Trail summary

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Quick overview: Explore the wonders of Tasmania's Mount Field National Park through the Tall Trees Walk, a 1km grade 2 hike, perfect for a gentle 45-minute stroll. Stand in awe of the world's tallest flowering plants, the towering swamp gums, some of which are taller than Hobart's Wrest Point Casino. Learn about the lifecycle of these ancient giants and their role in the forest ecosystem. This easy circuit trail is a must-visit for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Length: 1km

Duration: 45 mins

Grade 2 (Easy)

Style: Circuit

Start: Lake Dobson Road

End: Lake Dobson Road

Location: Mount Field National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Westerway

From state capital: 74km

Latitude: -42.6824235678726

Longitude: 146.70389950275424

Hike Overview

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Hike overview

The Tall Trees Walk is a 1-kilometre loop trail in Mount Field National Park, Tasmania, classified as a grade 2 hike and typically taking around 45 minutes to complete. This short but impressive walk highlights the towering swamp gums (Eucalyptus regnans), the tallest flowering plants in the world. As you traverse the trail, you'll feel dwarfed by these magnificent trees, which can exceed 100 metres in height and have been known to live for centuries. The largest of these trees were already growing when Abel Tasman first sighted Tasmania in 1642, and they are taller than Hobart's Wrest Point Casino. For those interested in learning more about the trees, a clinometer is available to help calculate their height. The walk provides ample opportunity to marvel at these ancient giants and reflect on the lifecycle of these towering trees, including how fallen trees contribute to the forest ecosystem.

Tips

The track is suitable for most ages and features a hardened or compacted surface, which may include gentle hill sections and occasional steps.
Ensure that children are supervised at all times, as the track may be closed during strong winds or stormy weather due to the risk of falling trees and branches.
A valid parks pass is required for entry into Tasmania’s national parks.
The Tall Trees Walk can be accessed partway up Lake Dobson Road within Mount Field National Park.

Map and GPX file

Tall Trees Walk (1km)

Total distance: 745 m
Max elevation: 272 m
Min elevation: 255 m
Total climbing: 17 m
Total descent: -17 m

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Getting there

Tall Trees Walk (1km)

Mount Field National Park is located just over an hour’s drive from Hobart, accessible via the A10 and B62 through New Norfolk and Westerway. After passing through Westerway, continue on the winding road to the small township of National Park, where you will find the entrance to the park. Please avoid driving within the reserves at night whenever possible, as the roads are frequented by native wildlife; drive slowly and be vigilant for animals. The Tall Trees Walk can be reached partway up Lake Dobson Road within the park.

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Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

About the region

Mount Field National Park, often referred to as "the park for all seasons," showcases a remarkable array of natural landscapes. Located in southern Tasmania, approximately 64 kilometers northwest of Hobart, this park is a convenient day trip from the state capital, offering a diverse range of walks, bushwalks, and hikes suitable for all visitors.

The journey through Mount Field begins with a short, leisurely walk to Russell Falls, one of Tasmania's most iconic waterfalls. The path leads you through towering tree ferns and giant eucalypts, providing a tranquil introduction to the park's natural beauty. As you venture further into the park, the landscape changes dramatically. The road to Lake Dobson offers access to longer day walks and, during winter, the snow-dusted slopes of the Mount Mawson ski field. The Tarn Shelf, particularly stunning in autumn, comes alive with the vibrant colours of the deciduous beech, or fagus, which turns the hillsides gold, orange, and red.

Mount Field National Park covers nearly 163 square kilometers and is renowned for its ecological diversity. The park features towering eucalypt forests, some of the tallest in the world, which give way to unique alpine vegetation at higher altitudes. Glaciated landscapes and alpine tarns provide a dramatic backdrop for bushwalks, while the lower elevations offer easily accessible walking tracks past magnificent waterfalls, including Russell Falls, which is perhaps the most photographed waterfall in Tasmania.

For those interested in more challenging hikes, Lake Dobson serves as the starting point for several longer trails. The Pandani Grove walk, which skirts the edge of Lake Dobson, offers a closer look at the unique flora of the region. The park also provides well-equipped picnic spots, a playground for children, and a visitor centre with a café, making it an ideal destination for family trips.

Whether you're in the mood for a casual walk, an adventurous hike, or simply a day spent exploring Tasmania's diverse landscapes, Mount Field National Park has something to offer. The park’s changing altitudes and weather conditions provide a dynamic experience, showcasing the distinct ecological zones that make Tasmania so unique. During winter, the park even offers opportunities for cross-country skiing on Mount Mawson's slopes.

Want to find the best trails in Mount Field 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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Tall Trees Walk (1km)

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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

Hike overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

Tall Trees Walk (1km)