Tasmania’s Next Iconic Walk: New concept designs of $40m multi-day hiking experience revealed

The Tasmanian public has been offered a glimpse of the state’s ‘Next Iconic Walk’, which could rival the popular Overland and Three Capes tracks. Check out the design >>

Artist’s impression of Lake Mary Hut on the proposed Next Iconic Walk near the Tyndall Range. Picture: Supplied/JAWS Architects

New concept designs of Tasmania’s “Next Iconic Walk” have been revealed, offering the public a glimpse of the $40m multi-day experience planned for the state’s West Coast.

The images of the 28km walk proposed for the Tyndall Range, between Queenstown and Tullah, feature sleek timber huts against a backdrop of dramatic mountain ridges.

The first of a series of public information sessions regarding the project was held at Queenstown on Tuesday, with another hosted at Ulverstone on Wednesday night. Further sessions are planned for Launceston and Hobart next month.

Artist’s impression of Lake Huntley Hut on the proposed Next Iconic Walk near the Tyndall Range. Picture: Supplied/JAWS Architects

Maps and photos have been displayed showing the proposed track route, which will run from Lake Plimsoll in the north to Lake Margaret Power Station in the south.

Parks and Environment Minister Nick Duigan said lookouts and “other key points of interest” had been scouted and identified along the route. He said the three-day, two-night walk would be a “game-changer” for Tasmania, particularly the West Coast.

“We know our multi-day walks are in high demand and the Next Iconic Walk will complement the growing suite of great tourism products and experiences that are already available,” he said.

“This walk will also build on the success of the Overland Track, the Three Capes Track, and enhance our reputation as one of the great walking destinations of the world.”

Minister for Parks Nick Duigan, Sophie Muller, Deputy Secretary Parks and Wildlife Service, West Coast Mayor Shane Pitt and Next Iconic Walk project director Keith Ryan in the Tyndall Range. Picture: Supplied

Environmental groups have criticised the choice of location for the walk, with the Tasmanian National Parks Association saying the climate is “extreme even by West Coast standards” and that development in the area would “drastically impact one of the most outstanding … wild areas in the state”.

The state government hopes planning approvals for the project can be secured from the West Coast Council next year, with construction to begin the year after and the walk slated for opening in 2029.

Mr Duigan said the project would create 139 jobs during construction and an additional 40 in ongoing tourism, hospitality, and transport operations.

The design team charged with delivering the walk plans are continuing to finalise concepts for the proposal.

Artist’s impression of a camper at Lake Malcolm on the proposed Next Iconic Walk near the Tyndall Range. Picture: Supplied/JAWS Architects

According to the Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS), the Next Iconic Walk is being designed to “deliver economic and social benefits to Tasmania by creating a new walking experience that attracts visitors and encourages them to stay longer and spend more”.

“The Next Iconic Walk will provide a unique option for visitors and Tasmanians to get out in the great outdoors, challenge themselves, and experience our beautiful reserves first hand,” the PWS website says.

A 2021 feasibility study examined more than 50 potential track route options after 35 possible sites for the walk were narrowed down to the Tyndall Range.