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OVERVIEW

Hike and explore Tasmania's Tarkine wilderness, the largest area of unbroken, cool-temperate rainforest remaining in the Southern Hemisphere. This 65-million-year-old forest houses hidden gems and ancient relics including tree species that exist elsewhere only as fossils. Witness the region's beauty, which includes mountains, wild rivers, and a sublime coastline with its ferocious oceans and iconic open plains.  

Spend an extra full day at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park (compared to the 5 day trip), renowned for its glacier-sculpted mountain peaks, river gorges and icy streams cascading down rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and wild alpine moorland. Get up close and personal to Cradle Mountain by walking a part of the iconic Overland Track, the Cradle Mountain Face Track and Dove Lake.

On this 6-day journey, remain immersed in the quiet wilderness with accommodations located right on the edge of these majestic parks. With every detail taken care of by two experienced guides who provide options to shorten the walks should you wish, you can relax and enjoy this stunning adventure. 

Highlights

  • The Tarkine, reputed to produce some of the world's freshest air
  • Beautiful Philiosphers Falls with its towering myrtle and sassafras trees
  • Pieman and Whyte rivers – look out for a platypus!
  • The spectacular view from the summit of Mt Donaldson
  • Pieman River cruise with fascinating historical commentary
  • Plenty of time to explore the fabulous walking tracks and rich wildlife of Cradle Mountain National Park
  • A stunning walk into Dove Canyon and the face Track brandishing the best of Tasmania's sub-alpine scenery

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 3695

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 355

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
LAUNCESTON VIA PHILOSOPHERS FALLS TO THE TARKINE

This holiday commences in Launceston at 8.00 am. From here, we will travel through Burnie on our way to the Tarkine. Half of this region is rainforest, with the remainder being eucalypt forest, heathland, button grass and rivers. The Tarkine, reputed to produce some of the world’s freshest air, is so vastly inaccessible it takes a solid walk before you find the pure Sassafras rainforest, tree ferns and Myrtle trees, some of which are over half a millennia old. We’ll enjoy lunch amidst some of Tasmania’s oldest forest environments before undertaking the last of the Tarkine walks for day one. We’re walking at the beautiful Philosophers Falls, this time amidst the stunning towering Myrtle and Sassafras.

Walking: Easy / 4 km / 2 hrs

Meals: Lunch and two course a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Corinna Wilderness Lodge in a private room but shared cabin and bathroom

DAY 2
WHYTE RIVER AND MNT DONALDSON WALKS IN THE TARKINE

Today we will get truly in tune with our surroundings as we set off following the narrow Whyte River forest track as it meanders beside the Pieman and Whyte Rivers. We may even encounter a platypus out feeding in the river if we’re lucky. Next, it’s on to the Mt Donaldson walk. The ascent should take us right up to lunch which will be enjoyed at the summit whilst taking in a spectacular view into the heart of the Tarkine. We will make our way back down to explore another of the Tarkine walks, a section of giant Myrtle trees along the banks of the Savage River. You will feel as though you’re wandering around on the set of ‘Lord of the Rings’ on these Tarkine wilderness walks.

Walking: Moderate / 16 km / 6-7 hrs / easier 10 km option available

Meals: Provisions for a cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and two-course a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Corinna Wilderness Lodge in a private room but shared cabin and bathroom

DAY 3
PIEMAN RIVER CRUISE AND WALK NEAR THE COAST IN THE TARKINE

This morning we will take the historic Huon Pine Launch, Arcadia II, from Corinna down the Pieman River to the Pieman Heads, the last of our tarkine wilderness walks. The skipper will give very interesting commentary covering the history of Huon Pine harvesting, mining and thylacine before we disembark at the heads. The walking today is along the coast on beach and dunes. We will be treated to coastal flora and much evidence of indigenous middens.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 10-12 km / 4-5 hrs

