Hiking in Tasmania: The Best Single & Multi-day Hikes
Tasmania has enough hikes and trails to satisfy one for a lifetime. The state is often referred to as the hiking capital of Australia, and there’s no questioning why. At every end of the state, you’ll find a hike that satisfies your cravings. With its unique blend of pristine beaches, dense eucalypt forests, and rugged mountain ranges, Tasmania offers an unparalleled hiking experience.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the best hiking trails in Tasmania, ensuring you're well-prepared for your next adventure. From first-timers to experienced pros, there’s a hike here for you.
Before we begin, I’d like to highlight what a ‘hike’ is. If you’re looking for a walk that you can complete in under an hour, or maybe two, you won’t find it on this list.
According to Google, Cambridge Dictionary and Collins Dictionary:
A hike is a long walk.
If you’re after some short walks, you can find a guide to those here. For the rest of us, here is Tasmania’s best.
We’ll tackle some of the best day walks in Tasmania first. Most of these Tasmanian hikes will be at least 3 hours in length.
Each is categorised by location, includes a short description, and links to find out more details about each specific walk.
Day Walks at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Cradle Mountain Summit
Duration: 2 hours return (no breaks)
Distance: 12.8km return
A challenging track that leads to the picturesque summit of Cradle Mountain. This hike spans 12.8km and involves a 600m climb in elevation, crossing large rocks. Avoid this walk in the winter months.
Barn Bluff
Duration: All day (summer months only)
Distance: 27km return
The dolerite peak of Barn Bluff stands out, rising above the vast surrounding plateau. If you’re to tackle this within the day, you’ll want to start at Dove Lake, taking the shuttle from Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre.
Mount Ossa
Duration: 2 hours return (no breaks)
Distance: 6km return
If you’re walking the Overland Track, simply stay an extra night at New Pelion Hut and make it a day hike. If you want to do Ossa for a day hike without staying on the Overland Track, you’ll need to be ready for a long day and take the Arm River Track into Pelion before setting off for the summit of Ossa. This track is 24km return by itself and can take up to 7 hours to complete. The walk to Mount Ossa is an additional 10km return from New Pelion.
This is truly for those seeking adventure and willing to walk before and after the sun sets.
There is a great guide on this walk by Walking Tasmania here.
Day Walks at Freycinet National Park
Wineglass Bay, nestled within Freycinet National Park, is a testament to nature's artistry and Tasmania's coastal allure. With its turquoise waters and sparkling white sands, this bay is a must-visit for both seasoned travellers and nature enthusiasts.
Duration: 2 hours return (no breaks)
Distance: 6km return
Difficulty: Moderate (lots of stairs)
About the Wineglass Bay Walk
The Wineglass Bay walk offers hikers an opportunity to immerse themselves in one of Tasmania’s most celebrated landscapes. Starting from the walking tracks car park inside Freycinet National Park, the trail first leads to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. This vantage point provides a panoramic view that has become an iconic image of Tasmania.
For those wishing to get up close with the bay's beauty, the trail continues down approximately 1000 stairs, leading to the pristine sands of Wineglass Bay Beach. An additional 20-minute stroll along the shoreline to the southern end of the beach offers magnificent views back towards the Hazards, a rugged mountain range.
While the bay itself is a serene spectacle, during the migratory season, it becomes a playground for whales and dolphins, adding to the bay's charm.
The walk spans 6 km and is graded at a difficulty level of 3, indicating that some bushwalking experience is recommended. The trail may have short steep hill sections, a rough surface, and numerous steps. It's essential to wear appropriate walking boots and be prepared for the trek. While the walk to the beach is challenging, the return via the same track is the shortest and easiest route.
Facilities and Considerations
There are no facilities available along the track. However, a toilet is available at the starting carpark. It's crucial to carry essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection. Given the challenging nature of the walk, less fit individuals should allow extra time and take regular rest stops. These breaks can also serve as perfect opportunities to admire the breathtaking views.
