Frommer's Australia from $50 a Day 13th Edition - To Parent Directory

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CHAPTER 14 . TASMANIA
Moments
Hiking the Overland Track
The best-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,
button 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 (wetweather
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 (&/fax 03/6424 7833; 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; cradle@tassie.net.au). 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.