There really is no need to hibernate during winter—fresh snowfall adds extra magic to our wild landscapes, that clean Tassie air is extra crisp, and you don’t need to get up quite as early to catch the sunrise. Not to mention, exploring on foot is a great way to warm up!
We’ve listed a few of our favourite walks to do during the cooler months. These tracks are located within Tasmania’s national parks, so remember to grab a Parks Pass. And you know how dramatic Tassie is, so be prepared for sudden changes in mood (aka weather)!
1. The Three Capes Track
The Tasman Peninsula’s Three Capes Track is an epic (yet family friendly) four day, three night coastal adventure. Each evening, rest up in a beautifully designed shared cabin, with luxurious touches including gas cooktops and your very own mattress. Winter’s shorter days mean you don’t have to get up quite as early to hike out for that breathtaking Cape Pillar sunrise. If you’re quick, you can take advantage of the promotional special on August departures.
After ticking this one off the bucket list, treat yourself to a few luxurious nights at Lufra Hotel and Apartments or Stewarts Bay Lodge.
Image: @mama_cass_pics/Instagram
2. Lake Dobson & the Tarn Shelf
With a bit of snowfall, the Mount Field National Park turns into a winter wonderland! We particularly love how pretty Lake Dobson becomes after a bit of snow (sometimes parts of the lake even freeze). The Tarn Shelf circuit is another favourite, with the frozen tarns adding extra magic.
Whisk your beloved away for a cosy getaway in the nearby Government Huts. Stargaze after dark, then hopefully wake up to fresh snow!
Image: @vertigrator/Instagram
3. Lake St Clair
The Central Highlands are so pretty in winter, especially when the snow settles. Visit Lake St Clair and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the shore at Cynthia Bay. The weather can change quickly and often, so a gentle walk with views of lovely snow-capped peaks—without any of the steep climbing or whole day commitment—is perfect during the cooler months. Perhaps treat yourself to a luxurious night or two at Pumphouse Point.
Image: @ctungphotography/Instagram
4. Lake Esperance
The Hartz Mountains National Park is a highlight of the Southern Trove. Enjoy an easy trek along a wooden boardwalk to Lake Esperance, a glacier-formed tarn in the park’s alpine heathland (you could also continue on to Hartz Peak). In winter, parts of the park can be shrouded in mist, making for an enchanting walk and mysterious scene by the crystal clear waters of Lake Esperance.
Image: @phillipedelaroche/Instagram
5. Fluted Cape
Fresh white snow has nothing on Bruny Island’s mystical white wallabies! These special locals would definitely look at home in the snow, but it’s unlikely they’ll find any in the South Bruny National Park.
Image: @paulneedssleep/Instagram
Instead, we can all enjoy stunning cliff and ocean views on the trek to Fluted Cape. There are also some top vantage points to watch for migrating whales (between May and November).
Image: @4designssake/Instagram
6. The Needles
The jagged ridge-line known as The Needles is one of Tasmania’s lesser-known gems. The 3km/2 hour return walk is located on the northern edge of the Southwest National Park, with access via Maydena. Enjoy amazing views from all angles, with Mount Mueller and Mount Anne to the south, Mount Field to the north, and glimpses of Lakes Pedder and Gordon to the west.
Image: @brodieemery/Instagram
We love it when you share your adventures with us! Share your snaps by tagging @hobartandbeyond and using #HobartandBeyond on Instagram and Facebook – we’ll share our favourite pics on social media and in the blog.
Related posts:
Snow Day: 4 Enchanting Winter Spots in Southern Tasmania
Six Reasons to Explore the Derwent Valley & Central Highlands
10 Enchanting Walks in the Southern Trove
Edge of the Earth: 5 Dramatic Walks in the Tasman Region
Header image:
Tarn Shelf Circuit, @allmansam/Instagram
Words:
Isabel Galloway
