The Egg Islands are a marshy patch of land located in the middle of the Huon River, running alongside the small township of Franklin. The enticingly moody forest-lined entrance to the 140 year old man-made canal dividing the island is visible from the Franklin shore and it’s a spot that I’ve always wanted to explore – when the ‘one day’ dream of owning and confidently making regular use of a kayak came to fruition. In the meantime, joining the occasional tour run by actual kayak owning professionals is a good alternative.
Although it was once farmed, the Egg Islands are now a reserve area that’s home to many rare and threatened species including Australian bitterns and grey goshawks. The Black Gums and Brookers Gums that have re-established on the island are also a threatened ecological community, making this spot even more important for the local environment. Spend even a little while in this area and you’re likely to spot White-bellied Sea Eagles, Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagles and Swamp Harriers, usually engaged in some kind of low level skirmish. The Huon River is relatively calm at this section, perfect for anyone who’s still gaining confidence in their kayaking or simply wants a relaxing paddle
[…] the Huon. Posted some highlights here. The Huon River is simply stunning. This is, however, only the second time I’ve ever floated […]