Overview
Grade and Weather
Itinerary
Schedule and Prices
Equipment
Enquiry

Starting near Cradle Mountain in Tasmania’s central north west The Overland Track winds its way approximately 65klms south to Lake St. Clair. Along the way it passes through some ever-changing and truly spectacular landscapes including vast alpine moors and scenic mountain passes, dense mossy rainforest and majestic eucalypt woodlands. From the iconic Cradle Mountain, past Tasmania’s highest Peak and ending on Australia’s deepest and arguably most scenic natural lake it is easy to see what draws people from around the world to experience the trek. In addition, the variation in habitat provides a home for a unique array of plant and animal communities and the opportunity for close encounters is often a highlight in itself.

Our itineraries allow for plenty of time to explore. With at least six days for the walk and averaging around 11klms (3/4 hrs walking) on the track per day you’ll have ample time to relax near waterfalls, take in magnificent views or perhaps choose to climb a nearby peak. As mentioned, the track passes by Mt Ossa and the summit (the highest point in Tasmania) is a viable side-trip option in most conditions.

At night we set up camp in sheltered sites and pitch our tents on timber platforms. Our group camping area's are separate from public sites, and have easy access to toilet facilities and fresh water tanks. You’ll have a chance to explore the local area (these are great places to meet some of the local wildlife), go for a swim or just relax around the camp. In the evening we will make sure that your well fed and our four season tents and sleeping gear will make your nights cosy and warm.

The emphasis for the walk is on flexibility. This isn’t ‘boot camp’; we realize that within every group there will be those who just want a relaxing holiday as well as the more energetic. We leave with a minimum of two guides, so there are opportunities to divide the group for side-trips and accommodate everyone’s sense of adventure. You go at your own pace and without pressure.

Winter in Tasmania's mountains has always been a favourite time for local walkers. Winter days often clear to reveal the most vivid colours and views. Everywhere you look can be a picture of beauty, especially with a dusting of snow. The silence and solitude offer a profound wilderness experience.

We take extra days for our (spring autumn and) winter treks. We’ll spend the first night on the edge of the rainforest near Cradle Mountain in self-contained cabins, allowing an earlier start the next morning. Although the days are shorter, there is more than enough time to complete each day’s walk as well as most of the usual side-trips. Winter treks have at least one additional day kept as a rest day or in case of delays.

We normally carry lightweight snowshoes to minimise the chances of any delay by heavy snow and so we can enjoy more of the high altitude diversions. Extra food and supplies are also placed at our ‘caches’ along the way to minimise pack weights and make our campsites more comfortable. Extra fuel supplies allow us to take the chill from our group shelter in the evening.

As well as avoiding the pressures of delay, our longer winter treks provide greater flexibility within our itinerary. Additional days give us the option to spend an extra night in the heart of the park in the Pelion area and/or the chance to explore Pine Valley in the South. Our ten-day tours, when we haven't encountered any delay, include a (two day) side trip to Pine Valley. From here we can explore 'The Labyrinth' and possibly get the chance to climb 'The Acropolis' in fine weather. This is a spectacular area with snow cover and the altitude gains on these side-trips may bring us back up into alpine snowfields. This can be especially rewarding if the snow has not been with us earlier in the trek.

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Summer – easy/moderate
Winter – moderate/challenging

The Overland Track need not be a difficult walk. With a minimum of six days, the distances covered each day are achievable by most people who engage in regular activity and have no (obviously exclusive) pre-existing medical conditions. In most cases your pack will weigh less than 12kg and we’ve taken people on this walk who are into their late 70s. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the trek and feel able to participate in side-trips.

In recent years, a lot of work has gone into hardening the track. This has had the effect of making the experience easier and cut the time taken to walk the main track. Much of the walking is now on various forms of boardwalk, steps are levelled and drained and bridges have been built or replaced. Campsites and facilities have also been upgraded.

There are several steeper passes to attain (nothing (besides a short 'chained' section on the first day) so steep as to require the use of hands), some more difficult terrain where you need to negotiate tree roots or rocks and a small number of wet and muddy areas. Side trips can be a bit more challenging and exposed, however, there is no need to go any further than you feel comfortable with. Winter (snow) walking can be more tiring, however, the use of snowshoes (with good snow cover) can actually make the walk easier and the cushioning of soft snow can be easier on your legs and joints on downhill sections.

Just being on your feet for several hours a day can seem daunting to some. A few weeks of regular exercise can help a great deal and result in you enjoying the walk more. If you start walking, say three or four times a week, and program some longer walks into your routine you’ll find that your fitness will improve quickly. If you have more time to prepare, take some longer walks and over varying terrain. Try a daypack with some weight, it doesn’t need to be heavy (5kg can seem like a lot in an inappropriate pack).

