Tasmania's Wild Side: Hiking the Overland Track

Tasmania's Overland Track is Australia's premier alpine walk—a 65-kilometer, six-day journey through the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. From the iconic Cradle Mountain to the serene shores of Lake St Clair, this remarkable trail traverses a landscape of ancient rainforests, alpine plateaus, fragrant eucalypt woodlands, and pristine mountain lakes. For many hikers, completing the Overland Track is a bucket-list experience that provides not just a physical challenge, but a profound connection to one of the world's most pristine wilderness areas. This comprehensive guide will prepare you for the adventure of a lifetime on Tasmania's most famous multi-day hike.

The Overland Track: An Introduction

The Overland Track runs from Cradle Mountain in the north to Lake St Clair in the south, cutting through the stunning terrain of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. While the main track is 65 kilometers, numerous side trips to mountain summits and hidden valleys can extend the journey for those with time and energy to explore further.

Most hikers walk the track from north to south, beginning with the challenging climb up to Marion's Lookout near Cradle Mountain and gradually descending to finish at Australia's deepest natural freshwater lake, Lake St Clair. During the peak season (October 1 to May 31), the track must be walked in this direction to manage traffic flow and reduce environmental impact.

The track is well-maintained with boardwalks over fragile alpine vegetation and muddy sections, while still offering a genuine wilderness experience. Six public huts provide basic accommodation along the route, though carrying a tent is mandatory as huts can fill up, especially during peak season.

When to Go

Peak Season (October to May)

The most popular time to hike is during Tasmania's warmer months, when days are longer and conditions generally more favorable. During this period:

• Bookings are mandatory and must be made in advance through the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service
• A track fee applies (approximately AUD $200 per adult)
• The track must be walked north to south
• Rangers are stationed along the track to provide information and assistance

Within peak season, different months offer distinct experiences:

• October-November: Spring brings wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, though snow can still be present on higher sections
• December-February: Summer offers warmer weather and longer days, but this is also the busiest period
• March-May: Autumn brings colorful fagus (deciduous beech) displays and fewer hikers, though days grow shorter and weather more variable

Off-Season (June to September)

Winter hiking is for experienced alpinists only. During these months:

• Snow can cover large sections of the track
• Daylight hours are limited
• Weather can be extreme with blizzards, sub-zero temperatures, and strong winds
• Advanced navigation skills are essential as snow can obscure track markers
• No bookings are required, but you must register your intentions and carry safety equipment including a personal locator beacon

For most hikers, we recommend planning your trek during peak season for safety and comfort.

Physical Preparation

The Overland Track is a moderately difficult hike that requires good physical fitness. While not technically challenging, it involves:

• Carrying a backpack weighing 15-20kg for 6+ days
• Walking 10-12km daily over varied terrain
• Negotiating steep ascents and descents, particularly in the northern section
• Enduring potentially harsh weather conditions

To prepare for the track, we recommend:

• Regular cardio exercise (hiking, cycling, swimming) at least 3 months before your trip
• Practice hikes with a loaded backpack
• Specific training on hills or stairs to build leg strength
• Core strengthening exercises to support carrying a pack

Even with preparation, expect some muscle soreness in the first few days. Building in rest days or shorter walking days early in your itinerary can help your body adjust.

Essential Gear

Tasmania's weather is notoriously changeable, with all four seasons possible in a single day, even in summer. Your gear list should account for rain, wind, sun, and potentially snow.

Clothing

Layer your clothing to adapt to changing conditions:

• Base layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (avoid cotton)
• Mid layers: Fleece or down jacket for insulation
• Outer layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Hiking pants: Quick-drying, preferably convertible to shorts
• Headwear: Warm beanie and sun hat
• Gloves: Waterproof or quick-drying
• Socks: 3-4 pairs of good quality hiking socks (merino wool recommended)
• Camp clothes: A clean, dry set for evenings in the hut

Footwear

Your boots are perhaps your most important piece of equipment:

• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
• Boots should be well broken-in before the track
• Camp shoes or sandals for resting feet in the evenings
• Gaiters to keep debris and moisture out of your boots