Meals: Provisions for a cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and two-course a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Corinna Wilderness Lodge in a private room but shared cabin and bathroom

DAY 4
DOVE LAKE AT CRADLE MOUNTAIN

This morning, we will board the Fatman Barge to cross the mighty Pieman River as we make our way to Cradle Mountain National Park. Arriving mid-morning, we will head straight to our first walk, a combination of our favourite tracks, including the Dove Lake Circuit. This park also provides a rich habitat for wildlife, including Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna, pademelons, wombats and several bird species – so be on the lookout

Walking: Moderate / 8 km / 4-5 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and a two-course a la carte dinner at the resort restaurant

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Hotel in an ensuite room

DAY 5
MARION'S LOOKOUT, HANSON'S PEAK AND THE FACE TRACK LOOP

Today, we have time to relax a little before setting off to explore the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and taking on the challenges of Hanson’s Peak, Marion’s Lookout, and the Face Track loop. You will enjoy magnificent views over the valley out to the east as you hike. You will get right up close to the ‘Cradle’ at Kitchen Hut on the walk. On the way back, we walk via Lake Wilks and enjoy the views to the East over the Walls of Jerusalem. We can shorten this walk if need be.

Walking: Moderate / 12 km / 5-6 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and a two-course a la carte dinner at the resort restaurant

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Hotel in an ensuite room

 

DAY 6
DOVE CANYON AT CRADLE MOUNTAIN AND BACK TO LAUNCESTON

We start our final day in the Cradle Valley on a simply stunning three-hour walk into Dove Canyon. This encapsulates the variety of landscapes you would expect to find in the Tasmanian sub-alpine environment. Rest assured, there will be shorter and less strenuous walk options available today. We will leave Cradle Mountain around midday to make our way back to Launceston, stopping en route for lunch. Expect to get back to Launceston at approximately 4.30pm.

Walking: Moderate to Hard / 6 km / 3 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and a walkers lunch

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Genuine all-inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 2 engaging, knowledgeable and experienced guides
  • 3 nights in comfortable accommodation at Corrina
  • 2 nights at the 4-star Cradle Mountain Hotel
  • All transport from Launceston, including luggage transport
  • Cooked breakfasts each morning and two-course dinners in the evening
    (breakfast provisions will be provided on 3 mornings for you to cook in your cabin)
  • Comprehensive walker lunches augmented by Auswalk’s trail mix
  • National Park admission, Auswalk guide pack including notes, maps, insulated lunch bag and container

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

For the first three nights at Corinna, we have private rooms but shared bathroom facilities in 2 bedroom cabins.  We can provide single rooms at Corinna. However, there may be some differences in what is provided; the rooms are assigned on a first-come, first serve basis. On our last two nights, we stay at 4-star Cradle Mountain Hotel right up against the park, in rooms with ensuites. The accommodations are all in beautiful locations, providing a further opportunity to walk and explore, but are also great places to just sit and relax and take everything in.

All the two course dinners are prepared by professional chefs in the accommodation restaurants. Enjoy some of the best local produce this country has to offer, with an emphasis on Tasmanian local produce. Start each day with a substantial cooked breakfast to ready yourself for the upcoming walk.

The packed lunches and picnics complete the circle, ensuring your appetite is always satisfied. A walker’s lunch may include a high protein type salad, a roll or a wrap, a muesli bar, a piece of cake or a muffin and a piece of fruit. Each day is slightly different. Lunch is always augmented by Auswalk’s trail mix. You can look forward to having lunch on a daily basis at some of the most beautiful remote locations in Tasmania.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4 & 5

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ~AVERAGE

Elevation training should be a consideration in your overall training program.

Try to include some form of elevation in more than 40% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

GENERAL INFO

Tracks range from well-cared-for to less kempt, but they are all easily passable and are mostly dry and firm this time of year. However, on the odd occasion we have encountered wet portions of track. Most of the walks are easy to moderate. The easier alternative walks are great for first timers. Some walks involve challenging walking of between 5 to 7 hours each day with some steep ascents and descents, so the experienced hikers won’t be disappointed.