The following chart will give you a general idea of what to expect of the weather. It is important to understand that (more than anywhere else in Australia) extreme weather events can occur at any time of the year. Blizzards and heavy snow can be encountered in mid-summer. Conversely, winter days can be sunny, dry and mild. Rainfall and temperature data show wetter and colder weather in winter but this can be a little deceptive, the measurement may reflect snowfalls, a single heavy downpour, several wet days followed by fine weather. As is often the case, part of the day may be wet and drizzly and the rest clear, sunny and relatively warm.

Although demanding a healthy respect, there is no need to fear the weather conditions, even in mid-winter. We carry equipment to be prepared for any outcome and adopt safety procedures with adverse weather conditions in mind. The aim is to have you not only accomplish the walk but in a relatively high level of comfort.

Our progress on the track is very rarely affected by weather conditions. Our planned side-trips may be. The leading guide will try to access all the main side trips, however, the descision to continue rests with them.

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Overland Track Walks:

For six day tour options we offer pickups, if necessary, from Launceston (city and airport) around 8pm on the evening prior to the tour and deliver to the variety of accommodation options available in Devonport (see links page). On the morning of departure we pickup from Devonport (accommodation/ferry etc) normally by around 7.30am (If traveling independently, you should plan to arrive at our tour base by 7.30am).

With seven day (and longer) tours we pick up from Launceston (city and airport) around 9am and from Devonport (city and airport) by 10.30am (If traveling independently you should plan to arrive at the tour base by 10.30am).

Equipment Outfitting usually takes 1.5-2hrs and morning tea is available during the time spent outfitting/packing . The drive up to Cradle Mountain from Devonport is around 1.5hrs.

We spend our first night in cabin accommodation* at Cradle Mountain. This allows us to take more time outfitting at the tour base and loosen up with a short walk in the afternoon. Also, in these seasons, having longer the next day to reach Waterfall Valley allows plenty of time to schedule extra stops or possibly a chance to climb Cradle Mountain (if weather conditions are favorable).

Day One /Two (10klm 4-5hrs walk)
Following breakfast (seven day+ itinerary)/ light lunch and briefing, we set off on the climb up onto the Cradle Mt. plateau past waterfalls, glacial lakes and through groves of pine and beech forest. Once we reach the plateau you will be surrounded, in good weather, by magnificent views of mountain ranges stretching off to the horizon and get a look at the route to be taken over the next few days.

'Kitchen Hut', near the Cradle summit turnoff, is a spectacular setting for lunch (or an afternoon snack). For those attempting the summit a further 2.5-3 hrs will be needed (seven day itinerary).

From here, The Overland Track meanders along the craggy western base of Cradle Mountain and around the rim of an impressive glacial 'cirque' below Mt. Emmet. Barn Bluff looms close as we near the descent to Waterfall Valley and our first overnight stop on the forested side of the valley.

Most people will look back at this to have been the hardest day of the walk. There is a short section in the morning that is the steepest on the track, and although not the longest day, it can be challenging just in being the first. Tomorrow is the easiest day of the walk!

Day Two/Three (8klm, 2.5-3hrs)
Today we start with a short diversion to take in the waterfalls in the valley before we head off across the undulating button grass plains that will be with us for the rest of the day. This is a leisurely time in which we shake out the strains of the first day and take our time over lunch in a pine grove, at a former prospectors camp near the main track. Weather dependent, we can take a detour to the shores of Lake Will, a beautiful sheltered spot, at the base of Barn Bluff. The (relatively) warm shallows of the lake provide a great place for a swim in fine summer weather. In the afternoon we cross further open country with views of mountain ranges surrounding us before descending to our campsite amongst the Eucalypts near Lake Windermere.

Day Three/Four(17klm, 6.5-7hrs)
Out onto open plains again, we can see the day’s journey ahead and the mountains surrounding Mt. Ossa. We make our way around Mt Pelion West as the track heads down through the forests on the mountainside. We will normally stop for lunch at Frog Flats in a sheltered spot near the headwaters of the Forth River. From here (the lowest point on the track proper), we have an hour or two further up onto the Pelion Plains where our next campsite is located.

