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Overland Track Tasmania Hike (65km)

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Tasmania

65km

6 days

Grade 4

One Way

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Quick overview: Experience Australia's top-notch alpine adventure, the Overland Track, a 65km, Grade 4 trek in the heart of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. This six-day journey takes you through alpine meadows, past stunning peaks, and around untouched lakes, encapsulating the raw beauty of Tasmania's wilderness. From starting at Ronny Creek near Cradle Mountain to the finish at Lake St Clair, Australia's deepest lake, this iconic bushwalk offers optional side trips to breathtaking waterfalls and mountain summits. Be well-prepared for this challenging but transformative experience.
Overland track tasmania hike

Hike length

65km

Average duration

6 days

Trail Difficulty

Grade 4 (Hard)

Hike Type

One Way

Max elevation: 1596m
Min elevation: 738m
Total Ascent: 5218m

Start: Ronny Creek
End: Lake St Clair Visitors Centre
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Tasmania
Nearby town: Cradle Mountain Village
From state capital: 326km
Latitude: -41.63595298211781
Longitude: 145.94912589565143
8 Reviews

8,495 views

Hike Overview
Planning
Safety
Getting there
Discover more
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Trail detail

The Overland Track is a remote area, and there are a number of risks associated with hiking in the wilderness. These risks include getting lost, hypothermia, and wildlife encounters. It's important to be aware of these risks before you start your hike, and to take steps to mitigate them.

Hike summary

The Overland Track is Australia's premier alpine walk. It's a 65 km, six-day trek through the heart of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, part of the magnificent Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The Overland Track takes hikers through alpine meadows, past towering peaks, and alongside pristine lakes, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness. The stunning scenery and the physical challenge of the Overland Track have assured it a national and international reputation as one of the great wilderness bushwalks.

The walk starts at Ronny Creek in Cradle Valley, beside the renowned Cradle Mountain. Over the next six days, walkers journey through a landscape of spectacular glacially-carved valleys, ancient rainforests, fragrant eucalypt forest, golden buttongrass moorlands and beautiful alpine meadows. Extra bonuses include a variety of side-trips to breathtaking waterfalls and mountain summits, including Mount Ossa (1617 m) - Tasmania's highest peak. To top it off, the walk concludes at Australia's deepest lake - Lake St Clair. Most walkers finish their walk at Narcissus Hut at the head of Lake St Clair. Here they board a small privately run ferry which takes them to the Lake St Clair Visitor Centre at Cynthia Bay. Some walkers, however, choose to walk the length of the lake through the rainforest, which extends the walk a further 17.5 km and requires another day. While six days is the average time taken to walk the track, you can create your own pace, depending on how many rest days or side-trips you wish to enjoy.

In addition to the main track, there are a number of side trips that can be taken, adding to the overall length and difficulty of the hike. These side trips offer the opportunity to explore hidden corners of the park and gain even more spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Side trips from the Overland Track

  • Cradle Mountain: No trip to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is complete without a visit to Cradle Mountain itself. The summit of Cradle Mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, and the hike to the top is a challenging but rewarding experience.
  • Barn Bluff: Barn Bluff is one of the most recognizable mountains in Tasmania, and the side trip to the summit is a popular choice for hikers. The hike is challenging, but the views from the top are simply breathtaking.
  • Lake Will: Lake Will is a beautiful alpine lake located just a short side trip from the Overland Track. The lake is surrounded by mountains, and the reflections in the water are simply stunning.
  • Old Pelion Hut: The Old Pelion Hut is a historic hut that was once used by cattlemen. The hut is in a beautiful setting, and the side trip to the hut is a great way to learn about the history of the area.
  • Mount Oakleigh: Mount Oakleigh is the highest mountain in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The hike to the summit is challenging, but the views from the top are truly rewarding.
  • Mount Ossa: Mount Ossa is the highest mountain in Tasmania. The hike to the summit is a challenging multi-day trek, but the views from the top are simply incredible.
  • Mount Pelion East: Mount Pelion East is a challenging side trip that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hike is not for the faint of heart, but the rewards are immense.
  • D'Alton and Fergusson Falls: D'Alton and Fergusson Falls are two beautiful waterfalls that are located a short side trip from the Overland Track. The falls are a great place to cool off on a hot day, and the hike to the falls is a pleasant walk through the forest.
  • Hartnett Falls: Hartnett Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is located a short side trip from the Overland Track. The falls are a great place to cool off on a hot day, and the hike to the falls is a pleasant walk through the forest.
  • Pine Valley (The Acropolis and the Labyrinth): Pine Valley is a beautiful area that is located a short side trip from the Overland Track. The area is home to a number of interesting rock formations, including The Acropolis and The Labyrinth.

