The Overland Track crosses Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park through glacial valleys, rainforest, buttongrass and exposed alpine country. Parks Tasmania grades it as a 65-kilometre, six-day, one-way Grade 4 walk.
Book the departure, then solve transport
During the 1 October to 31 May booking season, independent walkers depart north to south on a booked date. The booking does not include transport to the trailhead, transport from Lake St Clair or the privately operated Narcissus ferry. Arrange every link before walking.
Carry shelter even when huts exist
Hut space is not guaranteed and weather or injury can prevent reaching the next hut. Carry a tent, sleeping system, fuel stove, food, navigation and equipment for snow, rain, wind and cold in any month.
Side trips change the risk
Mount Ossa and other side routes add exposure, navigation and time. Decide from actual weather, fitness and daylight, not from an itinerary promise. Register in logbooks and carry a personal locator beacon.
Clean equipment for biosecurity and stay on formed tracks. The Cradle Mountain guide covers the northern park area, while Derwent Bridge is the nearest service settlement to Lake St Clair.