Day Four/Five(9klm, 3hrs)
Now well into the heart of the park, today is often a highlight for many. By now routines have been established, ‘cobwebs shaken out’ and we will have restocked from our main supply 'cache' (and replenished our supply of chocolate!). We may need it; for today you will usually have the opportunity for the side-trip to the summit of Mt Ossa and the ‘top of Tasmania’. After climbing to the turnoff at Pelion Pass, we often take lunch before (those wishing to), heading off on thethree to four hour (return) journey. Others can either remain at the pass and enjoy an extended lunch before we re-group for the further hour and a half down to Kia Ora Creek and our camp.

In winter months we will normally plan our extra overnight stay at Pelion. If we haven't been delayed to this point the Pelion area is a great base from which to explore nearby points of interest such as Mt Oakleigh or the old mines in the area. It is also just a good spot to rest before our journey continues. If adverse weather is forecast, we can take the opportunity to attempt a climb to Mt Ossa on day five.

Day Five/Six(10klm, 3-4hrs)
Today, in contrast to yesterday, we enter a world of rainforests and waterfalls. An hour or so after setting out we emerge from the forest briefly at historic Ducane Hut under the impressive spires of Falling Mountain. After a break at the hut we step back into the rainforest and travel parallel to the Mersey River, for a further hour, before finding a lunch spot amongst some of the most impressive waterfalls in the state. From here to Windy Ridge campsite is not far and we can take our time enjoying the scenery (and perhaps a swim) at the falls.

Day Six/Seven(9klm, 3hrs)
You will have noticed a change in the habitat the previous afternoon. From Windy Ridge down onto Lake St. Clair the forests are drier and dominated by majestic stands of Eucalypts and more familiar native species, broken by views of the spires of mountain ranges on either side of the track. We normally reach the lake around mid-day. From here it’s only a 20-minute ferry ride down the lake to Cynthia Bay and the end of our adventure. Before our return there is opportunity for a hot shower (a change of clothes can be sent with the bus) before heading off. The rest of the afternoon involves a 2.5/3 hour trip through the central plateau, past the Great Lake and down to the town of Deloraine, then on to Devonport.

Generally we arrive back into Devonport between 4 and 6pm depending on season and ferry bookings and without unexpected delay's.

Pine Valley Extension All seasons (Two Days):

We include a visit to Pine Valley.This popular side-trip to a base at Pine Valley Hut only takes a few hours from the main track and is well worth the effort. The valley floor is dominated by giant stands of native pine and the side trips from the valley up onto the plateau of The Labyrinth or towards the summit of The Acropolis are a highlight. The side trips are completed over the following two days (weather dependent). Especially in winter, if we didn't see snow earlier in the week, the ridges on either side of the valley can take us up above the snowline once more and afford stunning views back through the park.

Cradle Mountain Circuit (Four Days):

This is a spectacular introduction to Cradle Mountain (and possibly snowshoeing in winter). We spend three nights and a large part of four days exploring the area. Following outfitting at our tour base and our drive up to the mountain, we will head out to explore one of the many walking tracks in the area. We stay in cabins the first night before trekking out to camp near Scott/ Kilvert Memorial Hut, behind Cradle Mountain, the next. On the third day we set off to complete a circuit of the mountain and possibly reach the summit (optional and weather dependent). Although somewhat challenging in heavier snowfalls this walk generally offers a lesser physical commitment than do longer walks (such as The Overland Track) and easier options are available within each days walking.

We keep a certain amount of flexibility in our daily activities. Guides will modify plans to suit group dynamics, weather and seasonal conditions and with foreseeable daily activities in mind. In general, they will wake you with a hot drink by 7.30 am, and prepare breakfast shortly after. With larger groups it can take longer to clear up and pack equipment, however, we are usually on the track by 9/9.30am. This gives everyone ample time to pack, clean up and spend some time either preparing for the day ahead, taking in the scenery, meeting the local wildlife, taking a few photos etc.

During the day we can take many short breaks where you can rest, have a snack, adjust clothing etc. Normally we have a longer period, and find a sheltered or scenic spot to have lunch in the early afternoon, where we have a meal and a hot drink. If the group isn’t planning on side-trips, this break may stretch to an hour or two.

On arrival at our campsite in the late afternoon, the priority is on pitching tents and getting comfortable. After assisting you, the guides prepare group shelters, retrieve food caches and get everything sorted for evening meals. Depending on the season there may be time for a short walk to visit something of interest in the area.

The evening meal is usually ready around 7pm and other activities will largely depend on available light (sunset around 5pm mid-winter/9pm mid-summer), and weather. After dinner and a discussion of the next day’s activities/ options, your time is your own. If you’ve had a big day you may like to have an early night, read a book, take some hot water for a wash etc. One of the guides may point out some of the local wildlife under torchlight, or some are happy to just relax and enjoy each other’s company.

