Lake Oberon

Like Lake Geeves, Lake Oberon is situated high in the West Arthur range in the wilderness area of south-western Tasmania. Many of the mountain lakes in the Arthurs are named after the planets and their satellites, the smaller after the asteroids and peaks after the constellations. For those who brave the elements and trek though the range, these names seem strangely appropriate, given the extra-terrestrial feeling one gets when hiking across the mountain tops of this breathtaking region. Few return believing there is another walk in Australia that can top this one.



The serenity of alpine lakes nestling below some of the most awesome and jagged skyline is a sight one never forgets. Lake Oberon itself seems to capture the mood of the Arthurs, peaceful enough at first, but an Antarctic storm can be conjured up within hours, and then it becomes a Darth Vader-like gatekeeper for the jagged ridges of Mt Pegasus, Mt Capricorn and Tilted Chasm.


Mt Hayes, West Arthurs

Western Arthur Range

South-west Tasmania contains some of the most remote, challenging and wild scenery anywhere in Australia, and the Western Arthur Range is arguably the wildest and most spectacular part of the south-west. The range contains 22 peaks and 20 hanging lakes; the fact it is 15km long and takes most walkers 4-5 days to traverse gives an indication of the nature of the terrain. The mountains are a jumble of jagged quartzite and cop the full force of the Roaring Forties - any treks in this region should only be attempted by experienced walkers. But for those that make the effort, this is often the trip of a lifetime.


View of the West Arthurs from The Phoenix

The Western Arthurs is one of the rare places where light and weather conditions are not all that important in taking a great wilderness photo. If you're lucky enough to get a clear sunrise or sunset the peaks look incredible, but it isn't essential. The fact is it rains here most of the year and the views are dramatic even on dull overcast days. Dark clouds heighten the sense of rugged wildness.


Lake Cygnus

If the weather is clear it makes sense to head to a high point early and late in the day, and if it's cloudy it's still worth the effort; even a thin ray of sunlight can create dramatic photos. At the western end of the range Mount Hesperus provides a grandstand view and the ridge above Lake Cygnus has views back to Mount Hesperus from near the top of the steps that descend to the lake. Continue on the main path past the eastern end of Lake Cygnus to reach a high point with excellent views of Mount Hayes (a good sunset spot).

• Trekking The west Arthur Range