This trip operates with two professional and experienced guides, knowledgeable of the area and natural surroundings, including the local fauna, flora and history. Thus easier and more challenging options will be offered each day.

Pre and post tour accommodation: There are many good hotels in Launceston, however we pick up and drop off from one central hotel. The tour starts at 8.00am at the  Quality Hotel Colonial, 31 Elizabeth St in Launceston. Expect to get back to Launceston at approximately 4.30pm.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

Tasmania is best for walking in the warmer months, between November and April.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 13 Mar 2025
    FULL
    from

    $3695

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $355
    BOOK NOW
  • 21 Apr 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3695

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $355
    BOOK NOW
  • 7 Oct 2025
    FULL
    from

    $3695

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $355
    BOOK NOW
  • 16 Feb 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3895

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $385
    BOOK NOW
  • 3 Mar 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3895

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $385
    BOOK NOW

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

Leave a Reply

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  1. AnnaA

    27 December, 2024 at 12:42 PM
    5

    Kathleen & David did a fantastic job looking after us all and matched the walks to our capabilities, they went above & beyond their role as guides & our group of 12 randoms + guides all gelled together well making it a fun & action packed adventure.

    Reply

  2. Anna F

    26 December, 2024 at 5:39 PM
    5

    Fabulous variety of places and beautifully timed walks, sights, and refreshing repasts! Our walking guides Kathleen and David were just marvelous. They shared such an amazing combination of fascinating knowledge about the places we were walking and discovering, creative ways of enjoying it all, music and fun. Oh, and some beautiful yoga! We all felt so nurtured by the care and quality of the K & D’s company, but also a freedom to be ourselves and learn. Both body and mind felt so much stronger afterwards. I loved it, it was quite life changing!

    Reply

  3. April G

    20 December, 2024 at 12:28 PM
    5

    The guides were superb. Clear explanations and instructions. Kathleen was terrific, ensuring I was adequately fed (understatement!) on a vegan diet. I especially appreciated David’s botanical knowledge. I was enthralled with the Tasmanian forests and subalpine areas, and learned a lot.

    Reply

  4. Margaret P

    16 December, 2024 at 12:21 PM
    5

    I was a little concerned that we would spend too much time being transported and less time walking. This was definitely not the case, as time on the bus was broken up regularly with info stops and great walking opportunities. And the mix of rainforest, open forest and coastal walks worked really well. Our guides, David and Kathleen were amazing guides, making sure we were safe, but also that we experienced the max possible. Whilst also sharing with us an incredible amount of information about the environment we travelled through

    Reply

  5. Jillian B

    10 December, 2024 at 12:25 PM
    5

    I didn’t know what to expect coming into this trip. The detail and care that went into it from the team to make it wonderful for all was superb. The guides were inclusive and welcoming to all. AUSWALK ensured there was sufficient information provided prior to departure. The guides were very knowledgeable, kind and enthusiastic. They were a large part of the reason the trip was so wonderful! Thank you all!

    Reply

  6. Margaret D

    4 December, 2024 at 4:10 PM
    5

    Tarkine trip. Good variety – beach walks, river cruises, rainforest, mountains….. Interesting commentary as we travelled re industries and other aspects of the area that we travelled through. David and Kathleen Heap were excellent guides. Nothing was too much trouble in terms of ensuing we enjoyed our trip. They were well organised and very attentive to everyone’s needs e.g. food intolerances etc. They kept us fully informed of what was happening next (where we were going, meeting times etc). Selected walks were well chosen, and provided a variety of features. They were very knowledgeable about the vegetation we were passing through and passed this knowledge on to us. Not a negative comment, but maybe they could also include something basic on the bird life for those of us not familiar with Tasmanian birds (although the guides were always happy to answer any questions).

