Mount Field National Park

Mount Field National Park is one of Tasmania’s oldest and most diverse national parks, offering a dramatic landscape of towering waterfalls, ancient forests, and alpine moorlands. Just over an hour’s drive from Hobart, this park is a must for nature lovers seeking a classic Tasmanian wilderness experience without the crowds of more famous parks.

Highlights & What to See

• Russell Falls – A three-tiered, 58-metre waterfall that is arguably Tasmania’s most beautiful and easily accessible cascade. The short walk through ferny rainforest is a delight.
• Horseshoe Falls & Lady Barron Falls – Continue along the well-maintained track from Russell Falls to see these two additional waterfalls, each with its own character.
• Tall Trees Walk – A short loop through towering swamp gums (some over 80 metres tall) and ancient myrtle beech trees, showcasing the park’s magnificent old-growth forest.
• Lake Dobson & Mount Field West – Drive to the alpine plateau for stunning views, tarns, and hiking trails, including the challenging summit of Mount Field West for experienced bushwalkers.
• Winter Snowplay – In the colder months, the Lake Dobson area becomes a popular spot for snow play, tobogganing, and cross-country skiing – a rare treat in Australia.

Suggested Time to Spend

A full day is ideal to experience the park’s diverse zones: start with the easy waterfall walks (1–2 hours), then drive up to Lake Dobson for alpine scenery and a short hike (2–3 hours). If you’re short on time, focus on Russell Falls and the Tall Trees Walk, which can be done in half a day. For keen hikers, an overnight visit allows you to tackle longer trails like the Mount Field West summit.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cataract Gorge – A stunning natural gorge with walking trails, a chairlift, and swimming in Launceston, perfect for a day trip en route to or from Mount Field.
• Hobart – Tasmania’s capital, just over an hour south, offers markets, museums, and Mount Wellington for panoramic views.
• Huon Valley – Known for apple orchards, cideries, and the Huon River, ideal for a scenic drive and foodie stops.
• Mount Wellington – A towering peak near Hobart with spectacular views and hiking trails, complementing the alpine experience at Mount Field.

Please check official sources for current details.