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Duckhole Lake Walk: Hidden Gem in Tasmania’s South

Duckhole Lake Walk: Hidden Gem in Tasmania’s South

By: Author Olly Gaspar

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Olly Gaspar

By Olly Gaspar, full-time traveler for 6 years. I visit every place I write about & share real tips, photos, & advice from my trips.

Everything you need to know about the scenic lake walk in Tasmania’s far-south wilderness area.

The Duckhole Lake track is a short 4.4 km return walk near Hastings in the south of Tasmania. Although it is refered to as a lake it is actually a flooded sinkhole that is part of the area’s extensive regional cave and karst system.

We spent an early rainy morning at this hidden gem and watched as platypuses, ducks, and fish splashed around in the water. It’s a beautiful place to have a picnic under the trees and you’ll most probably have it all to yourself.

Below I explain everything you need to head out to Duckhole Lake in Tasmania. You’ll also find loads of photographs that I captured during my visit.

Duck on duckhole lake

How to Get to Duckhole Lake

The Duckhole Lake trailhead is located on an unsealed road known as Creekton Road, approximately 15 km from nearby Hastings, or 105 km from Hobart.

Location: Duckhole Lake

Getting to the trailhead can be a little confusing since there are several different road options to take. The roads are mostly unsealed but managed by most vehicle types. Below is a detailed guide to get here following the same route I took. This also leads to the nearby Adamsons Falls track.

Begin by heading towards "Hastings Caves & Thermal Springs". Just 1.7 km before you reach the visitor centre on Hastings Caves Road, there is an unsigned dirt road on your right called Tughanah Road. Turn onto this road and follow it until you get to a three-way fork, where you will then need to take the right fork onto Creekton Road. (don't take the first right onto Facy Road).

Follow Creekton Road for another 3.6 km until you reach a T-intersection with a sign showing left for Adamsons Falls and right for Duckhole Lake. Obviously, you'll need to make a right turn here. Immediately after, you'll cross an old wooden bridge. The car park for Duckhole Lake is immediately after this bridge on your right.

Duckhole lake walking track map
Photo: Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service
Sunset on a winding road in tasmania

Car Rentals in Tasmania

Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years. Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using DiscoverCars in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.

(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).

Compare On DiscoverCars

The Duckhole Lake Walk

  • Hiking Distance: 4.4 km return
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Elevation: Mostly flat
  • Difficulty: Easy

The walk follows a very well-built, mostly boarded track through dense temperate rainforest. It is located just on the edge of the Southwest National Park, one of Tasmania's most remote wilderness areas.

Remember: A valid parks pass is required for entry to Tasmania's national parks.

Duckhole lake walk tasmania

Although the official trail map at the start of the walk shows a track around Duckhole Lake, this is incorrect. As a result, you'll also find a couple of signposts addressing this near the lake and one at the start.

The track begins by traversing a narrow but flat trail passing rows of beautiful ferns along a gentle, tannin-rich creek. After less than 1 km, the wooden planks and boardwalk begins. These make the Duckhole Lake track really easy and pleasant as you won't be slogging through knee-deep mud on the way.

Duckhole lake walk in southwest national park tasmania

After roughly 2 km you'll arrive at a small wooden bridge just before Duckhole Lake.

Bridge at duckhole lake tasmania
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What to Expect at Duckhole Lake

As mentioned, Duckhole Lake is actually a sinkhole that has been filled by rainwater. There are usually a few ducks swimming in this natural rainforest pool and if you're lucky, you might even spot a platypus or two like we did.

Wild tasmanian platypus

There is a small wooden plank bench right next to the lake in front of a large clearing where you can have a picnic or enjoy the magical reflections of the towering eucalypt trees.

Duckhole lake sinkhole tasmania

Once you're ready to turn back, follow the same track back to the car park. Alternatively, it's possible to continue on towards Creekton Falls.

Unfortunately, we didn't have time for this as we had a booking for Hastings Caves but this waterfall is said to be really impressive, although slightly smaller than the nearby Adamsons Falls. Keep in mind though that this trail is much more difficult and will require bushwalking experience.

Don't miss nearby: Hastings Caves & Thermal Springs

Duckhole lake

Tip: Remember to always pack enough food, water and adequate clothing when hiking in Tasmania. It is known for its erratic weather changes and you might see four seasons in one day. Trust me when I say you'll want to be prepared for rain, sunshine or wind.

Duckhole lake walk 6509572
Huge trees in southwest national park tasmania

Platypus Spotting

We spotted 2 playpus during our visit in the early morning here. We found that they're very sensitive to noise and will hide if they think they are in danger. Below are some simple steps to help spot a platypus on your trip!

  • Make sure you keep quiet
  • Find a place along the lake and sit quietly without making any sudden movements
  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a better chance of seeing them
  • Bring binoculars or a long lense camera as they may be far away and harder to spot

Where to Stay Near Hastings Caves

Southern forest accommodation, tasmania

1. Southern Forest Southport

Tucked away amongst the bush you'll find this 2 bedroom cottage offering a tranquil atmosphere and large outdoor balcony with views over a beautiful garden. If getting off-grid is your thing you'll love Southern Forest.

Far south eco-cabin, southern tasmania

2. Far South Eco-Cabin Lune River

Another cozy choice for those looking for isolation. This 2 bedroom house offers a fireplace, large living areas, and views over the breathtaking landscapes of the Lune River.

Dorm beds at river run lodge

3. River Run Lodge Strathblane

A beautiful lodge sitting on the edge of the river with dorm and family rooms available. A restaurant and bar are located on-site and kayaking, fishing and hiking can be enjoyed from the property.

Did you enjoy this quick and useful guide to the Duckhole Lake walk in southern Tasmania?

For more adventure travel guides including inspiration for hikes, waterfalls, attractions and activities, make sure to check out some of the other articles in my blog.

Categories Tasmania Australia Hiking

Olly Gaspar About Olly
Thanks for Reading

I'm Olly Gaspar, adventure traveler from Australia. I’ve spent the last six years traveling the world full-time, sharing my first-hand experiences & photography in over 700 travel guides on We Seek Travel. I visit every destination I write about to bring you unique travel itineraries, epic hiking routes, fun tour ideas, travel & photography gear ideas, & interesting places to stay.

I only make genuine, worthwhile recommendations based on my experience, expertise, & research. If you buy through my links, I may get a commission, supporting this website at no extra cost to you. Read my Publishing Ethics Statement.