Archers Knob Walk
- July 28, 2026
Archers Knob is one of Tasmania's finest short walks, combining diverse landscapes with excellent wildlife viewing and unforgettable coastal scenery.
The Coastal Traverse Walk is one of the longest and most rewarding bushwalks in Narawntapu National Park. Following the park’s beautiful coastline between Bakers Beach and Badger Head, the walk combines remote beaches, rocky headlands, coastal heath, native forest and sweeping views across Bass Strait.
This is a substantial one-way walk that requires a good level of fitness, suitable preparation and transport arrangements at both ends. For experienced walkers, the Coastal Traverse provides an opportunity to explore one of the quietest and most impressive sections of Tasmania’s north coast.
Location: Narawntapu National Park, Tasmania
Distance: Approximately 20 km one way
Time: Approximately 7–9 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Track Type: One-way coastal traverse
Track Surface: Beach sand, rocky shoreline, coastal heath and bush tracks
Best Time: Spring through Autumn, although conditions should always be checked before setting out.
The Coastal Traverse follows a varied route through beaches, coastal heathland, rocky headlands and sections of native forest. Long stretches of soft sand can make the walk more tiring than the distance might suggest.
Some sections are exposed to strong coastal winds, direct sunlight and rapidly changing weather. The route is more remote than the shorter walks near Springlawn, and there are no facilities or reliable drinking-water supplies along the way.
The walk includes:
The Coastal Traverse is best suited to experienced walkers with a reasonable level of fitness. While the route does not involve major mountain climbing, its length, soft sand, exposed terrain and lack of facilities make it a demanding full-day walk.
Walkers should be confident navigating natural coastal terrain and should carry sufficient food, drinking water and clothing for changing conditions.
Because this is a one-way walk, transport must be arranged before starting.
Remote Coastal Scenery
The Coastal Traverse passes through one of the quietest sections of Narawntapu National Park, with impressive views across:
The changing landscape makes this one of the most varied coastal walks in northern Tasmania.
Long Sandy Beaches
Much of the walk follows undeveloped beaches where walkers can enjoy broad coastal views and the sound of Bass Strait. Depending on the day and season, you may walk for long periods without seeing many other visitors.
Native Wildlife
Narawntapu National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife.
Wildlife is most active during the early morning and late afternoon.
Coastal Heath and Wildflowers
The route passes through areas of low coastal heath that can be particularly colourful during spring and early summer. Walkers should remain on the recognised route wherever possible to avoid damaging fragile vegetation.
Views Across Bass Strait
Open beaches and elevated coastal sections provide uninterrupted views across Bass Strait and along Tasmania’s central north coast.
The Coastal Traverse is a remote full-day walk with no reliable drinking water, shelters or other facilities along the route.
Before setting out:
Walkers should be prepared to change their plans or turn back if weather, tides or track conditions make it unsafe to continue.
The complete Coastal Traverse is not generally recommended for young children due to its length, exposure, soft sand and lack of facilities.
Older children and teenagers with substantial bushwalking experience may be able to complete the walk with experienced adults.
Families looking for a shorter option may prefer the Archers Knob Walk, the Point Vision Walk or one of the short walks around Springlawn.
No. Dogs and other domestic animals are not permitted on the Coastal Traverse or elsewhere within Narawntapu National Park.
This restriction helps protect native wildlife, nesting shorebirds and the park’s sensitive coastal environment.
The Coastal Traverse extends between the Bakers Beach area and Badger Head within Narawntapu National Park.
Because this is a one-way walk, most walkers use two vehicles. One vehicle should be left at the finishing point before travelling to the starting point in the second vehicle.
Access conditions and parking arrangements should be checked before travelling, particularly after heavy rain or severe weather.
There are no toilets, drinking-water taps, shelters or food outlets along the Coastal Traverse itself.
Basic facilities are available near established visitor and camping areas elsewhere in Narawntapu National Park. Walkers must carry all rubbish out with them and follow Leave No Trace principles.
The Coastal Traverse is one of northern Tasmania’s finest long coastal bushwalks. Over the course of a full day, walkers experience remote beaches, rocky headlands, native wildlife, coastal heathland and uninterrupted views across Bass Strait.
Although the walk requires careful preparation and suitable transport arrangements, it offers a memorable journey through one of the most peaceful and undeveloped sections of Narawntapu National Park.
For experienced walkers looking for a challenging coastal adventure, the Coastal Traverse deserves a place on the itinerary.
Archers Knob is one of Tasmania's finest short walks, combining diverse landscapes with excellent wildlife viewing and unforgettable coastal scenery.
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