Day Walks around Mount Wellington
If you’ve done any prior research on walks on Mount Wellington, these aren’t likely the walks you were expecting to see. That’s in no way intentional. It just so happens that the best hikes aren’t the most popular. Enjoy!
Milles Track to Wellington Falls via Disappearing Tarn
Duration: 6 hours return
Distance: 12km
Difficulty: Rough but not too steep
For the seasoned hiker, the Milles Track offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. Spanning approximately 12km, this trail offers panoramic views of Hobart and Bruny Island. A highlight of this trail is the Disappearing Tarn, a turquoise water body that emerges after heavy rains. The trail culminates at Wellington Falls, the largest waterfall in Wellington Park.
Cathedral Rock
Duration: 4 hours return
Distance: 9km
Sandwiched between Mount Wellington and the Huon Valley is Cathedral Rock, a walk I recommend to anyone in the area. The hike begins along the riverside before switching to a fire trail that zig-zags up towards the summit. Before too long, you’ll take a turn off to a tighter trail that feels more like climbing than walking, leading you right to the summit.
You can continue towards Mount Montagu, and even through to Wellington Falls if you’re up for a full circuit. Details on the circuit can be found here.
Collins Bonnet (Sleeping Beauty)
Duration: 5 hours return
Distance: 12km
I’m yet to do this walk myself, but have had too many recommendations to leave it off the list. The walk itself takes you through wet rainforests before reaching a rocky alpine plateau below the summit. Crazy to think this is hidden just a short drive from Hobart CBD.
For details on getting to the trailhead, head to Tas Trails!
This is where the real fun begins. If you’re new to hiking and haven’t ever embarked on a multi-day hike, I strongly encourage you to consider doing so. I understand it can be daunting - carrying a large pack, having enough food, bringing a tent, getting wet.. the list could go on.
If this is you, I’d recommend starting with a paid tour. The Tasmanian Walking Company is a great place to start. Yes, you’ll pay more, but it will ease you in and teach you what you need to go out on your own adventure.
For those who know what they’re doing, these tracks and trails are, what I believe, the only way to truly see Tasmania in all of its beauty. I can’t wait to share this list with you.
The Overland Track
About to embark on the overland track myself
Duration: 7 days one way
Distance: 65km
Regarded as one of Australia's best hikes, the Overland Track is a multi-day journey through the heart of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. I’ve tackled this once before, my first multi-day hike and a journey I’ll never forget. There are 6 huts along the Overland Track that you can sleep in. On my journey, I skipped two (Waterfall Valley Hut and New Pelion Hut). This resulted in long days and not as many opportunities to take in the views.
If I were to do it again, I’d plan to go for seven days (rather than five) and do sidewalks along the way, such as Mount Ossa, Tasmania’s tallest mountain.
Safety and Precautions:
The Overland Track is a challenge, especially given that almost half of the track is above 1000 metres in elevation in a remote alpine area. Rapid weather changes are common, and walkers must be well-prepared. For example, I went in the middle of winter and barely saw any snow. The next week, people were being helicoptered out due to blizzards.
It's essential to have the right gear, adequate food supplies, and a good understanding of the risks associated with remote alpine trekking. Don’t hike alone.
Booking and Fees:
During the peak season, from 1 October to 31 May, an Overland Track Pass Fee is applicable. This fee includes the park entry fee for the duration of the walk. Outside of this period, from 1 June to 30 September, walkers are required to register and have a valid park pass.
Frenchman’s Cap, Tasmania
Duration: 4 days (flexible)
Distance: 44km return
Perhaps my favourite multi-day hike to date. Frenchman’s cap is a battle of physical and mental strength. The hike will take you to the quartzite summit and reward you with 360-degree views of South-West Tasmania.
