Challenge
Overland Track
Tasmania, Australia
About this challenge
The Overland Track is Tasmania’s premier long-distance hike, spanning about 65 km through the heart of Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. Usually completed in 6 days, the route passes through ancient rainforests, alpine moorlands, and glacial valleys, with opportunities to climb peaks like Mount Ossa (Tasmania’s highest). Daily distances range from 8–16 km, with moderate to challenging elevation changes. Many hikers extend the trek by walking the additional 17 km along Lake St Clair. The Overland Track is one of the world’s finest examples of a wilderness walk, showcasing Tasmania’s World Heritage–listed landscapes. Visitor numbers are capped with a daily permit system to preserve the wilderness. Some of the track’s plant species, like King Billy pines, are direct descendants of Gondwana flora. Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, one of only a few places recognized for both natural and cultural significance.
Quick facts
- Checkpoints
- 4
- Distance
- 65 miles
- Avg Completion
- 5-7 days
- Best Season
- Summer
Overview
The Overland Track combines manageable daily distances with constant scenery changes, making each stage distinct. From mountain summits to mossy forests and alpine tarns, the variety keeps hikers engaged. It holds cultural importance as the traditional land of the Palawa people, with a history of use stretching back thousands of years. The route connects spectacular wilderness areas including the iconic Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair corridor, Mount Ossa summit opportunities, and pristine alpine lakes carved by ancient glaciers. Many hikers extend their journey by walking the additional 17 kilometers along Lake St Clair, bringing the total distance to 82 kilometers.
History
The route follows ancient Aboriginal pathways that connected hunting and resource grounds. Modern hiking began in the 1930s, when Austrian Gustav Weindorfer advocated for public access to this wilderness. Geologically, the trail highlights Jurassic dolerite columns, remnants of ancient volcanic activity, alongside glacial valleys and lakes carved during the ice ages. Pencil pines more than 1,000 years old grow in the alpine zones, making the trail a living museum of prehistoric ecosystems.
Safety
Essential gear for the Overland Track must handle Tasmania's notoriously changeable mountain weather, where temperatures ranging from hot (in excess of 35 °C or 95 °F) in summer to below 0 °C (32 °F) in winter. Snow can fall at any time and is common during the winter, especially on the Cradle Mountain Plateau and around Mount Ossa. Essential gear includes waterproof boots, rain gear, insulating layers, and reliable shelter. Navigation is generally straightforward due to excellent trail markings, but fog and storms can reduce visibility. Hikers must carry all food, as there are no resupply points along the track. Lightweight, high-energy meals such as dehydrated food, trail mix, and muesli bars are recommended. Stoves are required, as open fires are prohibited to protect fragile alpine environments. Water is plentiful from streams and lakes but should be treated for safety.
Permits
Overland Track permit is available from Tasmania National Parks and is required for the period October to May. For other months no permit is needed with current pricing showing some variation in sources. Remember the price is $285 per person. The Overland Track is supported by a network of basic huts spaced along the route, including Waterfall Valley, Windermere, Pelion, Kia Ora, and Narcissus. These huts provide sleeping platforms, rainwater tanks, and simple cooking areas, but no heating or electricity. Reservations are required, especially in peak season. Camping platforms are available at each hut site for hikers carrying tents.
Featured checkpoints
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Lake Windermere to Kia Ora
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Kia Ora to Windy Ridge (Bert Nichols Hut)
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Windy Ridge (Bert Nichols Hut) to Cynthia Bay
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All stops on this route
Overland Track: common questions
How long is Overland Track?
Overland Track covers 65 miles in total.
How long does Overland Track take to complete?
Most people complete Overland Track in about 5-7 days.
When is the best time to do Overland Track?
The best season for Overland Track is Summer.
How many checkpoints does Overland Track have?
Overland Track has 4 checkpoints to log on the way to finishing it.