Best Hiking Trails in Tasmania

Feature: Lake Dove nestled under Cradle Mountain Credit: Tourism Tasmania

Tasmania is a hiker’s dream. With ancient rainforests, alpine peaks, and dramatic coastlines, the island’s trails offer a little bit of everything. From short day walks to iconic multi-day treks, hiking here delivers serious benefits for body and mind, all wrapped in breathtaking natural beauty.

Overland Track

Distance: 65km one-way Time: 6–7 days Difficulty: Moderate

Arguably Australia’s most famous hiking trail, the Overland Track runs through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. Expect alpine plains, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls and stunning views at every turn.

Maria Island Walk

Distance: Approx. 43km Time: 4 days guided Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

This guided walk combines wildlife, coastal beauty, convict history, and Aboriginal culture. Wander through eucalyptus forests, along white-sand beaches, and past dramatic cliffs, while spotting the rare and endangered wildlife the area is known for.

Freycinet Peninsula Circuit

Distance: 27km loop Time: 2–3 days Difficulty: Moderate-Hard

This East Coast loop showcases Wineglass Bay, Hazards Beach, and secluded campsites. With beachside trails, granite mountains, and turquoise waters, it’s one of the most scenic hikes in the state.

Cradle Mountain Summit Walk

Distance: 12.5km circuit Time: 5–6 hours Difficulty: Hard

This challenging hike starts at Dove Lake and includes Hansons Peak and Marions Lookout. The final ascent requires scrambling, but the panoramic summit views over alpine wilderness are worth every step.

Walls of Jerusalem Circuit

Distance: 23km circuit Time: 3–4 days Difficulty: Hard

This highland hike passes through glacial tarns, pencil pine forests, and rocky ridges. A remote experience in the heart of Tasmania’s Central Plateau, it’s ideal for experienced hikers who are prepared for significant elevation gain. Your hard work is rewarded with views from the ‘top of Tasmania’ of dolerite peaks, lakes and streams, and unique flora.

Tarkine Wilderness Walks

Distance: Varies Time: From short day hikes to multi-day journeys Difficulty: Varies

Explore one of the largest temperate rainforests in the world, accompanied by unique flora, rugged river valleys, and a sense of untouched wilderness. Home to seven of the state’s top ten highest mountains, there are many well-marked tracks, suitable for all levels.

Labillardiere Peninsula Walk, Bruny Island

Distance: 18km circuit Time: 5.5–6.5 hours Difficulty: Moderate

This long but rewarding coastal walk offers stunning views of the Southern Ocean, long beaches, and sheltered bays. Ideal for birdwatchers and those seeking quiet beauty.

wukalina Walk, Bay of Fires

Distance: 17km Time: 4-days guided Difficulty: Moderate

Experience Tasmania’s Bay of Fires and Mt William National Park through the eyes of the Palawa people. This guided Indigenous experience blends hiking, storytelling, and heritage accommodation in a unique, immersive journey.

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With its wild and varied terrain, Tasmania offers some of the most unforgettable hiking experiences in Australia. Whether you’re tackling a legendary long-distance trail or a short coastal circuit, the fresh air and raw beauty of Tasmania will leave a lasting impression.

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