Tasmanian Trail is a 480km, grade 5 hike located in Central Tasmania, Tasmania. The hike should take around 25 days to complete.
Hike overview
The Tasmanian Trail is the only long distance (480km) multi-use trail in Tasmania. The experience is recreational, cultural and nature based, connecting Devonport in the north with Dover in the south.
It often passes through or close to small towns, allowing travellers to visit local attractions while using as little or as much as they like and to take advantage of local accommodation, hospitality and specialist services.
It offers a variety of experiences for all - from the most experienced long-distance traveller seaking a challenge to those interested in a shorter, more relaxed excursion.
Those taking longer treks should be aware that they are likely to be faced with sudden weather changes, water crossings, varying surface conditions and steep terrain. Drinking water may be difficult to find and access to phone reception will not always be available.
The Tasmanian Trail Association manages the Trail through a volunteer structure with very active support of community groups, local government bodies and regional organisations.
Because the Trail caters for equestrians, it does not traverse National Parks. It relies on support from Forestry Tasmania, other land managers and land owners for its pathway.
As the Trail is administered and managed entirely by volunteers it is important for this type of support to continue. If you believe that you could give some time, follow this link.
Planning
The Tasmanian Trail Guidebook is an essential part of enjoying the Tasmanian Trail. It provides detailed directions and other information and should be studied before setting out.
Route and GPX file
Members who have purchased the guidebook can now obtain a free GPX file to load into their GPS. It's for this reason I have not made the GPX file available here.
This 'track' file contains a snail-trail that follows the Trail for its entire length and includes all alternative routes. This file supplements the guidebook which not only provides directions to navigate along the Trail but also details other essential information.
Tips
- Horse riders should allow 3 weeks to ride the 480km long Trail. Allowing rest days for horses and riders the Trail should be able to be finished in 21 days.
- Bike riders can usually complete two sections each day. If no rest days are taken the Trail can be completed in 8 days.
- Walkers will take considerably longer €“ allow 25 days.
- I would not recommend the Tasmanian Trail as a long distance walking route. While some shorter sections might make worthwhile walks, I would suggest this is better to be ridden rather than walked.
- Parts of the Trail are not for the inexperienced or the faint-hearted as some difficult sections will be experienced.
- The surface of the pathway is varied with most of the Trail on some form of made up road but there are sections that may be difficult where they cross virgin bush, farm land and eroded stock routes.
- If attempting the whole Trail, two rivers need to be crossed and both can be impassable after rain.
For more information visit the Tasmanian Trail website
Trail location
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Gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Central Tasmania attracted settlers due to its wonderful luscious landscape and agricultural quality. The main industries in the area include beef cattle, timber milling and wool. There are several pretty historic towns that you can visit on your journey through central Tasmania, heading along the Midland Highway (also known as the Heritage Highway) from Hobart to Launceston.
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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
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
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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.