We keep a certain amount of flexibility in our daily activities. Guides will modify plans to suit group dynamics, weather and seasonal conditions and with foreseeable daily activities in mind. In general, they will wake you with a hot drink by 7.30 am, and prepare breakfast shortly after. With larger groups it can take longer to clear up and pack equipment, however, we are usually on the track by 9/9.30am. This gives everyone ample time to pack, clean up and spend some time either preparing for the day ahead, taking in the scenery, meeting the local wildlife, taking a few photos etc.

During the day we can take many short breaks where you can rest, have a snack, adjust clothing etc. Normally we have a longer period, and find a sheltered or scenic spot to have lunch in the early afternoon, where we have a meal and a hot drink. If the group isn’t planning on side-trips, this break may stretch to an hour or two.

On arrival at our campsite in the late afternoon, the priority is on pitching tents and getting comfortable. After assisting you, the guides prepare group shelters, retrieve food caches and get everything sorted for evening meals. Depending on the season there may be time for a short walk to visit something of interest in the area.

The evening meal is usually ready around 7pm and other activities will largely depend on available light (sunset around 5pm mid-winter/9pm mid-summer), and weather. After dinner and a discussion of the next day’s activities/ options, your time is your own. If you’ve had a big day you may like to have an early night, read a book, take some hot water for a wash etc. One of the guides may point out some of the local wildlife under torchlight, or some are happy to just relax and enjoy each other’s company.

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2013/2014

Cradle Mountain/Lake St. Clair NP

Cradle Mountain: (All seasons)

Four-Day Cradle Mountain Circuit

• First/last night cabin accommodation, one night camping
• Two shorter day-walks plus two day's 'pack' walking
• Pack weight 10-12kg
• Departs from Devonport
  
• Leaves base by 10am/Returns late afternoon, final day
• Grade: Easy/Moderate
  Cost - $1175 per person (includes $275 deposit)*

The Overland Track:

Spring (September-October) & Autumn (March- April- May)

Seven-Day Overland Track

• First night cabin accommodation at Cradle Mountain
• Six days walking, five nights camping
• Pack weight around 11-13kg
• Departs from Devonport
• Leaves base by 1pm/Returns early evening, final day
• Grade Easy/Moderate
  Cost - $1995 per person (includes $395 deposit)*

Summer (November-December-January-February)

Six-Day Overland Track

• Six days walking, Five nights camping
• Pack weight around 10-12kg
• Departs from Devonport
• Leaves base by 10am/Returns early evening final day
• Grade Easy/Moderate
  Cost - $1825 per person (includes $325 deposit)*

Winter Snowshoe/Treks (June-July -August)

Eight-Day Overland Track

• First night cabin accommodation at Cradle Mountain
• seven days walking, Six nights camping
• Includes rest/delay day
• Pack weight 12-14kg
• Other departure dates available on demand
• Leaves base by 1pm/Returns late afternoon, final day
• Grade: Moderate/Challenging
  Cost $2225 per person (includes $425 deposit)*

Pine Valley: (All seasons)

Two-Day Pine Valley Explorer (Extension for Overland Track Itinerary)

• Two nights camping
• Additional to any of the above Overland Track options
• Books on demand
• Grade: Easy/Moderate
  Cost $450 per person

*Deposit is a 'booking' deposit. This portion of the total initiates campsite, transport and accommodation reservations and forms part of the tour cost.

Group sizes on overnight walks are kept small, maximum ten (plus guides). Minimum number requirements are also necessary (in order to cover costs). For those travelling alone we can usually find you a place on a tour made up of individuals and/or small groups. This is quite common, just let us know when you prefer to leave and we will see what's available. If, in the case that minimum numbers are not reached, we will offer a close alternative and/or refund deposits in full.

Also, please note:

• Summer tours require campsite reservation and winter treks are mostly booked on demand (so you really do need to book early).
  
• We can almost always return on the planned day, in some (very unlikely) circumstances (severe weather, road closures etc.) we may be delayed. It is recommended that, when considering travel arrangements, you allow sufficient leeway following the tour.
• Minimum age 12 years, those under 16 must be accompanied by adult.
• Deposit/Refund Policy- refer to booking form

• Discounts are available for groups of five or more where one member acts as a 'liaison' for the group. Tours are considered fully booked if eight (or more) join as a group.
• We have greater flexibility when catering for families and private groups. In many cases we can tailor itineraries, menus, equipment options and guide numbers to suit.
• We are happy to organise a trek for managed club and corporate groups and can also provide support for 'team-building' treks.
  