Most walkers will take 4 days to complete this, splitting the hike into sections as follows:
Day 1: Trailhead to Lake Vera (15km)
Day 2: Lake Vera to Lake Tahune (5.5 km)
Day 3: Climb the Summit, followed by Lake Tahune to Lake Vera (8.7km)
Day 4: Lake Vera to Trailhead (15km)
This is dependent on how long you have to hike and the weather forecast. I only had 3 days and managed that with 3 friends. Just. Day 1 was brutally long. We journeyed to Lake Tahune on day 1 and then one other in my group and I proceeded to climb the summit given we had clear skies. The views were stunning.
The next day, the summit was covered in fog. You never know what the weather will do in South-West Tasmania. Still, I climbed it again with another in my group that didn’t make the journey on day 1.
You’ll continue to be blown away by the views once you make it to the top of Barron Pass (the trek up will test all of your mental strength).
Find a trail map here on the Parks Tas website.
Safety and Precautions:
As per other walks, the weather conditions can change rapidly. Be well-prepared and equipped for all situations.
Booking and Registration:
You must register for this walk in advance here. A valid national parks pass is required.
Federation Peak, Tasmania
Duration: 4 days (flexible)
Distance: 46km return
“Australia’s Only Real Mountain” - Sir Edmund Hillary.
If that doesn’t speak for itself, I don’t know what else to say. Federation Peak is Tasmania’s crown jewel of mountains and not for the faint-hearted. During the final ascent, you are exposed to a rockface on one side, and a couple of hundreds metres of air behind you. It’s a long way down.
I’m yet to tackle this hike myself and can only speak from what I’ve heard from family who have tackled this. It’s technically challenging, requires experience, is full of picture-perfect landscapes, and is worth every moment. You will be physically drained throughout and much like any other multi-day hike, should come prepared.
It is recommended to complete in the summer months to maximise daylight hours.
Find more information and how to find the trailhead here on Alltrails.
The Three Capes Track
Duration: 4 days, 3 nights
Distance: 48km
The Three Capes Track is more than just a hike; it's an experience. Situated on the Tasman Peninsula, this trail offers cliff-top walks, with the vast expanse of the ocean accompanying you. The huts along the trail provide comfort, ensuring hikers can rest and rejuvenate for the journey ahead.
I’d highly recommend starting here for your first multi-day hike.
Journey Highlights:
The Three Capes Track is a 48-kilometre journey designed to be accessible for a broad range of ages and abilities. The track boasts a "dry-boot standard," constructed from various materials, including timber, stone, and gravel. It's wide enough to allow two people to walk side-by-side, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences.
The adventure commences at the Port Arthur Historic Site, where walkers check in. From there, a Pennicott Wilderness Journeys cruise transports walkers to the track's starting point at Denmans Cove. Over the course of four days, hikers traverse tall eucalypt forests, coastal heathlands, and witness the majesty of Australia’s highest sea cliffs.
The evenings offer a blend of comfort and nature. Walkers rest in environmentally-sensitive cabins named Surveyors, Munro, and Retakunna. These cabins provide warmth and comfort, ensuring that hikers are rejuvenated for the next day's trek.
Fees and Bookings:
Fees (from 1st July 2023): Adult - $595, Concession/Child - $476. The fee includes park entry to Tasman National Park.
Bookings: Essential. All details and bookings can be made on the Three Capes Track website.
Walls of Jerusalem National Park
Duration: 3 days (flexible)
Distance: 23km circuit
A hidden gem, the Walls of Jerusalem offers a unique multi-day hiking experience in Tasmania. As you walk along ancient forests, past pristine lakes, and ascend mountain summits, you'll be treated to some of the best views of Tasmania's wilderness. The park, lesser-known compared to others, provides a sense of solitude and connection with nature.
Journey Highlights:
The Walls of Jerusalem walk is a journey through Tasmania's high country. As you traverse the circuit, you'll encounter towering dolerite peaks that stand as sentinels over picturesque alpine valleys. Ancient groves of pencil pines, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth, dot the landscape, adding a touch of timelessness to the surroundings.
