated to begin in 2025/26, and the walk will open in 2029.

Originally published as New walk plans scaled back after feedback, market research