    Reply

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Overview

OVERVIEW

Hike and explore Tasmania's Tarkine wilderness, the largest area of unbroken, cool-temperate rainforest remaining in the Southern Hemisphere. This 65-million-year-old forest houses hidden gems and ancient relics including tree species that exist elsewhere only as fossils. Witness the region's beauty, which includes mountains, wild rivers, and a sublime coastline with its ferocious oceans and iconic open plains.  

Spend an extra full day at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park (compared to the 5 day trip), renowned for its glacier-sculpted mountain peaks, river gorges and icy streams cascading down rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and wild alpine moorland. Get up close and personal to Cradle Mountain by walking a part of the iconic Overland Track, the Cradle Mountain Face Track and Dove Lake.

On this 6-day journey, remain immersed in the quiet wilderness with accommodations located right on the edge of these majestic parks. With every detail taken care of by two experienced guides who provide options to shorten the walks should you wish, you can relax and enjoy this stunning adventure. 

Highlights

  • The Tarkine, reputed to produce some of the world's freshest air
  • Beautiful Philiosphers Falls with its towering myrtle and sassafras trees
  • Pieman and Whyte rivers – look out for a platypus!
  • The spectacular view from the summit of Mt Donaldson
  • Pieman River cruise with fascinating historical commentary
  • Plenty of time to explore the fabulous walking tracks and rich wildlife of Cradle Mountain National Park
  • A stunning walk into Dove Canyon and the face Track brandishing the best of Tasmania's sub-alpine scenery

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 3695

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 355

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
LAUNCESTON VIA PHILOSOPHERS FALLS TO THE TARKINE

This holiday commences in Launceston at 8.00 am. From here, we will travel through Burnie on our way to the Tarkine. Half of this region is rainforest, with the remainder being eucalypt forest, heathland, button grass and rivers. The Tarkine, reputed to produce some of the world’s freshest air, is so vastly inaccessible it takes a solid walk before you find the pure Sassafras rainforest, tree ferns and Myrtle trees, some of which are over half a millennia old. We’ll enjoy lunch amidst some of Tasmania’s oldest forest environments before undertaking the last of the Tarkine walks for day one. We’re walking at the beautiful Philosophers Falls, this time amidst the stunning towering Myrtle and Sassafras.

Walking: Easy / 4 km / 2 hrs

Meals: Lunch and two course a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Corinna Wilderness Lodge in a private room but shared cabin and bathroom

DAY 2
WHYTE RIVER AND MNT DONALDSON WALKS IN THE TARKINE

Today we will get truly in tune with our surroundings as we set off following the narrow Whyte River forest track as it meanders beside the Pieman and Whyte Rivers. We may even encounter a platypus out feeding in the river if we’re lucky. Next, it’s on to the Mt Donaldson walk. The ascent should take us right up to lunch which will be enjoyed at the summit whilst taking in a spectacular view into the heart of the Tarkine. We will make our way back down to explore another of the Tarkine walks, a section of giant Myrtle trees along the banks of the Savage River. You will feel as though you’re wandering around on the set of ‘Lord of the Rings’ on these Tarkine wilderness walks.

Walking: Moderate / 16 km / 6-7 hrs / easier 10 km option available

Meals: Provisions for a cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and two-course a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Corinna Wilderness Lodge in a private room but shared cabin and bathroom

DAY 3
PIEMAN RIVER CRUISE AND WALK NEAR THE COAST IN THE TARKINE

This morning we will take the historic Huon Pine Launch, Arcadia II, from Corinna down the Pieman River to the Pieman Heads, the last of our tarkine wilderness walks. The skipper will give very interesting commentary covering the history of Huon Pine harvesting, mining and thylacine before we disembark at the heads. The walking today is along the coast on beach and dunes. We will be treated to coastal flora and much evidence of indigenous middens.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 10-12 km / 4-5 hrs

