Trail Fast Facts

Pine Valley is a 52km, grade 4 hike in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 2-4 to complete depending on access.

Length: 52km

Duration: 2-4 days

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Return

Start: Lake St Clair Visitors Centre

End: Lake St Clair Visitors Centre

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Derwent Bridge

From state capital: 180km

Latitude: -42.115988338842826

Longitude: 146.17399960756305

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

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Reviews

Hike Overview

The Pine Valley hike is a 52-kilometre, Grade 4 walk located within Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park in Tasmania. Typically, the hike takes between two to four days to complete, depending on the chosen access route and individual pace.

To begin, the hike can be accessed from the Lake St Clair Visitor Centre. From there, hikers can choose to walk 17 kilometres along the shore of Lake St Clair to Narcissus Hut, or opt for the ferry from Cynthia Bay to Narcissus Hut (advance bookings required). The ferry provides a quicker option, though many choose to walk this section, as it offers some scenic water views and shaded resting spots. The ferry operates three times a day during the summer months, with fewer services in winter. For the return journey, hikers must confirm their booking via radio.

From Narcissus Hut, the trail to Pine Valley is part of the Overland Track and takes approximately three hours to complete. The path meanders through dry eucalypt forests before reaching the Pine Valley turnoff. Pine Valley Hut, which accommodates up to 16 people, provides basic amenities such as two large bunk beds, a rainwater tank, and a long-drop toilet. If the hut is fully booked, hikers can camp on one of the wooden platforms near the hut.

Pine Valley serves as an excellent base for exploring The Acropolis and The Labyrinth Plateau. It can be done as an overnight trip without retracing steps from the Overland Track. For those seeking a longer stay the explore the nearby , a three-night visit provides ample time to explore these areas and enjoy the surrounding wilderness.

Map and GPX file

Pine Valley Hike (52km)

Total distance: 52194 m
Max elevation: 866 m
Min elevation: 742 m
Total climbing: 1869 m
Total descent: -1869 m

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Getting there

Pine Valley Hike (52km)

Lake St Clair is conveniently located about 2.5 hours from both Hobart and Launceston. From Hobart, take the A10 Lyell Highway, and from Launceston, follow the B11 Marlborough Highway before joining the A10. At Derwent Bridge, turn right onto Lake St Clair Road (C193) and continue to the visitor centre at Cynthia Bay, which serves as the starting point for many walks, including the Shadow Lake Circuit.

If travelling in the evening, please exercise extra caution. Tasmania's reserves are home to abundant native wildlife, and animals are often active near roads at night. Slow down, stay alert, and help protect the unique fauna of the area.

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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

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.

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Looking for things to do in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.

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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

Pine Valley Hike (52km)

1 Review on “Pine Valley Hike (52km)”

Overall rating

Darren Edwards Trail Author

Absolutely love this hike and its a must-do side-trip when on the Overland Track if you have time to spare. While this makes a good multi-day hike on its own, the real rewards are spending more time at Pine Valley to explore the nearby Acropolis and the Labyrinth Plateau.

18/11/2024, 15:40

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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.

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.

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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.