Central Plateau Conservation Area

The Central Plateau Conservation Area is a remote sub-alpine wilderness located in the heart of Tasmania, renowned for its numerous alpine tarns and diverse wildlife. Situated on the northern edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, it is flanked by Great Lake to the east and the Walls of Jerusalem National Park to the west. This vast tract of land is often referred to as the 'land of a thousand lakes' due to its myriad of small lakes and tarns.

Visitors to the area can enjoy activities such as fishing, bushwalking, and horse riding. The region is particularly popular among anglers, offering world-class wild trout fisheries. The challenging nature of trout fishing here is attributed to the wily nature of the trout, the diversity of the waters, and the variability of the weather. Horse riding is permitted for experienced riders with mounts accustomed to rough terrain, and riders must register with the Greater Western Tiers field centre. Some areas require permits and have number limits.

The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including wombats, spotted-tail quolls, wallabies, ringtail possums, and long-nosed potoroos. Birdlife is abundant, with species such as yellow-tailed black cockatoos and Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagles commonly observed. Reptiles like mountain dragons, snow skinks, and snakes are also present. The lakes support a diverse array of aquatic invertebrates, including unique species like the mountain shrimp and burrowing crayfish.

Access to the Central Plateau Conservation Area is via the Highland Lakes Road (A5), which forms the eastern boundary of the conservation area. The road is accessible from the south via the Midland Highway at Melton Mowbray and from the north via the Bass Highway at Deloraine. The area is un-serviced by the state's major road network, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended for exploring the interior beyond Lake Augusta. A boom gate on Lake Augusta Road just beyond the Thousand Lakes Lodge is closed from mid-May to October for public safety. Visitors are advised to contact the Great Western Tiers Field Centre to ensure road conditions are suitable during these times.

Please note that the Central Plateau Conservation Area is a Fuel Stove Only Area, and campfires are prohibited. Dogs and bikes are not permitted on the trails. Companion dogs may be permitted by authority on some tracks; contact the Great Western Tiers field centre for more details. The area is subject to changeable and severe weather conditions in all seasons; it is recommended to check the weather forecast before visiting.