Meals: Provisions for a cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and two-course a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Corinna Wilderness Lodge in a private room but shared cabin and bathroom

DAY 4
DOVE LAKE AT CRADLE MOUNTAIN

This morning, we will board the Fatman Barge to cross the mighty Pieman River as we make our way to Cradle Mountain National Park. Arriving mid-morning, we will head straight to our first walk, a combination of our favourite tracks, including the Dove Lake Circuit. This park also provides a rich habitat for wildlife, including Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna, pademelons, wombats and several bird species – so be on the lookout

Walking: Moderate / 8 km / 4-5 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and a two-course a la carte dinner at the resort restaurant

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Hotel in an ensuite room

DAY 5
MARION'S LOOKOUT, HANSON'S PEAK AND THE FACE TRACK LOOP

Today, we have time to relax a little before setting off to explore the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and taking on the challenges of Hanson’s Peak, Marion’s Lookout, and the Face Track loop. You will enjoy magnificent views over the valley out to the east as you hike. You will get right up close to the ‘Cradle’ at Kitchen Hut on the walk. On the way back, we walk via Lake Wilks and enjoy the views to the East over the Walls of Jerusalem. We can shorten this walk if need be.

Walking: Moderate / 12 km / 5-6 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch and a two-course a la carte dinner at the resort restaurant

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Hotel in an ensuite room

 

DAY 6
DOVE CANYON AT CRADLE MOUNTAIN AND BACK TO LAUNCESTON

We start our final day in the Cradle Valley on a simply stunning three-hour walk into Dove Canyon. This encapsulates the variety of landscapes you would expect to find in the Tasmanian sub-alpine environment. Rest assured, there will be shorter and less strenuous walk options available today. We will leave Cradle Mountain around midday to make our way back to Launceston, stopping en route for lunch. Expect to get back to Launceston at approximately 4.30pm.

Walking: Moderate to Hard / 6 km / 3 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and a walkers lunch

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Genuine all-inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 2 engaging, knowledgeable and experienced guides
  • 3 nights in comfortable accommodation at Corrina
  • 2 nights at the 4-star Cradle Mountain Hotel
  • All transport from Launceston, including luggage transport
  • Cooked breakfasts each morning and two-course dinners in the evening
    (breakfast provisions will be provided on 3 mornings for you to cook in your cabin)
  • Comprehensive walker lunches augmented by Auswalk’s trail mix
  • National Park admission, Auswalk guide pack including notes, maps, insulated lunch bag and container
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

For the first three nights at Corinna, we have private rooms but shared bathroom facilities in 2 bedroom cabins.  We can provide single rooms at Corinna. However, there may be some differences in what is provided; the rooms are assigned on a first-come, first serve basis. On our last two nights, we stay at 4-star Cradle Mountain Hotel right up against the park, in rooms with ensuites. The accommodations are all in beautiful locations, providing a further opportunity to walk and explore, but are also great places to just sit and relax and take everything in.

All the two course dinners are prepared by professional chefs in the accommodation restaurants. Enjoy some of the best local produce this country has to offer, with an emphasis on Tasmanian local produce. Start each day with a substantial cooked breakfast to ready yourself for the upcoming walk.

The packed lunches and picnics complete the circle, ensuring your appetite is always satisfied. A walker’s lunch may include a high protein type salad, a roll or a wrap, a muesli bar, a piece of cake or a muffin and a piece of fruit. Each day is slightly different. Lunch is always augmented by Auswalk’s trail mix. You can look forward to having lunch on a daily basis at some of the most beautiful remote locations in Tasmania.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4 & 5

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ~AVERAGE

Elevation training should be a consideration in your overall training program.

Try to include some form of elevation in more than 40% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

Tracks range from well-cared-for to less kempt, but they are all easily passable and are mostly dry and firm this time of year. However, on the odd occasion we have encountered wet portions of track. Most of the walks are easy to moderate. The easier alternative walks are great for first timers. Some walks involve challenging walking of between 5 to 7 hours each day with some steep ascents and descents, so the experienced hikers won’t be disappointed.

