Overland Track

Stretching 65 km through the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the Overland Track is Australia’s premier alpine walk. This six-day trek from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair weaves through ancient rainforests, past glacial-carved lakes, and across exposed plateaus with epic mountain views. It’s a rite of passage for bushwalkers, but even day-trippers can sample its magic on shorter sections.

Highlights & What to See

• Cradle Mountain – The iconic jagged peak is your starting point; the Dove Lake circuit offers a stunning taster if you’re short on time.
• Waterfall Valley – A misty amphitheatre of cascades and button grass plains, perfect for a first-night camp.
• Pelion Plains & Mount Ossa – Tasmania’s highest peak (1,617 m) is a challenging side-trip with 360° views over the wilderness.
• Kia Ora Hut & Frog Flat – Spot wombats and wallabies around historic huts, with the jagged dolerite peaks of the Du Cane Range as a backdrop.
• Lake St Clair – Australia’s deepest freshwater lake; end your trek with a ferry ride or a walk along the lakeshore.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers take 6 days / 5 nights to complete the full track, walking 9–15 km per day with ample time for side trips. If you’re pressed for time, a 3-day option starts at Cradle Mountain and finishes at the Pelion Hut area, offering a solid wilderness experience. Day visitors can explore the first few hours from either end, especially the Dove Lake loop (2 hours) or the Lake St Clair foreshore walk (1 hour). Bookings for the full track are essential between October and May.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park – Extend your trip with the Enchanted Walk, Crater Lake circuit, or a visit to the Waldheim Chalet.
• Hobart – Tasmania’s capital (2.5 hours from Launceston) offers MONA, Salamanca Market, and excellent food and wine.
• Launceston – Gateway to the Tamar Valley wine region and the Cataract Gorge, just a 1.5-hour drive from Cradle Mountain.
• Bruny Island – A day trip from Hobart for gourmet produce, white-sand beaches, and the Neck lookout.
• Freycinet National Park – Home to Wineglass Bay and granite peaks, about 2.5 hours from Hobart.

Please check official sources for current details.