Arthur River - TAS

Arthur River is the name of a small township on the Northern West Coast of Tasmania. The town straddles a river of the same name near its mouth. The most convenient way to get there is via Smithton and Marrawah. The road south of the town leads through the Arthur Pieman onservation Area and will take you to Waratah, Zeehan and other points in the south west corner of Tasmania.

Named after Sir George Arthur, Lieutenant Governor of Van Diemens Land (1824–36), the town draws its name from the river. The region has been exploited commercially for timber and fisheries, but today is mostly a centre for tourism.

The town has a permanent population of around 100 but increases considerably at holiday time, particularly in the Summer when holiday makers come to enjoy the bush walking, fishing and four-wheel-driving. These are the most common activities undertaken by travellers as they enjoy the unspoiled wilderness. The town offers various types of accommodation, including permanent holiday houses and cabins as well as two tourist parks for campers and caravaners. Other accommodation is probably on offer.

Cruise boats offer tours of the Arthur River to provide access to its famous reflections that occur under suitable conditions. A newish bridge spans the river joining the two parts of the town. The town has a pub, grocery store and a National Parks office.