Overland Track

Distance 65km | Climb 1,606m | Descent 1,739m | High point 1,271m

The Overland Track is one of Australia’s most iconic multi-day hikes. Spanning approximately 65km, the trail takes walkers through diverse landscapes, including ancient rainforests, alpine moors and glacial valleys. It offers the chance to experience Tasmania’s unique flora and fauna while exploring some of the island’s most dramatic scenery. The track is open year-round, although most choose to walk it between October and May due to milder weather.

Highlights of the Overland Track include views from Cradle Mountain, alpine scenery including moorlands, glacial lakes and rugged plateaus as well as sections of lush temperate rainforest contrast and open highlands.

Wildlife that you may encounter when hiking the Overland Track include wallabies, wombats, echidnas and Tasmanian devils.

The Overland Track is well-maintained but some sections involve steep climbs or rocky surfaces, requiring a good level of fitness and sturdy footwear. Carrying appropriate clothing, food and safety equipment is essential, as there are no resupply points along the trail.

Day 1: Ronny Creek–Waterfall Valley (10.7km)
The trail begins at Ronny Creek, near the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. The first section passes through button grass plains before ascending to Marion’s Lookout. This viewpoint offers sweeping views of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake. From here, the track continues across alpine terrain, including the dramatic Cradle Plateau. Optional side trips include the summit of Cradle Mountain, a challenging climb requiring scrambling over rocky terrain. The day ends at Waterfall Valley, where walkers can stay in a hut or pitch a tent nearby.

Day 2: Waterfall Valley–Lake Windermere (8.6km)
This shorter day traverses undulating alpine landscapes with open moorlands and occasional patches of forest. Highlights include Lake Will, a serene glacial lake accessible via a short side track. The trail descends slightly before reaching Lake Windermere, a tranquil spot for an afternoon rest. Facilities include a hut and designated camping areas.

Day 3: Lake Windermere–Pelion Plains (16.8km)
This is one of the longest days on the track, with varied terrain. The trail crosses Pine Forest Moor, an expansive alpine plain offering views of Mount Oakleigh. After descending through rainforest, walkers reach Frog Flats, the lowest point of the track. The day concludes with a gradual climb to Pelion Plains. The historic Old Pelion Hut can be seen here, along with Pelion Hut, the largest on the track, which provides accommodation.

Day 4: Pelion Plains–Kia Ora (8.6km)
The fourth day begins with a steady climb to Pelion Gap, the highest point on the main track. From here, walkers can take an optional side trip to the summits of Mount Ossa, Tasmania’s highest peak, or Mount Pelion East. These detours require good weather and fitness. The descent to Kia Ora Hut passes through alpine forests, with mossy trees and flowing streams.

Day 5: Kia Ora–Windy Ridge (9.6km)
The day starts with a series of waterfalls along the Mersey River, including Fergusson Falls, D’Alton Falls, and Hartnett Falls. These are accessible via short detours from the main track. The trail then ascends Du Cane Gap, a moderately steep section leading to rainforest and eucalypt woodlands. The day ends at Windy Ridge Hut, also known as Bert Nichols Hut, which offers panoramic views of Mount Geryon.

Day 6: Windy Ridge–Lake St Clair (9.7km)
The final section descends gradually through rainforest, following the edge of Lake St Clair. Walkers can finish at Narcissus Hut, where a ferry service is available to transport them across the lake to the visitor centre. Alternatively, the trail continues along the lake’s shore to Cynthia Bay, adding an additional 17.5km.

Practical details

The trail begins at Ronny Creek, near the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. Shuttle buses operate between the visitor centre and Ronny Creek, as private vehicles are not allowed beyond a certain point.

The track ends at either Narcissus Hut (for those taking the ferry) or Cynthia Bay, both accessible via the Lake St Clair Visitor Centre. Many walkers arrange transport or shuttles through Overland Track Transport between the start and end points.

Huts along the track provide basic shelter with wooden bunks, water tanks and composting toilets. Camping is permitted at designated sites near each hut.

From October to May, the track requires a booking fee, which covers hut accommodation and track maintenance. Walkers must also purchase a National Parks Pass, valid for entry to all Tasmanian parks. During the winter season, no booking fee is required, but a Parks Pass is still mandatory.

We may earn a small commission if you book after clicking the links below.

Dove Lake Road, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306
Website parks.tas.gov.au
Booking fee $295, children (17 and under) $255 payable between October and May