Trail Fast Facts
The hike to Federation Peak is a challenging 45km, grade 5 return hike in the Southwest National Park, Tasmania. The hike takes approximately 4-5 days to complete.
Warning
Hikers attempting to summit Federation Peak should be prepared for a physically demanding and potentially dangerous journey. The weather in the area can be unpredictable, and hikers should be prepared for all conditions. The terrain is also challenging, and hikers should be comfortable with scrambling and exposed sections of rock.
Hike Overview
In the heart of Tasmania's Eastern Arthur Range, Federation Peak stands as a remote and formidable sentinel. Its summit, towering 4,180 feet (1,274 meters) above sea level, can be reached via two arduous routes: from Farmhouse Creek to the east or through the Western Arthurs to the west.
While Federation Peak is not the highest peak in Tasmania, its distinctive rocky thumb-like profile makes it one of the most recognizable and sought-after summits in the state. However, its alluring beauty is matched only by its unforgiving nature. The peak is situated in one of the most notoriously wild and weather-beaten regions of Tasmania, and many attempts to reach the summit are thwarted by the unrelenting elements.
The hike to Federation Peak is a challenging and demanding undertaking. Hikers must be prepared for physically demanding and potentially hazardous conditions. The terrain involves significant scrambling and exposed rock sections, where a fall could be perilous. Even before reaching the summit, hikers face an exposed section of climbing that requires careful use of hands and feet.
There are several routes to the summit of Federation Peak. The most popular western approach begins at Scotts Peak, accessible by a regular bus service from Hobart during the summer months. The journey from Scotts Peak to Federation Peak takes approximately 4 to 5 days, and many hikers choose to return via the same route. The eastern approach commences at Farmhouse Creek, a remote trailhead located at the end of a quiet gravel road 50 kilometres from any major roads. Public transport is not available, so hikers must arrange private transport. The return approach from Farmhouse Creek takes 3 to 5 days.
Both approaches offer challenging and rewarding hikes, with the western route being more accessible and the eastern route providing a more remote experience. Regardless of the route chosen, it is crucial to make an honest assessment of your skills, fitness, and experience before attempting the climb. The weather in the area can be highly unpredictable, and the rugged terrain demands a high level of preparation and physical conditioning. Tasmania Police have reported that, since 2004, approximately 20 people have been rescued from Tasmania's south-west, and six individuals, including experienced walkers, have died.
Despite these challenges, Federation Peak offers a truly rewarding hiking experience. The summit provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the top is unmatched. Be prepared for a physically and mentally demanding journey, allowing between 4 and 5 days for the return trip and consider extending your stay if weather conditions are adverse. Fuel stoves are required, as campfires are prohibited.
Expect to encounter deep mud, treacherous cliffs, and eroded sections of track. While some repairs have been made in recent years, the route remains challenging and unforgiving. If you are ready for the challenge, Federation Peak promises an unforgettable and rewarding adventure. But be warned: this is not a hike for the faint of heart or inexperienced.
History
Despite its prominence, Federation Peak remained unnamed for many years. This was likely due to the misconception that it was already known as "The Obelisk," as some maps indicated. In 1901, to commemorate the federation of Australia, the peak was officially given its current name.
Following World War II, a dedicated group of hikers, primarily from Tasmania, embarked on a mission to explore routes to the summit. They pooled their knowledge and shared it with others, culminating in the first successful ascent of the peak by a party from Victoria in 1949. Over time, the tracks were improved, making the peak more accessible. However, the routes to Federation Peak remain challenging, requiring climbers to ascend numerous cliffs without the aid of ladders or other equipment. In many parts of the world, these would not even be considered trails.
Possible Itinerary
The recommended itinerary for the Federation Peak trek spans three to five days. Opting for a more relaxed pace, the suggested five-day plan covers a total distance of 45km round-trip. However, many hikers find a three-day journey, covering a comfortable distance, to be more suitable.
- Day 1: 9.5 km – Farmhouse Creek to South Cracroft River crossing
- Day 2: 6.9 km – South Cracroft River crossing to Cutting Camp
- Day 3: 4.1 km – Cutting Camp to Bechervaise Plateau (and Federation Peak if you plan to attempt the summit)
- Day 4: 9.7 km – Bechervaise Plateau to South Cracroft River crossing
- Day 5: 9.5 km – South Cracroft River crossing to Farmhouse Creek
Walk Notes
The Federation Peak Track, starting at Farmhouse Creek, begins with a straightforward route. Hikers cross a bridge, follow a well-defined trail alongside a tranquil creek, and encounter a shoe-cleaning station. While pink ribbons and orange arrows initially mark the path, this clarity diminishes as the trek progresses. The trail is renowned for its rugged and remote nature, featuring muddy, overgrown sections, numerous fallen trees, and inconsistent markings.
