Trail Fast Facts
Hartz Peak is a 7.7km, grade 4 hike in the Hartz Mountains National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 3.5 hrs to complete.
Warning
Walkers are warned that blizzard weather conditions can occur with little warning, in any month.
Hike Overview
In fine weather, this relatively accessible peak in the Hartz Mountains National Park gives views of the South West wilderness including Federation Peak. All walkers, must be equipped with suitable clothing and all walking parties require navigation skills.
Hartz Peak is one of the best locations to view the stunning Eastern Arthur Range and the jewel in the crown, Federation Peak. Fedder, is the most striking and terrifying mountain in Australia that marks the end of the Eastern Arthur Range, in the Southwest National Park. It is well known for its distinctive sharp spire like shape. The peak, approximately 90 kilometres south-west from Hobart, was named after the Federation of Australia.
Highlights
Hartz Mountains National Park ranges from 160 metres at the Picton River to 1254 metres above sea level at Hartz Peak.
The great backbone of rock extending almost the entire length of the park is dolerite. This igneous rock which is very resistant to weathering, intruded into the earth's outer crust around 165 million years ago during the break-up of Gondwana. This area has also been modified over time by several ice ages. The cirques, horn peaks, aretes and glacial troughs were all formed during glacial activity on the Hartz Range.
Several frog species can be heard calling during the day. This includes the Moss Froglet which was previously unknown until it was discovered at Hartz Mountains in 1992.
Track Grade
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.
Tips
- Park entry fees apply.
- Toilet, tank water, picnic shelter and barbecue 10.5km before track start. No camping.
- It is a 400m climb from the car park to reach the summit of Hartz Peak. The summit is at 1254m.
- Supervise children , tracks subject to severe weather conditions all year round, weather may change quickly, tracks are difficult to navigate when covered in snow and may be impassable.
- No pets, firearms or bicycles.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1215 m
Min elevation: 853 m
Total climbing: 404 m
Total descent: -404 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Getting there
From Geeveston take road C632 for 21km to the national park. Continue 13km until the road ends. Road is unsealed for last 21km and can be covered with snow. Do not drive in snow unless your vehicle is fitted with chains as, should you become stuck, death from hypothermia could result. No rangers are based in this park.
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.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
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
Suggest an edit
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
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.
3 Reviews on “Hartz Peak Hike (7.7km)”
Steph Auston in good weather only ? ??