The newly opened McMullen's Mill Walk in Franklin Forest is already capturing the hearts and minds of visitors, offering a rare glimpse into Tasmania's timber history amid the serene backdrop of the native forest.

Launched by the Friends of Franklin Forest, the walk guides visitors through remnants of the historic steam-driven McMullen's Mill and brings the charm and significance of the area's heritage to life.

Alison Viner, from Cygnet, shared her enthusiasm after joining the inaugural tour.

"I was lucky to be on the first McMullen's Mill Walk with Friends of Franklin Forest.

"We learnt all about the history of the old mill and the big rusty steam boiler, as well as walking through the beautiful forest.

"The children on the walk all had a great time," Alison said.

She added that an unexpected highlight was "spotting the echidna doing its bum in the air 'I can't see you' thing, as we walked out."

Alison found the walk accessible and rewarding, appreciating the ease of the trail while still feeling deeply connected to the forest's natural beauty.

Reflecting on her experience back in Cygnet, she noticed flags flying for Mental Health Week, prompting thoughts on the importance of spending time in nature. "It made me think about how important it is for me to get outside and explore places that are still wild," said Alison.

Nina Thompson, a recent visitor from the mainland, echoed this sense of wonder after her chance discovery of Franklin Forest.

"I am just back from a week in Tasmania," Nina said, sharing her hopes to relocate to the Huon Valley.

Staying at an Airbnb in Cradoc, she noticed a recommendation for the Franklin Forest, calling it a "magical" experience.

On a whim, she and her partner took a detour off the New Road after a day at South Cape.

"We weren't sure we were in the right place," Nina admitted, describing their drive through residential, forested, and deforested landscapes before they finally saw signs to Franklin Forest.

What they found was a treasure of massive trees, lush moss, ferns, and quintessential Tasmanian wildlife.

"I have to say that out of my week in Tasmania, this was indeed the most magical and unexpected experience," said Nina.

"It's left me with sadness and dread to think that this priceless and rare ecosystem might be logged and destroyed forever."

Inspired by the Friends of Franklin Forest's advocacy, Nina feels compelled to add her voice in support of the forest's preservation.

"Apart from the environmental importance of this area-from a tourism perspective, it's up there with the best of what I saw in Tasmania and should be promoted as one of the many wonderfully diverse aspects of the Huon Valley," she said.

"It's a hidden gem and so precious."

The Friends of Franklin Forest continue to welcome visitors for monthly guided walks, aiming to foster greater community appreciation for Franklin Forest's unique beauty and history.

For more information on upcoming tours or ways to support the preservation of Franklin Forest, visit their website.