The Overland Track is approximately 65km point-to-point, typically completed over 6 days with 1,461m of cumulative elevation gain.
Severe alpine weather, including strong winds and snowfall, can occur year-round regardless of the season.
During the October–May booking season, hikers must travel in a southbound direction and reserve departure slots via the official booking system.
Overview
Technical Summary
The Overland Track is a 65km point-to-point alpine traverse through the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Running from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair, the route passes through dramatic glaciated valleys, ancient rainforests, and high moorlands.
Ancient Alpine Ecosystems. The track serves as a significant traverse through ecosystems that have remained largely unchanged for millions of years. Hikers move through diverse biomes, from button grass plains to high-altitude tarns and vertical dolerite columns over a 6-day period, ending at Australia's deepest freshwater lake.
Hazard Assessment
Rapid weather transitions can generate blizzard conditions and strong winds at any time of year on the Cradle Plateau and Pelion Gap.
Boardwalk sections can be slippery when wet, while forested sectors in the Du Cane range often feature exposed roots and deep mud.
The spread of Phytophthora cinnamomi (root rot) is a threat to the park's endemic flora.
The Expert Take
Success on this route requires balancing physical stamina with environmental awareness.Local conditions shift rapidly; always verify forecasts with regional authorities before moving to higher ground.
Stage Breakdowns
Cradle Plateau Sector
Ascent from Ronny Creek via Marion's Lookout to the alpine plateau. High ratio of boardwalk transitioning to rocky terrain. Average daily distance: 10–12 km.
Pelion Plains and High Ridges
Descent into the Pelion Gap. Movement through montane rainforest toward the Mount Ossa massif. Average daily distance: 10–12 km.
Lakeside Descent
Transit through the forest systems of the Du Cane Range. Final arrival at Narcissus for the Lake St Clair ferry. Average daily distance: 10–12 km.
Route
Geometry
Topographical Data & Reference Points
- Route Typehiking
- Highest Point1250m (High Variant)1250m
- Standard Transit Max1188m (Approx)
- Lowest Pointvalley floor elevation730m
- GPS Location41.6360°S 145.9490°E
Technical Profile
Vertical Ascent Profile
An undulating alpine traverse across Tasmania's central highlands. The main path follows a high-altitude axis around 1,200–1,250 meters. The initial ascent from Ronny Creek to the plateau is the most sustained vertical gain.
Terrain Characteristics
The Overland Track is primarily non-technical (Class 1), with optional technical variants. It is classified as Technical terrain based on cumulative vert and exposure.
The cumulative energy expenditure for Overland Track represents a significant physical commitment. Success requires adequate preparation and moisture management.
Data referenced from regional park authority sources and topographic surveys.
Technical
Matrix Profile
The HikeMetrics Global Matrix provides an objective, multi-dimensional assessment of technical difficulty, exposure risk, and environmental load.
Risk Summary
Professional evaluation of route mechanics and environmental stress factors. Recommended for participants within specified technical scope.
This profile uses the HikeMetrics v1.0 risk matrix, prioritizing environmental stress and movement complexity over simple elevation metrics.
Technical Specs
Access & Logistics
Regulations
Bookings occupy a specific daily departure slot. Southbound movement is mandatory during the regulated season (October to May).
Seasonality
The regulated booking season operates from October 1 to May 31. During this window, hikers must purchase a track fee and have a valid Tasmania Parks Pass.
Safety Index
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Cross-Reference Analysis
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Next Operational Phase
Get Field Ready
Logistics & Permits
Verify all permit requirements and regional park access rules. High-season routes often require advance coordination for logistics.
View Requirements Protocol 02Field Preparation
Ensure equipment matches the technical demands of the specific terrain. Check current trail reports and humidity/wind variables.
View LoadoutExplore Similar Journeys
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Direct Comparison
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Core Concepts
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Topic grouping based on geography, physical exertion profile, and technical movement typology.
Route Questions
Is there a ferry from Narcissus?
Yes. A ferry service operates across Lake St Clair from Narcissus to Cynthia Bay. Pre-booking this service is required to ensure transport at the end of the walk.
What are the permit requirements?
During the peak season (Oct-May), a specialized Overland Track booking is mandatory. Throughout the year, all visitors must also possess a valid Tasmania National Parks Pass.
Dossier Verification & Sync
Data points indexed in this dossier are cross-referenced against authoritative land management records and regional mapping. HikeMetrics maintains independent verification protocols for all primary route geometry.