The path heads westward, gradually ascending along Farmhouse Creek. Around the 5-kilometre mark, an unmarked junction leads southward to Lake Sydney and Mount Bobs. For those with the time and preparation, a detour to Mount Bobs—approximately 13.6 kilometres return—can be rewarding. However, trails south of this junction are largely unmarked and undefined.
Continuing on the Federation Peak trail, hikers reach South Picton Saddle, where an unmarked junction leads towards Judds Cavern, an Aboriginal site where access is discouraged. Proceeding towards Federation Peak, the trail descends southwest into a buttongrass plain, offering views of Federation Peak, weather permitting.
The trail crosses the South Cracroft River, where a suitable campsite is located, and continues westward through muddy buttongrass plains. It then ascends gradually, crossing a ridge before descending to follow the Cracroft River. Navigational challenges are prevalent, and hikers should remain vigilant to avoid disorientation, as there have been instances of hikers inadvertently retracing their steps.
Several suitable campsites are found along this section, with Cutting Camp serving as a good basecamp is you are looking to explore around Federation peak the following day and don't want to carry your overnight packs up Moss Ridge. The subsequent stage involves a slow and steep climb up Moss Ridge to Bechervaise Plateau, where water and camping platforms are also available.
The ascent of Moss Ridge is steep and obstructed by fallen trees, making progress challenging as hikers may need to climb over these obstacles. Midway up, views of Federation Peak emerge, and the trail becomes somewhat less steep, though sections requiring hand climbing remain.
From Bechervaise Plateau, situated above the treeline, the trail ascends westward towards Federation Peak, approaching the summit from the south. The climb to Federation Peak is physically demanding and potentially hazardous. Hikers should be prepared for unpredictable weather and challenging terrain, including scrambling and exposed rock sections.
Track Grade
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
Tips
- Heavy Rainfall: The Cracroft River and South Cracroft River can flood during heavy rain, making the trail more difficult as the track intersects the South Cracroft and runs parallel to both rivers for much of the route.
- Fire Restrictions: Open fires are strictly prohibited along the Federation Peak Track.
- Weather: Tasmania is known for its erratic and rapidly changing weather. Exercise caution and make informed decisions throughout your journey.
- Facilities: There are no huts or designated toilet facilities along the Federation Peak Track.
- Vegetation Protection: Phytophthora cinnamomi poses a threat to native vegetation. Clean your shoes, gaiters, and trowel before starting the hike. A shoe cleaning station is available at the track's start.
- Ropes: Bringing ropes for climbing and pack hauling is optional. It is not a requirement for this trail, but you may bring them if you find them useful.
- Campsites: Named campsites along the track include Crest Camp, Forest Camp, Paperbark Camp, and Cutting Camp. While there are no signs or markers, these sites are identifiable by their flat, open spaces. Additional camping spots are available along the route.
- Bechervaise Plateau: Wooden platforms for tent pitching are provided on Bechervaise Plateau, just below Federation Peak. A water source was also accessible during my visit.
Map and GPX file
Safety Note: The GPX file terminates at Bechervaise Plateau and does not provide a route to the summit of Federation Peak.
Max elevation: 919 m
Min elevation: 167 m
Total climbing: 1625 m
Total descent: -1625 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
The starting point for the Federation Peak trail, found at Farmhouse Creek, sits approximately 109 kilometers southwest of Hobart. Given the predominantly unpaved road, the journey by car, the only viable means of transport, is estimated to take between two to three hours. Public transportation to Farmhouse Creek isn't available, necessitating the rental of a car or the kindness of a benefactor for a drop-off if one intends to embark on the hike from there. While hitchhiking is a theoretical option, it's ill-advised, as it's likely you could be stranded for an extended period, waiting for a ride.
Several businesses in Hobart and throughout Tasmania provide transportation services to and from various trailheads. If you're willing to spend a bit more money for a convenient ride, feel free to take advantage of these services (though it might be a pricey option).
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
About the region
Tasmania’s largest expanse of wilderness is in Southwest National Park – a remote and rugged landscape in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Home to majestic Huon pine, sassafras, celery top and myrtle, the region is awash with the distinctive fragrances of the Tasmanian forest.
The Gordon River Road is a narrow ribbon through the largely untracked region of forests, imposing mountain ranges and buttongrass plains, providing access to the vast expanses of Lake Pedder and Lake Go​rdon.
In Southwest Nationa​l Park, you’ll find one of Tasmania’s ​most challenging wilderness walks, the multi-day South Coast Track. There are also endless shorter walks to take you up and over mountains and out to the coast. For a real ‘ends-of-the-Earth’ experience, travel to Australia’s southernmost point accessible by road, Cockle Creek, where a day walk to South Cape Bay allows walkers to immerse themselves in the raw power of this wilderness landscape.
Southwest National Park is vast, wild and spectacular. Rocky coastline, windswept beaches, dramatic mountain ranges, deep harbours and extensive buttongrass plains are home to unique plant and animal species.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
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.