About the trek
Imagine waking up to the soft morning light filtering through the ancient pencil pine forests, the scent of wildflowers filling the air. The Overland Track in Tasmania's Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a sensory feast. This 80km alpine trek, a UNESCO World Heritage wilderness, is a journey through some of the most pristine and untouched landscapes on Earth. As you traverse the lush meadows, you'll encounter the majestic Cradle Mountain standing tall at 1617m, and the glacial turquoise lakes that seem to reflect the sky itself. Each day brings a new vista, from the vibrant bugyals carpeted with wildflowers to the serene, mirror-like waters of the lakes. This trek is not just a physical journey but an emotional one, offering a sense of peace and connection with nature that is rare to find. It suits those who seek scenic beauty and a moderate challenge, promising an experience that is as enriching as it is breathtaking.
Key Facts
Why Trekkers Love It
- 01Traverses the heart of Tasmania's UNESCO World Heritage wilderness.
- 02Features the iconic Cradle Mountain, standing at 1617m.
- 03Passes by glacial turquoise lakes and ancient pencil pine forests.
- 04Offers lush meadows carpeted with unique wildflowers.
More Photos
Photo Gallery
5 photosDay by Day
The Route
Route & Itinerary
Ronny Creek
🚩 Starting Point
Waterfall Valley
Waypoint 1
Cradle Mountain
▲ Highest Point
Lake Windermere
Waypoint 3
Pelion East
Waypoint 4
Narcissus Hut
Waypoint 5
Lake St Clair
🏁 End Point
Altitude
Elevation Profile
Ronny Creek
780m
Waterfall Valley
1,150m
Cradle Mountain
1,617m
Lake Windermere
1,200m
Pelion East
1,000m
Narcissus Hut
740m
Lake St Clair
740m
Start
780m
Peak
1,617m
Total Gain
+837m
When to Go
Monthly Climate Guide
Best months to trek: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr. Avoid Jun, Jul, Aug — heavy rainfall makes trails risky.
Jan
BESTCold & Snowy
-5–8°C
Feb
BESTSnowy
-3–10°C
Mar
BESTOpening
2–15°C
Apr
BESTPleasant
8–20°C
Jun
NOWMonsoon Onset
12–22°C
Nov
BESTCold
0–12°C
Dec
BESTSnowy
-5–5°C
Getting There
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
Hobart Airport, Hobart, 220km
Nearest Railway
No direct railway, Hobart is the nearest city
Flight to Hobart, then 4-hour drive, ₹20,000–₹30,000
Not feasible
Not feasible
Flight to Hobart, then 4-hour drive, ₹20,000–₹30,000
Not feasible
Not feasible
Flight to Hobart, then 4-hour drive, ₹20,000–₹30,000
Not feasible
Not feasible
Last Mile to Base Camp
Shared jeep or private car from Cradle Mountain to the trek start point.
Pro tip: Book your transport and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
Costs
Budget Breakdown
Trek costs ₹15,000–₹40,000 depending on your style and whether you hire a guide.
Mid-Range Trek
Guide + porter, comfortable guesthouses
per day
₹4,200 – ₹5,800 per day
Prices are estimates for 2025–26. Costs vary by season and group size.
Preparation
Pack & Stay Safe
What to Pack
gear
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag 0°C
- Backpack 55L
- Gaiters
clothing
- Waterproof jacket (essential)
- Warm fleece
- Thermal base layers
- Merino wool socks
- Hat and gloves
essentials
- Emergency locator beacon (ELB — required in Tasmania)
- Hut reservation confirmation
- Topo maps
Safety Tips
- 1Tasmanian weather can mean all four seasons in one day — pack for everything
- 2Track is managed one-direction only Oct-May — north to south only
Permit & Entry Info
Overland Track Booking: AUD 200/person Oct-May (required advance booking). National Park Pass: AUD 40 (8 weeks).
Emergency Contacts
Parks Tasmania
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The Overland Track is rated as moderate difficulty. It involves daily treks of 10-15km with some altitude gain, but it is manageable for those with a good level of fitness.
The best time to trek the Overland Track is from November to April. These months offer the most stable weather conditions and the best visibility of the stunning landscapes.
The cost of the Overland Track trek varies depending on your style. Budget trekkers can expect to spend around ₹15,000–₹25,000, while those opting for comfort may spend up to ₹40,000 or more.
Yes, a permit is required for the Overland Track. It can be obtained online or at the park offices. The permit covers your stay in the national park and ensures you are following the park's regulations.
While the Overland Track is rated as moderate, it is not recommended for absolute beginners. Some trekking experience and a good level of fitness are advisable.
The maximum altitude on the Overland Track is 1617m. Altitude sickness is rare but possible. It's important to acclimatize properly and listen to your body.
Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, moisture-wicking clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, a hydration bladder, a first aid kit, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
The nearest city is Hobart. From Hobart, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach Cradle Mountain, which is about a 4-hour drive away.
The total distance of the Overland Track is 80km, which is typically covered over 6 days with daily treks of 10-15km.
While it is possible to do the Overland Track without a guide, it is highly recommended to hire one for safety, navigation, and to enhance your experience with local insights.
During the best trekking months (Nov-Apr), daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, while nights can drop to 5°C–10°C. Layered clothing is essential.
Mobile network is limited and unreliable in the national park. There are no ATMs at the base camp, so it's advisable to carry enough cash for your trek.
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