Shelter and Sleeping

• Tent: Lightweight, waterproof, and suitable for alpine conditions (even if you plan to use huts)
• Sleeping bag: Rated for at least 0°C (32°F), even in summer
• Sleeping mat: For insulation and comfort

Cooking and Food

• Stove and fuel: Lightweight camping stove (gas or methylated spirits)
• Cooking pot: One pot is usually sufficient
• Utensils: Spork or cutlery, cup, bowl/plate
• Water bottles: Capacity for at least 2 liters
• Water purification: Tablets, filter, or UV purifier
• Food: Lightweight, high-energy meals for 6+ days (see food planning section)

Navigation and Safety

• Map and compass: Know how to use them
• GPX tracks: Loaded on a GPS device or smartphone app
• First aid kit: Including blister treatment, pain relief, bandages
• Personal locator beacon (PLB): Highly recommended as there is no mobile coverage
• Headlamp: With spare batteries
• Multi-tool or knife
• Whistle: For emergencies
• Sunscreen and insect repellent

Miscellaneous

• Backpack: 65-75 liter capacity with good hip support
• Pack cover: Waterproof
• Dry bags: For electronics and clothing
• Toilet paper and trowel: For toilet stops away from facilities
• Camera: Tasmania's landscapes are spectacular
• Power bank: For charging devices
• Notebook and pen: For journaling your experience

Remember, everything you carry adds weight, so be judicious in your packing. Multi-purpose items are valuable, and unnecessary luxuries should be left behind.

Food Planning

Effective food planning is crucial for an enjoyable hike. You'll need high-energy, lightweight foods that are simple to prepare with limited cooking equipment.

Daily Energy Requirements

Hiking with a full pack burns significantly more calories than normal daily activities. Plan for approximately 3,000-4,000 calories per day, with a good balance of:

• Carbohydrates: For immediate energy
• Proteins: For muscle recovery
• Fats: For sustained energy and warmth

Meal Suggestions

Breakfast:

• Instant oatmeal with dried fruits and nuts
• Granola with powdered milk
• Instant coffee or tea
• Energy bars for a quick start

Lunch & Snacks:

• Wraps or flatbreads with hard cheese and salami (for the first few days)
• Nut butters and honey
• Trail mix, dried fruits, and nuts
• Energy bars and chocolate
• Beef jerky or other dried meats

Dinner:

• Freeze-dried hiking meals (convenient but expensive)
• Instant rice or noodles with dehydrated vegetables and proteins
• Couscous with dried vegetables and tuna (from packets, not cans)
• Pasta with powdered sauce and parmesan cheese
• Instant mashed potatoes with bacon bits
• Cup-a-soups for starters on cold evenings

Drinks & Treats:

• Electrolyte tablets or powders to add to water
• Hot chocolate for cold evenings
• Tea or coffee
• Small amount of whiskey or port (optional luxury for celebrations)

Food Packaging Tips

• Remove excess packaging before the hike to reduce weight and waste
• Repackage food in ziplock bags labeled with day/meal
• Consider preparing and dehydrating your own meals for cost savings and dietary preferences
• Pack one day's worth of snacks in an accessible pocket for easy access while walking

Water

Water is available at all huts and from numerous streams along the track. Always:

• Treat all water before drinking, even from seemingly pristine sources
• Carry enough water for each day's walking (minimum 2 liters)
• Refill at huts whenever possible

The Route: Day by Day

The traditional Overland Track takes six days to complete, though many hikers add extra days for side trips or to account for bad weather. Here's a typical itinerary:

Day 1: Ronny Creek to Waterfall Valley (10.7 km, 4-6 hours)

The journey begins with a gentle walk through button grass plains before the challenging climb to Marion's Lookout (1,250m). This steep ascent rewards with spectacular views of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake. The track then follows the shoulder of Cradle Mountain, passes tranquil Kitchen Hut, and crosses the exposed Cradle Plateau before descending to Waterfall Valley Hut.

Highlight: The view from Marion's Lookout is simply breathtaking.

Side Trip: Summit of Cradle Mountain (add 2-3 hours) – a scramble over dolerite columns to one of Tasmania's most iconic peaks.