This trip operates with two professional and experienced guides, knowledgeable of the area and natural surroundings, including the local fauna, flora and history. Thus easier and more challenging options will be offered each day.

Pre and post tour accommodation: There are many good hotels in Launceston, however we pick up and drop off from one central hotel. The tour starts at 8.00am at the  Quality Hotel Colonial, 31 Elizabeth St in Launceston. Expect to get back to Launceston at approximately 4.30pm.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

Tasmania is best for walking in the warmer months, between November and April.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 13 Mar 2025
    FULL
    Details
    from

    $3695

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $355
    BOOK NOW
  • 21 Apr 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3695

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $355
    BOOK NOW
  • 7 Oct 2025
    FULL
    Details
    from

    $3695

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $355
    BOOK NOW
  • 16 Feb 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3895

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $385
    BOOK NOW
  • 3 Mar 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3895

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $385
    BOOK NOW
Reviews

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. AnnaA

    27 December, 2024 at 12:42 PM
    5

    Kathleen & David did a fantastic job looking after us all and matched the walks to our capabilities, they went above & beyond their role as guides & our group of 12 randoms + guides all gelled together well making it a fun & action packed adventure.

    Reply

  2. Anna F

    26 December, 2024 at 5:39 PM
    5

    Fabulous variety of places and beautifully timed walks, sights, and refreshing repasts! Our walking guides Kathleen and David were just marvelous. They shared such an amazing combination of fascinating knowledge about the places we were walking and discovering, creative ways of enjoying it all, music and fun. Oh, and some beautiful yoga! We all felt so nurtured by the care and quality of the K & D’s company, but also a freedom to be ourselves and learn. Both body and mind felt so much stronger afterwards. I loved it, it was quite life changing!

    Reply

  3. April G

    20 December, 2024 at 12:28 PM
    5

    The guides were superb. Clear explanations and instructions. Kathleen was terrific, ensuring I was adequately fed (understatement!) on a vegan diet. I especially appreciated David’s botanical knowledge. I was enthralled with the Tasmanian forests and subalpine areas, and learned a lot.

    Reply

  4. Margaret P

    16 December, 2024 at 12:21 PM
    5

    I was a little concerned that we would spend too much time being transported and less time walking. This was definitely not the case, as time on the bus was broken up regularly with info stops and great walking opportunities. And the mix of rainforest, open forest and coastal walks worked really well. Our guides, David and Kathleen were amazing guides, making sure we were safe, but also that we experienced the max possible. Whilst also sharing with us an incredible amount of information about the environment we travelled through

    Reply

  5. Jillian B

    10 December, 2024 at 12:25 PM
    5

    I didn’t know what to expect coming into this trip. The detail and care that went into it from the team to make it wonderful for all was superb. The guides were inclusive and welcoming to all. AUSWALK ensured there was sufficient information provided prior to departure. The guides were very knowledgeable, kind and enthusiastic. They were a large part of the reason the trip was so wonderful! Thank you all!

    Reply

  6. Margaret D

    4 December, 2024 at 4:10 PM
    5

    Tarkine trip. Good variety – beach walks, river cruises, rainforest, mountains….. Interesting commentary as we travelled re industries and other aspects of the area that we travelled through. David and Kathleen Heap were excellent guides. Nothing was too much trouble in terms of ensuing we enjoyed our trip. They were well organised and very attentive to everyone’s needs e.g. food intolerances etc. They kept us fully informed of what was happening next (where we were going, meeting times etc). Selected walks were well chosen, and provided a variety of features. They were very knowledgeable about the vegetation we were passing through and passed this knowledge on to us. Not a negative comment, but maybe they could also include something basic on the bird life for those of us not familiar with Tasmanian birds (although the guides were always happy to answer any questions).

    Reply
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