Hiking the Overland Track - Warwick Sprawson

Experience the wild heart of Tasmania, Australia’s island-state off the south-east coast, as you trek the legendary Overland Track from Ronny Creek in Cradle Valley to Cynthia Bay on Lake St Clair. This iconic 80km (50-mile) journey traverses glacier-carved valleys, mossy rainforests, rugged peaks, and sweeping moorlands in the heart of Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. Ideal for hikers of average fitness as well as those seeking adventure in Tasmania’s remote wilderness, this comprehensive Cicerone guidebook covers the entire Overland Track in 7 clearly defined stages, each ranging from 8 to 17km (5–11 miles) and typically completed over 5 to 9 days. For experienced trekkers looking for an extra challenge, optional sidetrips to dramatic summits like Mt Ossa and wilderness areas such as The Labyrinth add further excitement, making the Overland Track a truly rewarding journey for every walker. Discover the wild beauty of Tasmania, Australia’s island-state off the south-east coast, as you explore the celebrated Overland Track through Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. Experience iconic landscapes, from the buttongrass plains of Pelion and forests below Mt Oakleigh to the waterfalls of Du Cane and the tranquil shores of Lake St Clair. Each stage of the Overland Track is clearly described with distance, ascent/descent, grade, walking time, and maximum altitude, plus at-a-glance information boxes and available sidetrips, making it easy to plan every day, whether you seek a steady walk or a challenging adventure. 1:50,000 mapping for every stage highlights key route features, including huts, campsites, and facilities, for straightforward navigation and comfort along the Overland Track. The Overland Track is best enjoyed in the southern summer (December to February), when long days and blooming wildflowers create ideal trekking conditions. Covers essential planning, permits, fitness, equipment, food and water, travel, safety, and accommodation at the start, end, and along the track, as well as expert guidance on unique Tasmanian wildlife and plants, everything you need to prepare for and hike the Overland Track from start to finish. Practical advice is included for hiking with kids, choosing your direction, and condensing your Overland trek into fewer days for those with limited time. Plan your adventure on Tasmania’s Overland Track with the definitive Cicerone guidebook and discover one of the world’s great walks, where every stage unveils a new wilderness and the spirit of discovery leads you through rainforests, across alpine plateaus, and along the legendary spine of Tasmania.