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Australia:
Tasmania Overland Track (Cradle Valley - Lake St. Clair) Distance: 81kms Duration: 6-10 days (depends on if you're in a rush, or wish to see it all) Best time to hike: It's up to you and your luck. I know of some people who got snowed on Xmas day, or got all sunny days, or a mixture of sun, rain, and snow. (which was me) May be quite cold between June-Aug. |
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This is probably the most famous walk of Australia as it goes through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Since this track is so popular, it can get crowded at times. This trek is great for amateurs and intermediate hikers, since there are plenty of huts along the way with stoves and decent outhouses. The huts are great places to meet fellow hikers, to socialize, to cook, and to get away from the rain. The outhouses are clean (were clean when I was there), with a proper ceiling, and rice hulls to make your duties more enjoyable instead of doing the wild scat dance. If the luxury of a hut is too much for you, there are also plenty of tenting sites to your avail as well. If this track is to be attempted, booking a spot is recommended. There are plenty of side trips when hiking along the Overland Track. One could quickly rush through the track in a few days or take over a week by exploring the various side trips. There are numerous mountains to scramble, and waterfalls to check out. Since the access route is just along the track, one can also attempt to summit Mt. Ossa, which is Tasmania's highest mountain. And thanks to all the wooden board walks, it's possible hike the entire trail with a dry foot. Or maybe I was just lucky |
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The
only downside to this magnificent location may be the shear number of people
on the track. If you're looking for a bit of isolation, but still want to
experience this wonderful track, go out and try a few of the side tracks.
I found that the general population stuck to the main track, and plugged
their way through to their destination. If you're a lone hiker, and hope
to meet up with people to share a bit of the experience, there are plenty
of people who have a similar itinerary.
P.S. For a small fee, you can also hire an emergency radio beacon from the Tasmania Parks office. I'd especially recommend it if you're hiking alone. |
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Highlights: Climb the highest mountain in Tasmania, Mt Ossa. Climb the numerous mountains available to you by the trail, or enter the Labyrinth. Transportation: Plenty of buses to/from Hobart, Launceston, Devonport to Cradle Mountain. More buses to/from Hobart to Lake St. Clair end of the trail. Accommodation: There's a camp ground available at both ends of the trail. More cabins and sorta make shift youth hostel by the Cradle Mountain end. |
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More info: Websites: |