Mount Field National Park

Mount Field National Park, Tasmania’s oldest national park, offers a stunning mix of ancient rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and alpine moorlands. Just a 1.5-hour drive from Hobart, this park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with well-maintained trails leading to iconic sights like Russell Falls and the Tarn Shelf.

Highlights & What to See

• Russell Falls – A tiered, curtain-like waterfall easily reached via a short, wheelchair-accessible boardwalk through towering tree ferns.
• Tall Trees Walk – A short loop through a grove of giant swamp gums, some exceeding 80 metres in height.
• Tarn Shelf Circuit – A spectacular alpine walk past glacial tarns, colourful cushion plants, and views of rugged peaks – best in autumn for the fiery snow gums.
• Lady Barron Falls – A powerful cascade set in lush myrtle beech forest, reached via a moderate 6 km return walk.
• Lake Dobson – A serene alpine lake at the end of the park road, perfect for a picnic or short stroll.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day exploring the lower waterfalls and one of the alpine walks. If you’re short on time, a half-day can cover Russell Falls and the Tall Trees Walk. For serious hikers, an overnight trip allows you to tackle the Mount Field East or Mount Mawson summit tracks.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wineglass Bay – Iconic crescent-shaped beach in Freycinet National Park, about 2 hours north.
• Hobart – Tasmania’s capital, with Salamanca Market and MONA, a 1.5-hour drive south.
• Huon Valley – Scenic apple-growing region with cideries and the Tahune AirWalk, 45 minutes southeast.
• Lake Pedder & Southwest National Park – Wild, remote landscapes for multi-day adventures, 1.5 hours west.

Please check official sources for current details.