Trail summary

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Quick overview: Experience the challenging yet rewarding 7.7km Hartz Peak hike in Hartz Mountains National Park, Australia. This Grade 4 trail takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete and rewards bushwalkers with panoramic views of the South West wilderness, including the prominent Federation Peak. Located 90km south-west of Hobart, this hike requires appropriate attire and navigation skills. Don't miss this chance to witness the end of the Eastern Arthur Range and the formidable Federation Peak.

Length: 7.7km

Duration: 3.5 hrs

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Return

Start: End of Hartz Road

End: End of Hartz Road

Location: Hartz Mountains National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Geeveston

From state capital: 87km

Latitude: -43.217323

Longitude: 146.77074

Hike Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

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Safety advice

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.

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

Hartz Peak Hike (7.7km)

Total distance: 7701 m
Max elevation: 1215 m
Min elevation: 853 m
Total climbing: 404 m
Total descent: -404 m

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Getting there

Hartz Peak Hike (7.7km)

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.

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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.

About the region

Hobart and Surrounds

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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.

Reviews

Hartz Peak Hike (7.7km)

3 Reviews on “Hartz Peak Hike (7.7km)”

Overall rating

James Lukassen

Steph Auston in good weather only ? ??

24/03/2022, 05:12

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe

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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.

Trail summary

Safety advice