Trekking Through Tasmania's Ancient Wilderness

Separated from mainland Australia for over 10,000 years, Tasmania has developed into a wonderland of unique wilderness areas, diverse ecosystems, and extraordinary biodiversity. With over 40% of the island protected in national parks and reserves, it's a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking immersion in pristine natural environments.

Tasmania: An Island of Natural Treasures

Tasmania may be Australia's smallest state, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in natural beauty. The island's isolation has preserved ecosystems that have disappeared elsewhere, creating a living museum of ancient plant species, unique wildlife, and dramatic landscapes shaped by millennia of geological processes.

The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area covers approximately 1.6 million hectares—about 20% of the entire island—and contains some of the last temperate rainforests in the Southern Hemisphere. From rugged mountain ranges and deep river gorges to pristine coastal areas and ancient forests, Tasmania offers an astonishing variety of environments to explore on foot.

Iconic Hiking Trails

Tasmania boasts some of Australia's most celebrated hiking trails, ranging from easy day walks to challenging multi-day treks. Here are some of the most iconic routes:

Overland Track

Perhaps Tasmania's most famous hike, the Overland Track stretches 65 kilometers through the heart of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This six-day journey takes hikers through a spectacular landscape of ancient rainforests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and glacial lakes.

The track requires advanced booking during the peak season (October to May) and good preparation, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Hikers stay in basic huts along the route or camp at designated sites. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking scenery, including views of Tasmania's highest peak, Mount Ossa (1,617 meters), which ambitious hikers can summit as a side trip.

Three Capes Track

This 48-kilometer track along Tasmania's dramatic southeast coast offers a more accessible but equally spectacular multi-day hiking experience. Purpose-built to showcase the towering sea cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula, the track features architect-designed huts with sleeping accommodations and cooking facilities.

The four-day journey begins with a boat ride from Port Arthur and takes hikers across the peninsula, offering breathtaking views from Cape Pillar, Cape Hauy, and Cape Raoul. With its carefully maintained track and comfortable huts, it's perfect for hikers seeking a balance of adventure and comfort.

Walls of Jerusalem Circuit

Located in the remote Central Highlands, this alpine circuit takes hikers through a landscape of ancient pencil pine forests, glacial tarns, and dolerite peaks. The area's biblical place names (like Damascus Gate, Solomon's Throne, and King David's Peak) reflect the awe it inspired in early explorers.

Unlike the Overland Track, the Walls of Jerusalem has no huts, requiring hikers to be self-sufficient with camping equipment. The remoteness and challenging terrain make this a trek for experienced hikers, but the solitude and pristine wilderness are incomparable rewards.

Bay of Fires Lodge Walk

For those who prefer coastal scenery, the Bay of Fires Lodge Walk combines beach walking with comfortable accommodation. This guided four-day experience takes hikers along the pristine northeast coast, famous for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and distinctive orange-tinged granite boulders.

The walk includes stays at the award-winning Bay of Fires Lodge, where hikers can enjoy gourmet meals, hot showers, and comfortable beds—a luxurious counterpoint to days spent exploring this remarkable coastal ecosystem.

Wildlife Encounters

One of the highlights of hiking in Tasmania is the opportunity to observe unique wildlife in their natural habitat. The island is home to numerous endemic species and provides sanctuary for animals that have become rare or extinct on the mainland.

Marsupials

Tasmania is a stronghold for marsupials, including the iconic Tasmanian devil, found nowhere else in the wild. While these nocturnal creatures are elusive, lucky hikers might spot one at dawn or dusk. More commonly seen are wallabies, particularly the endemic Bennetts wallaby and the smaller pademelon, often spotted grazing near walking tracks at dusk.

The island is also home to wombats, particularly in highland areas like Cradle Mountain, where these barrel-shaped marsupials can often be seen grazing in open areas during the day.

