Today, I’m excited to share with you some of the most ripper motorcycle routes in Tasmania that don’t get nearly enough attention. As someone who’s spent countless hours with the wind in my face exploring the Apple Isle, I reckon these hidden gems deserve a proper spotlight. So grab a cuppa, and let’s dive into five underrated motorcycle routes that’ll have you revving your engine in no time!
1. The Western Explorer (C249)
Crikey, if you want to feel like you’re riding through the end of the earth, the Western Explorer is your ticket. This unsealed road stretches from Arthur River to Zeehan, cutting through some of the most untouched wilderness you’ll ever see. It’s not for the faint-hearted or those on road bikes, but if you’ve got an adventure bike or dual-sport, you’re in for a bloody treat. The isolation is part of the charm – sometimes you won’t see another soul for hours. Pack extra fuel and supplies, as service stations are about as rare as hen’s teeth out there.
2. Tasman Peninsula Loop
While most tourists flock to Port Arthur for the historic site, we bikers know the real treasure is the road getting there! The loop around the Tasman Peninsula offers some fair dinkum, beautiful coastal scenery with enough twisties to keep you grinning behind your helmet. Start from Sorell and head through Dunalley, then wind your way down to Port Arthur before looping back. The road hugs the coastline with stunning views of the dolerite cliffs and the deep blue Tasman Sea. Chuck in a stop at the Tessellated Pavement or Remarkable Cave, and you’ve got yourself a bonza day out!
3. Wielangta Forest Drive
Strewth, this one’s a beauty! Connecting the east coast towns of Orford and Marion Bay, this forest road cuts through the heart of Wielangta Forest. It’s a mix of sealed and unsealed sections, but generally rideable on most bikes if you take it easy on the gravel bits. The towering eucalypts create a magical canopy, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a Tassie devil or wedge-tailed eagle. There’s barely any traffic, which means you can really enjoy the ride at your own pace without some drongo in a car holding you up.
4. The Highland Lakes Road Alternative
While everyone and their dog takes the main Highland Lakes Road (A5) between Deloraine and Bothwell, there’s a less-travelled route via Golden Valley, Poatina, and Arthurs Lake that’ll knock your socks off. The highlight is the Poatina Road, which climbs nearly 800 meters up the side of the Great Western Tiers in just 10km with 11 hairpin turns. Once you’re up on the plateau, the roads around Arthur’s Lake offer spectacular alpine scenery and smooth, sweeping corners. Fair warning, it can get pretty cold up there even in summer, so pack your winter gear!
5. North East Trail via Derby and Weldborough
This little ripper of a route takes you through the heart of what’s becoming mountain bike central, but is still underappreciated by us motorcycle enthusiasts. From Launceston, head up to Scottsdale, then wind your way through the lush forests to Derby. The road between Derby and Weldborough Pass is an absolute pearler – tight corners, minimal traffic, and rainforest scenery that’ll make you want to stop for a hundred photos. Cap it off with a cold one at the historic Weldborough Hotel, where they specialise in Tassie craft beers, before continuing on to St Helens or back to Launceston via Pyengana.
Tips for Tackling These Routes:
- Always check the weather before heading out – Tassie’s climate can change faster than you can say “where’s my raincoat?”
- Let someone know your planned route, especially for the more remote ones like the Western Explorer.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, particularly at dawn and dusk – hitting a pademelon or wombat will ruin your day quicker than a flat tire.
- Fuel up whenever you can – service stations can be few and far between in the more remote areas.
- Consider accommodation options in advance if you’re planning multi-day trips, as some of these small towns have limited options that book out during peak season.
There you have it, cobbers – five underrated motorcycle routes in Tassie that deserve more love. Each offers something special, whether it’s challenging riding, spectacular scenery, or just the peaceful isolation that we all sometimes crave when we throw a leg over our bikes.
Have you ridden any of these routes? Got your own hidden gem to share? Chuck your thoughts in the comments below – I’m always keen to discover new roads for my next adventure!
Written by Michael Bankier
