Tasmania - Australia 2004 - page 633

Hiking the Overland Track Finds

The most well-known hiking trail in Australia is the Overland Track ,
an 85km (53-mile) route between Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair. The
trek takes from 5 to 10 days and goes through high alpine plateaus, but-
ton grass plains, heathland, and rainforests, and passes glacial lakes, ice-
carved crags, and waterfalls. The trek gives you a good look at the beauty
of Tasmania's pristine wilderness, and although the first day is quite
tough, you soon get into the rhythm. After climbing to Pelion Gap, the
track gradually descends southwards toward the towering myrtle forests
on the shores of Lake St. Clair. There are many rewarding side trips,
including the 1-day ascent of Mt. Ossa (1,617m/5,304 ft.), Tasmania's
highest peak.
Several companies offer guided walks of the Overland Track from
October through April, although simple public huts, on a first-come,
first-served basis, and camping areas are available for those who wish
to do it solo. Every summer up to 200 people a day start the trek. Most
trekking companies employ at least two guides who carry tents and
cooking gear, while you carry your sleeping bag, lunch, and personal
belongings. Wet-weather gear is essential as heavy downpours can be
frequent, and make sure your boots are well worn in to avoid blisters.
Tasmanian Expeditions ( & 1800/030 230 in Australia, or 03/6334 3477;
www.tas.ex.com) offers 3-day walking tours around Cradle Mountain,
staying at Waldheim Cabins. The tours depart from Launceston and cost
A$595 (US$387), all-inclusive. Trips leave every Sunday and Wednesday
between November and April, with extra trips from Christmas to the end
of January. The company also offers a full 8-day trek on the Overland
Track for A$1,395 (US$906), all-inclusive, from Launceston (wet-weather
gear costs A$55/US$36 extra to rent). These trips depart every Saturday
between November and April, with extra trips from late December to the
end of January. Another trip, a 6-day Cradle Mountain and Walls of
Jerusalem National Park trip, includes 3 nights of wilderness camping and
3 nights in a cabin. It costs A$1,170 (US$760) and leaves every Sunday
between October and April. Many people have reported this trek to be
the highlight of their trip to Australia.
Craclair Tours ( & and fax [phone]; www.craclairtours.com.au)
also offers a quality 8-day Overland Track tour, including 5 nights of
camping, between October and mid-April (leaving every Sun and Wed)
for A$1,440 (US$705).
For an organized trek in this area, I recommend Cradle Mountain
Huts, P.O. Box 1879, Launceston, TAS 7250 ( & 03/6331 2006; fax 03/6331
5525; [e-mail]). Six-day walks cost A$1,895 (US$1,231); rates
are all-inclusive and include transfers to and from Launceston. Children
under 12 are not permitted. The huts are fully equipped, heated, and
quite comfortable, with showers, a main living area, and a full kitchen.
You get a good three-course meal every night. The treks leave every day
between Christmas Day and early February, and around five times a
week between November and April.