Road Conditions & Safety

Tasmania's road network, while scenic, requires a careful approach from drivers. The major highways connecting cities like Hobart, Launceston, and Devonport are generally well-maintained, but many of the most popular tourist routes consist of narrow, winding, and sometimes steep roads. Be prepared for frequent changes in direction and elevation, and remember that travel times can be significantly longer than what a map or GPS might suggest. Furthermore, many routes to beautiful national parks and remote areas include unsealed gravel roads. While often in good condition, these can become slippery and challenging, especially after rain, and some rental car agreements prohibit travel on them.

One road that should be avoided is the Wielangta Road (also known as Wielangta Forest Drive) which is the route that Google Maps suggest when driving from Port Arthur to Triabunna. This is a largely unsealed (gravel) route only recommended for 4WD vehicles. The road you SHOULD take to avoid any unsealed sections and ensure a smooth journey from Port Arthur to Triabunna is the Arthur Highway (A9) all the way to Dunalley, then continue on the A9 which becomes the Tasman Highway (A9/A3) north through Sorell, then take the Tasman Highway (A3) north to Triabunna. Another option is the C335 to Buckland and then the A3 to Triabunna. This one is shorter and the one we took. It's also unsealed but there aren't any big potholes or anything so it's a fairly smooth drive.

Driving in Tasmania also means sharing the road with an abundance of wildlife. The state has a high rate of animal-related vehicle accidents, with most incidents occurring between dusk and dawn when nocturnal animals like wallabies and possums are most active. To mitigate this risk, it is highly recommended to avoid driving at night if possible. If you must drive, reduce your speed significantly, especially in areas with wildlife warning signs, and keep a constant lookout for movement on the side of the road. If an animal appears on the road, brake firmly but do not swerve, as this can lead to a more dangerous head-on collision or loss of vehicle control. In the unfortunate event of hitting a marsupial, and it is safe to do so, check the pouch for any surviving young, as they can often be rescued. Drag the animal to the side of the road.