Water is an ever-present feature in this alpine wilderness. The park is home to numerous lakes, tarns, and trickling streams, each offering a serene backdrop to the trek. The extraordinary diversity of ground-hugging alpine plants, including the striking fields of scoparia, further enriches the experience.
Safety and Precautions:
The Walls of Jerusalem area is an exposed alpine region, and weather conditions can change rapidly. Walkers must be well-prepared and equipped for all eventualities. It's essential to have the right gear, adequate food supplies, and a good understanding of the risks associated with remote alpine trekking.
Outside of designated camping platforms, camping is discouraged to protect the sensitive alpine environment. If camping is necessary, avoid areas adjacent to water to prevent erosion. Walkers are also encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on this pristine environment.
Booking and Registration:
A valid park pass is required for entry to Tasmania's national parks. Walkers must register for this trek. Group bookings, ranging from 7 to a maximum of 16 individuals, must register their walk intentions with the Great Western Tiers PWS Field Centre.
Hiking in Tasmania requires preparation. Essential gear includes:
Good Quality Hiking Boots: The terrains in Tasmania can be unpredictable. Ensure your boots provide good grip and ankle support.
Weather-appropriate Clothing: Tasmania's weather can change rapidly. Layering is key. Pack for all conditions, even if the day starts sunny.
Navigation Tools: While major trails like the Overland Track are well-marked, always carry a map and compass.
First Aid Kit: Safety first! Ensure you have a basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptics, and pain relievers.
Food and Water: Always carry sufficient food and water, especially on trails where amenities are scarce.
Optional items might include a camera (for those Instagram-worthy shots), binoculars (birdwatching is popular in Tasmania), or trekking poles (especially for those challenging terrains).
Summer (December to February): The Peak Hiking Season
Pleasant Temperatures: Summer in Tasmania boasts mild and comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from 17°C to 23°C. These conditions are ideal for extended treks, allowing hikers to explore the trails without the burden of extreme cold or heat.
Longer Daylight Hours: The extended daylight hours of the Tasmanian summer provide hikers with more time to explore, ensuring they can cover greater distances and enjoy the landscapes in full daylight.
Accessible Trails: Most trails and high-altitude areas are free from snow, ensuring safer and more accessible hiking conditions.
Spring (September to November): A Season of Rebirth
Vibrant Flora: Spring is a time of rejuvenation in Tasmania. Hikers can witness the landscape coming alive with blooming wildflowers, budding trees, and lush greenery, enhancing the visual appeal of the trails.
Milder Temperatures: While slightly cooler than summer, spring offers moderate temperatures, making it comfortable for hiking without the summer crowds.
Wildlife Encounters: As the island awakens from its winter slumber, many native animals become more active, offering hikers a chance to witness Tasmania's rich biodiversity.
Autumn (March to May): A Symphony of Colors
Spectacular Foliage: Autumn in Tasmania is a visual treat. The deciduous beech, known locally as 'fagus,' turns a brilliant range of autumnal colors, from gold to deep red, offering a unique spectacle not seen anywhere else in Australia.
Cooler Climates: The crisp air and cooler temperatures of autumn are perfect for those who prefer hiking in a less warm environment. The chill in the air is invigorating, making treks more refreshing.
Fewer Crowds: With the peak summer season over, trails are less crowded in autumn, allowing for a more serene and intimate hiking experience.
Winter (June to August): A Tranquil Wonderland
Snow-Capped Peaks: Winter transforms many of Tasmania's high-altitude regions into mesmerizing snow-covered landscapes. The pristine white snow juxtaposed against the rugged terrain offers a unique hiking experience, especially for those seeking a winter wonderland adventure.
Serene Atmosphere: The chill of winter means fewer hikers on the trails, providing a peaceful and solitary experience. The quietude of the season allows for deep reflection and a closer connection to nature.
Starry Nights: The clear winter skies in Tasmania are a dream for stargazers. After a day of hiking, one can set up camp and witness the magnificent southern sky, adorned with constellations and, occasionally, the ethereal beauty of the Southern Lights or Aurora Australis.
