Gladstone lies on the boundary of Mount William/Bay of Fires National Park. Its location makes the town a convenient base for exploring nature and culture in the surrounding area.

Hikes and wildlife in the nearby national park

Mount William National Park has a variety of hikes. The park is accessible from Gladstone via secondary roads; access via St Helens is also indicated. The Cobler Rocks Track is 6 km long, with a stated walking time of 2 hours. The distance and walking time give you a practical guide for planning your day. Check current track conditions before setting out, and check park authority guidance before driving.

Wildlife also shapes the character of the nearby park: it is home to Forester kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, Tasmanian devils, Bennett’s wallabies and pademelons, among other animals. Those interested in wildlife watching will find a different perspective on the area here than on the hiking trails.

Cultural connections around Gladstone

Nearby is wukalina/Mount William. This culturally significant place has a dual name and is known as wukalina; the national park is named after Mount William. The surrounding area therefore brings together a natural landscape and a place of cultural significance.

There is also a specific heritage connection in town: in October 2023, the former All Saints Church at 46 Chaffey Street was permanently entered in the Tasmanian Heritage Register.

Getting around town

Gladstone Park is at 1 Carr Street in Gladstone. It has public toilets, a free barbecue, a covered picnic area and a children’s playground; camping is also possible. Check local conditions before you arrive if you plan to use these facilities.

Driving times to Gladstone Park are listed as 45 minutes from Bridport and 1.5 hours from Launceston. These are estimates and may vary depending on the route and conditions. They can help you work Gladstone into your travel plans, but should not be treated as fixed journey times.

Services and accommodation

For visitors to Mount William National Park, Gladstone is the nearest town for groceries, petrol, firewood, meals and accommodation. Individual services may change. The national park also has six designated camping areas. This gives you different options for planning an overnight stay: accommodation in Gladstone or camping in the park. Check accommodation availability or current park information before travelling.

For reference around town: Gladstone Store at 30 Chaffey Street is associated with a petrol station, post office and bottle shop. Gladstone Hotel at 37 Chaffey Street is associated with bistro meals for dining in or takeaway. Current options may change; check which services or food options are available before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Upper Blessington, Coles Bay, Randalls Bay, Huonville, Chudleigh, George Town, Port Huon, Hillwood.

For the broader travel overview: Tasmania.