Day 2: Waterfall Valley to Windermere (7.8 km, 2-3 hours)

A relatively easy day across the moorlands. The track dips through heathland and alpine meadows, passing Lake Will before arriving at Windermere Hut on the shores of Lake Windermere.

Highlight: Lake Will side trip offers a beautiful swimming spot on warm days.

Side Trip: Lake Will (add 1-1.5 hours) – a pristine alpine lake with views back to Barn Bluff.

Day 3: Windermere to Pelion (16.8 km, 5-7 hours)

The longest day of the main track crosses button grass plains and ancient myrtle forests. After lunch at the historic Old Pelion Hut site, the track continues to New Pelion Hut, situated in a picturesque valley beneath the imposing mass of Mt Pelion West.

Highlight: The dramatic change in vegetation from alpine to temperate rainforest.

Side Trip: None recommended for this day due to the distance, but the area around Pelion Hut offers lovely short walks.

Day 4: Pelion to Kia Ora (8.6 km, 3-4 hours)

Today features a climb over Pelion Gap (1,126m), the track's highest point. From here, the panoramic views of Mt Ossa (Tasmania's highest mountain) and Mt Pelion East are outstanding. The track then descends through rainforest to the cozy Kia Ora Hut.

Highlight: The expansive alpine views from Pelion Gap.

Side Trip: Mt Ossa summit (add 4-5 hours) – a challenging climb to Tasmania's highest peak (1,617m). Only attempt in good weather.

Day 5: Kia Ora to Windy Ridge (9.6 km, 3-4 hours)

The track passes through lush rainforest alongside cascading streams before arriving at the impressive D'Alton and Fergusson Falls. Historic Du Cane Hut provides a glimpse into the area's history before the track climbs to Du Cane Gap and then descends to Windy Ridge (Bert Nichols) Hut, the newest and largest hut on the track.

Highlight: The magnificent tiered cascades of D'Alton and Fergusson Falls.

Side Trip: Hartnett Falls (add 1 hour) – another spectacular waterfall just a short detour from the main track.

Day 6: Windy Ridge to Narcissus (9.4 km, 3 hours) + Lake St Clair (17.5 km, 5-6 hours or 30-minute ferry)

The final section of the main track descends gradually through eucalypt forest to Narcissus Hut at the northern end of Lake St Clair. From here, hikers can either take the ferry across the lake to Cynthia Bay (must be booked in advance) or walk the final 17.5 km along the lake's edge.

Highlight: The sense of accomplishment upon completing the track.

Decision Point: Ferry or walk? The lakeside track adds another day but offers peaceful forest walking. The ferry provides a scenic boat trip and saves a day of hiking.

Side Trips and Extensions

For those with extra time and energy, these optional detours enrich the Overland experience:

Major Summit Side Trips

• Cradle Mountain: A challenging scramble over dolerite columns (2-3 hours return from the main track)
• Barn Bluff: Less visited than Cradle but equally spectacular (3-4 hours return from Waterfall Valley)
• Mt Ossa: Tasmania's highest peak offers unparalleled 360° views (4-5 hours return from Pelion Gap)
• Mt Pelion East: A more achievable summit than Ossa with similarly rewarding views (3-4 hours return from Pelion Gap)

Extension Options

• Pine Valley and The Acropolis: A popular detour from Narcissus that adds 2-3 days to explore the magnificent Pine Valley and climb The Acropolis
• Arm River Track: An alternative entry point that joins the Overland Track near New Pelion Hut
• Walls of Jerusalem: Experienced hikers can combine the Overland Track with this adjacent alpine national park for an extended wilderness adventure

Accommodation: Huts and Camping

The Overland Track features six main public huts spaced a day's walk apart:

• Waterfall Valley Hut
• Windermere Hut
• New Pelion Hut (the largest)
• Kia Ora Hut
• Bert Nichols Hut (at Windy Ridge)
• Narcissus Hut

Hut Facilities

Huts provide basic shelter with:

• Sleeping platforms with mattresses (no pillows or bedding)
• Composting toilets
• Rainwater tanks
• Tables and benches
• Heating (except Narcissus Hut)

Huts operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and during peak periods they can fill up. Even if you plan to use the huts, you must carry a tent as backup.