The tour price is comprehensive and includes just about everything you will need from the time we pick you up until you arrive back:

• Assistance with travel arrangements and advice on best options.
• Courtesy bus for local transfers to the tour base.
• A lightweight ‘kit’ of modern, high quality, equipment that will keep you safe, dry, warm and comfortable in all conditions. This includes everything we can possibly supply, the only necessary exceptions being footwear and personal clothing.
  
• Transport to Cradle Mountain (and for the Overland Track, from Lake St. Clair. A
 bag of personal gear can be left at base and/or brought through on the bus if you’d like a quick shower/change of clothes before the drive home. You can also choose to leave us at this stage and catch public transport to Hobart or the West Coast.)
• Cabin accommodation for the first night of 7-10 day tours.
• All permits, necessary insurances, park passes and track fees (as well as fares for the ferry on Lake St. Clair)
• All meals provided and prepared, from morning tea and/or lunch on day one to lunch on the final day.
• At least two experienced guides (who carry group equipment, all meals, communications and safety gear).
• Supply drops (caches) along the tracks to minimize pack weights.
• Support personnel.
• Discounts on hire gear and equipment sales following tours.

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Timber tent platforms are placed to provide a comfortable, private site on which to pitch our tents. Twin share tent accommodation is encouraged in the interests of safety and warmth. For those who have concerns about this (you snore, sleep lightly or just look forward to privacy) we can also provide single person tents. Campsites are positioned in the vicinity of basic public walker's huts that are available in an emergency.

As with tents, the primary concern for the rest of our gear is to keep your pack weight down. This principle is applied to all equipment, starting with the backpacks we supply, through everything you will put in it. With many years of experience we have refined an inventory of gear to be the best option for this particular type of trek. We supply modern, high quality items that we consider best for our purposes. You are welcome to substitute some of your own gear, though please discuss suitability with us first.

The additional personal gear you bring will largely determine the weight you will eventually end up carrying. We do advise you to carefully study the lists below and consider the direction of the leading guide when you are loading your pack at base.

When you look into buying those few personal clothing items you will need to bring with you the best place to start is with a specialist bushwalking/outdoor store. Most of the leading brand gear will be adequate for your purposes and of the quality to last many years beyond this trip. Try everything on, wash garments, wear in boots, learn how to use and care for everything properly and make sure your happy with it before you come.

Summer (We provide-You carry*)
Tent (all-season rating)
Backpack (internal frame)
Mattress (inflatable (70mm thick))
Down Sleeping Bag (three season)
'Sit' Mat (/Matress Protector & Insulator)
Inner-Sheet (silk)
Gore-tex Raincoat
Over-Pants
Head-Torch (LED)
Water Flask
Mess Kit (bowl/plate/cup)
Whistle

* Total Weight 7-8.5kg
*If you wish to substitute anything of your own you are welcome to bring your
gear along and compare- extra items can be stored at tour base (As with any
other excess clothing etc.)

Optional (provided)
Insulated Jacket
Over-Mittens/Thermal Liners
Toilet Roll/s 
Gaiters
Crocs (camp 'clogs')
Biodegradable Soap/Microfibre Towels
Walking Poles

Winter (we add/swap)
Down Sleeping Bag (four season)
Down Vest
Blizzard Mitts
Snowshoes

Group Equipment (guides carry)
Kitchen/Group Shelter
Cooking Gear/Stoves (and food)
Additional Lighting
Trowel/Extra Toilet Paper
Wash Basins
First Aid kits (including sunscreen, repellent etc.)
Satellite Communications
Equipment Repair Kit/Spare Parts

Summer (Minimum to Bring)

Walking boots (above the ankle support, leather preferable)
Socks x 3 pairs (synthetic or wool blend, one can be light ‘liner’ socks,
another kept dry for the evenings)
Pants (or shorts– synthetic fibres best,Not Cotton)
Additional Underwear Two sets of synthetic or wool blend thermal underwear (1 x day use, 1 heavier full length additional/night use (or other warm layering options))
Shirt or T-Shirt (synthetic/wool options better than cotton)
Sunhat (baseball type or legionnaire style fits best under raincoat and with pack)
Warm Hat (beanie)
Toiletries (biodegradable soap provided – no shampoos etc. are recommended)
Personal Medications/Sanitary Items
Camera (compact will get the most use)
Sunglasses (polarised best for snow)
Book (small)

Winter (Add)

Additional Heavyweight Thermal Underwear and some form of
Thermal Pants for evening use
Balaclava (optional)

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