Walking the Overland Track is a highly rewarding, life-changing experience. Almost half of the track is above 1,000 metres in elevation on exposed plateaus in a remote area. You need to be well-prepared. The Overland Track is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness. With its stunning scenery and diverse range of side trips, the Overland Track is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who hike it.

Planning note: Walkers preparing for the full traverse may find our Complete Guide to the Overland Track helpful, with detailed information on bookings, seasonal conditions, daily distances, and safety considerations.

Additional Information:

Crossing Lake St Clair

You can either walk lakeside from Narcissus Hut to the Lake St Clair Visitor Centre (add an extra day), or you can take the small privately-run ferry from Narcissus. You must book and pay for your ferry crossing in advance, by phoning (03) 6289 1137. When you reach Narcissus Hut, confirm your ferry booking with the ferry company by using the two-way radio.

Walking a short section of the Overland Track

For walkers intending to walk only part of the Overland Track during the booking season (1 October-31 May inclusive), please read our Overland Track Usage Guidelines. These guidelines ensure that the quality of the Overland Track experience is maintained for all users.

Warning

If you plan to walk between 1 June to 30 September PWS strongly recommends that all walkers at this time of the year are experienced and have a high degree of wilderness navigation skills for winter walking.

Be prepared

Weather conditions in Tasmania can change quickly and frequently, especially in mountain areas. Snow, rain, wind and sun are all possible at any time of the year, and bushfires can occur between October and March. Ensure you have suitable clothing, equipment, food and water to cope with all conditions. You must carry a tent or effective form of emergency shelter in case the huts are full or injury or weather prevents you from reaching a hut before nightfall. Ensure you have a comprehensive first aid kit. It's a good idea for somebody in your walking group to have a current first aid certificate. Before you begin your walk, you can check the Overland Track forecast on the Tasmanian Bureau of Meteorology website.

Avoid walking alone

It is better to arrange a walking group of three or more. Consider taking a personal locator beacon (PLB) for extra security. PLBs can be hired (subject to availability) from PWS at Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair and from Service Tasmania in Hobart.

Let a reliable person know your plans before you go
Be sure to advise this person of your safe return. Make sure that they know what to do if you fail to return as planned (e.g. advise Tasmania Police).

Record your trip intentions in the log books

These are located at the start and end of the track, and at each hut. If you are reported overdue or missing, Parks staff will check your movements in the log books. Remember to sign out at the end of your walk. Log book records also provide useful information to guide management of the track. If there is a bushfire and you need to be relocated, the log book may often be the only indicator to staff that you are on the track.

Be prepared to turn back

If the weather deteriorates or the walk is more difficult than expected, be prepared to turn back or change your plans. Pushing on beyond your limits may result in injury or even death. Be sure that you can recognise signs of hypothermia or heat stress and know how to respond. Check the weather forecast before you depart. Depending on the conditions, you may need to change or adapt your itinerary.

Weather forecasts for the Overland Track can be obtained from the Bureau of Meteorology. Please note all bush walker weather warnings and adjust your plans. accordingly.

The Overland Track booking season is from 1 October and 31 May (inclusive)

Between 1 June and 30 September you do not need to book your walk departure date, or pay the Overland Track fee. You only need a National Parks Pass.

Plan to walk safely

Purchase and study the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair map and notes (1:100 000 TASMAP) before you depart. Arrive fit and walk within your capabilities.

The GPX file shown below (105km) is from my hike along the Overland Track. It includes a section into Pine Valley which I highly recommend. You can read more about this 8 day adventure here.

Track difficulty

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

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Planning essentials

Practical Information:
  • Plan and prepare: The Overland Track is a challenging hike, so it's important to plan and prepare properly. This includes getting fit, packing the right gear, and researching the conditions.
  • Be prepared for all weather conditions: The weather in Tasmania can be unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared for all conditions. This means packing warm clothing, even in the summer, as well as rain gear and sturdy footwear.
  • Pack light: The lighter your pack, the easier the hike will be. Try to pack only the essentials, and leave any non-essential items at home.
  • Take your time: The Overland Track is a journey, not a race. Take your time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife, and don't be afraid to take rest days when you need them.
  • Leave no trace: The Overland Track is a fragile environment, so it's important to leave no trace of your passing. This means packing out all of your trash, and following the Leave No Trace principles.
  • Enjoy the experience: The Overland Track is a truly unique experience. Take the time to appreciate the beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Trail Features:
  • Timber Boardwalk
  • Alpine Region
  • Rainforest
  • Scenic Viewpoints
  • Alpine Huts
  • Exposed Ledges
  • Rock Scrambling
  • Steep Terrain
  • River Crossings
  • Overnight Campsites

Map and GPX file

Overland Track Tasmania Hike (65km)

Total distance: 105547 m
Max elevation: 1596 m
Min elevation: 738 m
Total climbing: 5218 m
Total descent: -5422 m
Login to Download GPX

GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.

