The Hellyer River in Tasmania's northwest flows through forestry concessions and the Milkshakes reserve, offering a mix of technical whitewater in its upper reaches and more accessible paddling downstream. The river runs through a shallow valley and provides numerous rainforest vistas throughout its length.

The upper Hellyer, above Hellyer Gorge, is considerably more technical and difficult, and is only runnable after recent rainfall. Below Takone West, the river can be paddled year-round, though conditions after January may be somewhat scratchy due to lower water levels. The wet season runs mainly from June to October, though unseasonal rainfall is common, particularly on the West Coast.

Four distinct trips are commonly paddled on the Hellyer. The first runs from Cradle Link Road to Hellyer Gorge, covering 16 km in approximately 3–4 hours at grade three, featuring excellent scenery and numerous 1–2 metre drops. Logs across the river are a noted hazard on this section. The second trip runs from Hellyer Gorge to Blackwells Bridge, also 16 km and taking around 3 hours, consisting mainly of grade 1–2 rapids over rock shelves, with a 30-minute car shuttle. The third trip, Blackwells Bridge to Takone West Bridge, covers 17 km in about 3.5 hours; the first 15 km is grade 1–2, finishing with a longer grade 3 rapid known as "the Mouth" just before the Takone West bridge.

The Hellyer connects with the Arthur River, and the combined Arthur/Hellyer system offers a 165 km journey from Hellyer Gorge to Arthur River Heads, described as a 6-day camping trip suitable for most beginners who can paddle in a straight line. Camp sites are plentiful along the route. The lower sections of the river have received recognition as among the best day paddles in Australia, with the river noted for its numerous waterfalls. The overall character of the river shifts from demanding technical whitewater in the upper gorge to a more accessible, rainforest-lined journey through the lower valley.