Overland Track Tasmania

The Overland Track Tasmania is widely regarded as Australia’s premier long-distance hiking trail and one of the great wilderness walks of the world. This 65-kilometre, one-way trek takes walkers deep into the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, a vast and untouched landscape of alpine peaks, ancient forests, wild rivers, and glacial valleys. For those seeking adventure, connection to nature, and a truly immersive wilderness experience, the Overland Track Tasmania delivers in every way.

Starting at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre in the north, the Overland Track climbs into a high alpine environment with stunning views of Cradle Mountain before continuing south through a series of remarkable and varied ecosystems. The track passes by the towering Barn Bluff, the sweeping moorlands of Pelion Plains, the rainforest canopy of Myrtle forests, and offers side trips to iconic peaks such as Mount Ossa—the highest point in Tasmania.

Each day on the Overland Track brings new scenery and a fresh rhythm, from serene button grass plains to dramatic ridgelines, glacier-carved valleys, and lush temperate rainforest. The final stage of the Overland Track Tasmania leads walkers to the shores of Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, where hikers can choose to walk the full lake edge or take the ferry from Narcissus Hut to the visitor centre at Cynthia Bay.

The Overland Track Tasmania typically takes six days to complete, though some choose to walk it over seven or more days by including rest stops and optional side trips. Walkers stay in basic but well-maintained huts or at designated tent platforms. The trail is self-guided and suited to those with moderate hiking experience, a sense of adventure, and proper preparation.

Between October and May, the Overland Track operates under a mandatory booking and permit system to protect the fragile environment and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all walkers. During this main season, the track must be walked from north to south only. This system helps preserve the unique wilderness character of the Overland Track Tasmania and reduces overcrowding.

What makes the Overland Track Tasmania so unforgettable is more than just the scenery—it’s the sense of remoteness, the clarity of the air, the wildlife that calmly shares the path, and the peaceful moments far from the distractions of modern life. For many, this is a life-changing experience and one that stays with them long after the walk is done.

From its dramatic beginning at Cradle Mountain to its quiet conclusion at Lake St Clair, the Overland Track Tasmania offers a rare opportunity to step into nature and walk through a truly wild and ancient land. It is a walk that challenges, inspires, and rewards in equal measure.

Whether planning your first long-distance hike or returning to relive the journey, the Overland Track Tasmania remains one of Australia’s greatest hiking experiences—wild, beautiful, and deeply memorable.

To help you plan visit these pages that have Overland Track Information.

Overland Track Transport
Overland Track Permit
Overland Track Ferry
Overland Track Food
Overland track gear
Overland Track side trips
Overland Track huts
Overland track camping
Overland track fauna