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Safety and preparation

Planning this hike?

Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Interactive Safety Scenarios and Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.

Let someone know

Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take. Register your plans here →

Free checklists

Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.

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Getting there

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

The Overland Track is in Tasmania's Wilderness World Heritage Area. During the booking season (1 October to 31 May) the Overland Track is walked from north to south, starting at Cradle Mountain and finishing at Lake St Clair. Outside the booking season, the track can be walked in either direction.

By bus: Due to public transport regulations, PWS cannot provide a direct service between Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair, however there are a number of bus companies that can provide transport. For bus companies, see How to Get there and other information.

By car: Private cars can be parked long-term (while you walk the track) at both Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair visitor centres. Unless a car shuffle has been arranged, many walkers find it most convenient to leave their car at Lake St Clair and catch a bus back to Cradle Mountain to start their walk. See How to Get there and other information for car access and bus transport options. If you are being dropped off at Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre by friends or family, after checking in, they can drive you the 7km to the track start point at Ronny Creek (if the park is not too busy) - alternatively, you can all catch the Cradle Shuttle Bus (departs regularly) from the visitor centre to the track start at Ronny Creek.

Accommodation before / after your walk

Many walkers find it more relaxing to spend the night before their departure on the track at an accommodation venue in Cradle Mountain. This gives plenty of time to check in at the visitor centre, catch the Cradle Shuttle Bus (departs regularly) from the visitor centre to the track start at Ronny Creek 7km away, and walk the 4 to 6 hours to the first hut at Waterfall Valley. See How to Get there and other information for details on accommodation options both at Cradle Mountain and at the end of your walk at Lake St Clair.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

Access Conditions:
  • 2WD Access
  • Public Transport
  • Gravel Road
  • Winding Road
  • Speed Bumps
  • Entry Fee
  • Accessible Toilet
  • Public Toilets
  • Drinking Water

Accommodation nearby

Find hotels, cabins, and campgrounds near the trailhead. Click the button below to open an interactive map automatically centred on this hike's location — no searching required.

Find Accommodation

Or browse accommodation in nearby towns: Burnie, Cradle Mountain, Deloraine, Derwent Bridge, Devonport, Dove Lake, Lake St Clair, Launceston, Moina, Mole Creek, Queenstown, Rosebery, Sheffield, Strahan, Tullah, Waratah

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About the region

Exploring Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, located in the heart of Tasmania, is an extraordinary destination within the Tasmanian World Heritage Area. Just over two hours’ drive (150 km) from Launceston and around four hours (250 km) from Hobart, this park is celebrated for its striking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundance of wildlife. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply enjoy the serenity of nature, this park has something to offer.

The park is a showcase of nature's diversity, from glacial lakes and alpine moorlands to dense rainforests and dramatic peaks. Its seasonal transformations are equally captivating. Winter blankets the terrain with snow, while autumn brings vibrant hues as the deciduous fagus turns shades of yellow, orange, and red. In spring, the bushland comes alive with joeys and echidnas, while summer invites visitors to wade into crystal-clear lakes framed by blooming wildflowers.

Cradle Mountain itself is an icon of the park, offering a network of walking tracks for all levels. Easy strolls take you through lush forests and past tranquil streams, while more challenging hikes, such as the renowned Overland Track, traverse rugged terrain. Spanning 80 kilometres and typically completed in 5-6 days, the Overland Track is a must for experienced bushwalkers, offering a journey through breathtaking alpine scenery. For those who prefer shorter walks, the park’s well-maintained trails make exploring its wonders accessible to everyone.

Lake St Clair, situated at the southern end of the park, is equally enchanting. Known as leeawuleena—‘sleeping water’—by the Aboriginal people, the lake exudes tranquillity, particularly on calm days when its glassy surface reflects the surrounding landscape. Lake St Clair is the endpoint of the Overland Track, making it a rewarding finish line for hikers who’ve traversed the park’s diverse terrain.

Beyond the iconic multi-day hike, Lake St Clair offers an array of bushwalks and trails. Short tracks wind through ancient rainforests, while longer paths lead to stunning mountain summits and secluded alpine lakes. Each trail promises an immersive experience, with the chance to encounter wildlife like wombats, platypus, Tasmanian devils, and the distinctive black currawong along the way.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park combines natural beauty, adventure, and opportunities for reflection, ensuring every visit is unforgettable. Whether you're seeking an adventurous hike, a casual walk, or a family-friendly outing, this park provides it all.

Want to find the best trails in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.

Photo gallery

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Acknowledgement of Country

Overland track tasmania hike (65km) trail hiking australia

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia
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