Challenging Adventures: For seasoned hikers looking for a challenge, winter presents the perfect opportunity. The snow and icy conditions demand skill and preparation, making treks during this season a test of one's mettle and endurance.
Tasmania's public transport system is great within cities, however, for more remote locations, renting a car is advisable. This gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems.
Public Transport: The Budget Option
You’ll find that public transport is limited and you may not be able to reach some of the walks recommended in this guide. Some buses run once a day to these locations and due to the nature of public transport, takes considerably longer than if you were to drive there yourself.
If you choose to take public transport, plan ahead. Make sure you know that the bus goes to the destination you’re after. Public transport offers:
Affordability: Opting for public transport can be a cost-effective way to travel, especially for solo travellers or those on a tight budget.
Eco-Friendly Travel: Using public transport reduces the carbon footprint, making it an environmentally conscious choice for the eco-aware traveler.
Renting a Car: The Flexible Alternative
While public transport covers most popular destinations, Tasmania's true charm often lies off the beaten path. Renting a car offers several advantages:
Access to Remote Locations: Some of Tasmania's most breathtaking landscapes and trails are located in areas not serviced by public transport. A rented car ensures you don't miss out on these hidden treasures.
Flexibility: With a car at your disposal, you dictate your schedule. Whether you wish to start your day at dawn or take spontaneous detours, a car offers unparalleled freedom.
Comfort: Traveling by car allows you to store essential gear, snacks, and other necessities, ensuring you're always prepared, whether you're heading for a short day hike or a multi-day expedition.
Discover Hidden Gems: Tasmania is dotted with quaint towns, local eateries, and unique attractions. Having a car allows you to explore these lesser-known spots, enriching your overall travel experience.
Tasmania's diverse landscapes mean that trails can vary in difficulty. Always choose trails that match your fitness level. Moreover, Tasmania's weather can be unpredictable. Always check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Trail Difficulty and Personal Fitness:
Diverse Terrains: Tasmania's landscapes are incredibly varied. From coastal walks and gentle forest trails to challenging mountain ascents, the island offers something for everyone. It's essential to understand the nature of the trail you're embarking on.
Know Your Limits: Always assess your physical capabilities and choose trails that align with your fitness level. While challenging oneself can be rewarding, safety should never be compromised. If you're new to hiking or have any medical conditions, it's advisable to start with shorter, less strenuous trails.
Tasmania's Unpredictable Weather:
Changing Conditions: Tasmania's maritime climate means that weather conditions can change rapidly. A sunny morning can quickly turn into a rainy afternoon, especially in alpine regions.
Stay Informed: Before setting out, always check the latest weather forecasts for the area you plan to hike in. Websites, local radio stations, and the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service provide up-to-date weather information.
Dress in Layers: Given the fluctuating weather, dressing in layers is advisable. This allows you to add or remove clothing as conditions change. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential, even if the forecast looks clear.
Essential Gear and Provisions:
Be Prepared: Apart from suitable clothing, ensure you have essential gear like a topographic map, compass, first-aid kit, adequate water, and high-energy snacks. For longer hikes, emergency shelter or a bivvy bag can be a lifesaver.
Stay Hydrated: Even on cooler days, hiking can be strenuous. Always carry sufficient water and consider using water purification tablets or filters if sourcing water from natural streams.
Tasmania, with its diverse landscapes and world-class trails, is a hiker's paradise. Whether you're looking for a day walk or a multi-day adventure, Tasmania has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, lace up those boots, and embark on a journey through one of Australia's best hiking destinations.
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Tasmania is home to unique wildlife like wallabies, wombats, and the Tasmanian devil.
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Yes, many tour operators offer guided hikes, ensuring you get the best experience.
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Camping is allowed in designated areas with a valid permit.
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Layering is key. Always pack for all conditions.
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Major trails are well-marked, but always carry a map and compass.
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