Birds

Tasmania hosts 12 bird species found nowhere else in the world, including the endangered Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle and the tiny Tasmanian thornbill. The colorful green rosella is a common sight in forested areas, while the bold black currawong is known for its distinctive call and fearless approach to hikers (never feed them, though!).

Coastal walks offer chances to spot seabirds like the shy albatross, which nests on offshore islands, and the spectacular sea eagles that patrol the coastline.

Monotremes

Tasmania is one of the few places where you might spot both of the world's monotreme (egg-laying mammal) species. The platypus inhabits many Tasmanian rivers and lakes, best observed at dawn or dusk when they're most active. The echidna is more commonly seen, often foraging along trail edges during the day.

Seasonal Considerations

Tasmania's weather is notoriously changeable, and conditions vary significantly by season:

Summer (December-February)

The most popular hiking season offers the longest daylight hours and generally milder temperatures, although alpine areas can still experience sudden weather changes. Advance bookings are essential for popular tracks, and coastal areas can be crowded.

Autumn (March-May)

A wonderful time for hiking, with stable weather patterns, fewer crowds, and spectacular displays of fagus (deciduous beech) turning gold in April-May, particularly in the Cradle Mountain area.

Winter (June-August)

Alpine areas often receive snow, creating beautiful scenery but requiring additional skills and equipment. Some high-elevation tracks may be closed or require specialized gear. Coastal walks can be enjoyably mild, albeit with shorter daylight hours.

Spring (September-November)

The season of wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, though weather can be unpredictable with lingering snow in alpine areas and strong winds. A less crowded time to experience the wilderness coming to life.

Responsible Hiking in Tasmania

Tasmania's wilderness areas are precious and vulnerable. As visitors, we have a responsibility to minimize our impact:

Leave No Trace

Pack out all waste, including food scraps. Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and damage to sensitive vegetation. Use established campsites and toilet facilities where available.

Biosecurity

Clean your boots and gear before and after hikes to prevent spreading plant diseases, particularly Phytophthora root rot, which threatens Tasmania's alpine plants. Follow all boot-cleaning station instructions at trailheads.

Wildlife Ethics

Never feed wildlife, which can lead to dependency and health problems. Observe animals from a distance, and be especially careful during dawn and dusk when many species are most active.

Fire Safety

Check fire restrictions before your hike—many areas ban open fires entirely. Use fuel stoves for cooking and follow all regulations strictly, as Tasmania's wilderness is vulnerable to bushfires.

Essential Gear for Tasmanian Hiking

Tasmania's changeable weather demands proper preparation:

• Quality waterproof jacket and pants
• Layered clothing (including warm layers even in summer)
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Navigation tools (map, compass, and/or GPS)
• First aid kit
• Personal locator beacon for remote hikes
• Water filtration system
• Sun protection (the UV index can be extreme even on cool days)

Beyond the Main Tracks: Hidden Gems

While Tasmania's iconic tracks deserve their fame, the island offers countless lesser-known hikes for those seeking solitude or unique experiences:

Mount Field National Park

Just a 90-minute drive from Hobart, this accessible park offers everything from short waterfall walks to challenging alpine treks. The Tarn Shelf Circuit provides spectacular mountain scenery without the crowds of more famous destinations.

Freycinet Peninsula Circuit

While Wineglass Bay gets all the attention, the full Freycinet Peninsula Circuit offers a more immersive three-day experience of this beautiful coastal national park, with numerous secluded beaches and dramatic granite formations.

Western Arthurs Traverse

For experienced wilderness hikers seeking a challenge, this remote and demanding route in the Southwest Wilderness offers some of Tasmania's most spectacular alpine scenery, though it requires advanced navigation and wilderness skills.

Maria Island

This island national park offers a unique combination of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and convict history. The lack of cars and limited accommodation create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for walking and wildlife observation.

Tasmania's wilderness offers something for every hiker, from gentle day walks to challenging wilderness expeditions. With proper preparation and a respectful approach to the environment, trekking through this island's ancient landscapes provides not just adventure but a profound connection to one of the world's last great temperate wilderness areas.