Camping

Designated camping areas are located near each hut. When camping:

• Use the wooden platforms where provided to minimize environmental impact
• Campers can use hut facilities (toilets, water, common areas)
• In severe weather, rangers may allow campers to sleep inside huts if space permits

Wildlife and Flora

The Overland Track traverses diverse ecosystems supporting unique wildlife and plant communities.

Wildlife You Might Encounter

• Wombats: Often seen grazing near huts, especially at Ronny Creek and Pelion
• Pademelons: Small wallabies common in forested areas
• Bennett's Wallabies: Larger than pademelons, often seen at dusk
• Platypus: Can be spotted in streams and lakes, particularly at dawn and dusk
• Echidnas: Look for them foraging in open areas
• Tiger Snakes: Venomous but generally shy, most active on warm days
• Currawongs: Intelligent birds notorious for stealing food if left unattended

Flora Highlights

• Alpine Vegetation: Cushion plants, scoparia, and alpine daisies create carpets of color in summer
• Pandani: The world's tallest heath plant, with distinctive palm-like appearance
• Deciduous Beech (Fagus): Australia's only native deciduous tree, turns brilliant orange and red in autumn
• Myrtle Beech: Ancient rainforest trees with moss-covered trunks
• King Billy Pines: Slow-growing conifers that can live for over 1,000 years
• Sassafras: Aromatic trees with distinctive serrated leaves
• Leatherwood: Produces Tasmania's famous honey, flowers in summer

Environmental Responsibility

The Overland Track passes through a sensitive alpine environment that requires careful protection. Practice these principles of minimal impact hiking:

• Stay on the track: Even in muddy sections, to prevent track widening and damage to fragile vegetation
• Carry out all waste: Pack out everything you pack in, including food scraps
• Use toilets: Where provided, or dig a 15cm hole at least 100m from water when in remote areas
• Respect wildlife: Observe from a distance and never feed animals
• Leave natural and cultural features: Don't remove rocks, plants, or artifacts
• Use fuel stoves only: No campfires are permitted
• Wash away from water sources: Use biodegradable soap at least 50m from streams or lakes

Safety Considerations

The Overland Track's remote alpine environment presents genuine safety challenges:

Weather Hazards

Weather can change rapidly, with conditions deteriorating within minutes:

• Be prepared for snow, even in summer
• High winds are common on exposed sections
• Heavy rain can cause creek crossings to become dangerous
• Hypothermia is a real risk year-round due to wet, windy conditions

Emergency Procedures

• There is no mobile phone coverage on the track
• Personal locator beacons (PLBs) are strongly recommended
• Register your walk details before starting
• In an emergency, stay on the main track where you're more likely to be found
• Huts have logbooks - always sign in and note your intentions

First Aid Essentials

Your first aid kit should include treatments for these common issues:

• Blisters and foot care supplies
• Pain relief medication
• Antihistamines for allergic reactions
• Bandages and wound dressings
• Emergency thermal blanket

Logistics and Transportation

Getting to the Start

The Overland Track begins at Ronny Creek in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park:

• From Launceston: Drive (2 hours) or take a shuttle bus (McDermott's Coaches or Tassielink)
• From Devonport: Drive (1.5 hours) or connect via public transport
• From Hobart: Drive (4 hours) or take a shuttle bus

At Cradle Mountain, private vehicles must be parked at the visitor center, and you'll need to take the shuttle bus to Ronny Creek.

Ending the Track

The track ends at Lake St Clair (Cynthia Bay):

• Lake St Clair Lodge offers accommodation and meals
• Transport options from Lake St Clair include buses to Hobart or Launceston (must be booked in advance)
• Many hikers arrange car relocation services or go with friends who can shuttle vehicles between the start and end points

Booking Requirements

• During peak season (October 1 to May 31), you must book via the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website
• Bookings open six months in advance and popular periods fill quickly
• The track fee (approximately AUD $200 per adult) includes your national park entry
• Ferry service across Lake St Clair must be booked separately