Mount Field National Park

Mount Field National Park, one of Tasmania's oldest national parks, is a breathtaking showcase of the island's wild beauty—from ancient towering forests and cascading waterfalls to alpine moorlands. Just over an hour's drive from Hobart, it's an essential stop for anyone exploring Tasmania's southeast, offering accessible walks that pack a punch of scenic drama.

Highlights & What to See

• Russell Falls – A postcard-perfect three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush fern glades, easily reached via a short, wheelchair-friendly boardwalk. It's arguably Tasmania's most famous waterfall.
• Tall Trees Walk – A gentle loop through a forest of towering swamp gums, some of the tallest flowering trees on Earth, creating a cathedral-like canopy overhead.
• Horseshoe Falls & Lady Barron Falls – Continue beyond Russell Falls along the banks of the Tyenna River to these two equally impressive waterfalls, each with its own character.
• Mount Field East Summit – For hikers with a few hours, this track climbs through alpine vegetation to panoramic views over the park and distant Lake Gordon.
• Tarn Shelf Circuit – A stunning alpine walk past mirror-like glacial tarns, especially spectacular during the autumn colour season (March-April) when the deciduous beech turns fiery gold.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend half a day exploring the lower waterfalls and short walks, which is ample to see Russell Falls and the Tall Trees. For a fuller experience, including a summit hike or the Tarn Shelf Circuit, plan for a full day. If you're short on time, the two-hour Russell Falls–Horseshoe Falls loop is the perfect taster.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mount Field National Park – Combine with a visit to the nearby Tyenna Valley for trout fishing or a stop at the historic town of New Norfolk.
• Lake St Clair – An hour's drive north, Australia's deepest lake offers kayaking, walks, and the southern terminus of the Overland Track.
• Hobart – The state capital is just 70 km away, with its vibrant food scene, MONA museum, and Mount Wellington backdrop.
• Freycinet National Park – About 2.5 hours northeast, famous for Wineglass Bay and granite peaks; worth a multi-day detour.
• Huon Valley – South of Hobart, this lush region is known for apple orchards, the Tahune Airwalk, and the charming town of Cygnet.

Please check official sources for current details.