Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Mt Field National Park
Discover the diverse beauty of Mt Field National Park with Tassie Tours. From lush rainforests to alpine moorlands, explore stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and hidden gems. Book your adventure today!
June 2024 • Mt Field
What Makes Mt Field National Park a Must-Visit Destination?
Mt Field National Park, established in 1916, is one of Tasmania's oldest and most diverse national parks. Located just over an hour's drive from Hobart, it offers a stunning array of natural beauty, from lush rainforests to alpine moorlands.
The park is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, which is one of only two sites worldwide that meet seven out of the ten criteria for UNESCO World Heritage status.
This makes it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The park is home to the famous Russell Falls, a tiered cascade that is easily accessible via a short, scenic walk. This waterfall is one of Tasmania's most photographed natural attractions and is a must-see for any visitor.
The park also features the Tall Trees Walk, where you can marvel at some of the tallest eucalypts in the world. For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, the hike to Lake Dobson offers breathtaking views and a chance to see the park's unique alpine flora.
How Can You Experience the Best of Mt Field in a Day?
A day trip to Mt Field National Park can be packed with activities. Start your adventure with a visit to Russell Falls, then take the Tall Trees Walk to marvel at the towering swamp gums and other species typical of wet forests. The walk to Russell Falls is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities.
For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, the hike to Lake Dobson offers breathtaking views and a chance to see the park's unique alpine flora. The Tarn Shelf walk is another highlight, featuring a series of picturesque glacial lakes.
This longer circuit walk takes you across the Tarn Shelf, returning via the lower lakes, and is often frozen in winter, adding to its charm.
Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's many scenic spots. The park has well-equipped picnic areas with electric barbecues, making it easy to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
What Wildlife Can You Expect to See?
Mt Field National Park is a wildlife enthusiast's dream. The park is home to a variety of animals, including the elusive platypus, echidnas, and a range of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for the park's resident wombats and wallabies, especially around dusk when they are most active.
Bird watchers will be delighted by the chance to spot the endangered forty-spotted pardalote and the striking yellow-tailed black cockatoo.
The park also has a large diversity of flora, with numerous types of plants and fungi. The Tall Trees Walk is particularly notable for its towering eucalypts, some of the tallest flowering plants in the world. The park's alpine areas are home to unique vegetation, including ancient Pencil Pines and other species adapted to the harsh conditions.
When is the Best Time to Visit Mt Field?
While Mt Field National Park is beautiful year-round, each season offers a unique experience.
- Spring and summer are ideal for wildflower enthusiasts, with the park's meadows bursting into bloom.
- Autumn brings a stunning display of fall foliage, particularly around Lake Dobson. The hillsides of the Tarn Shelf are a riot of colour as the fagus turns gold, orange, and red.
- Winter transforms the higher elevations into a snowy wonderland, perfect for those looking to experience Tasmania's alpine environment. The park's ski field, Mount Mawson, offers downhill skiing from mid-July to mid-September, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
How Can You Make the Most of Your Visit?
To truly make the most of your visit to Mt Field National Park, consider joining a guided tour. At Tassie Tours, we offer tailored experiences that ensure you see the best the park has to offer.
Our knowledgeable guides will take you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and provide insights into the park's history and ecology. Whether you're interested in a leisurely walk to Russell Falls or a challenging hike to the Tarn Shelf, we can create an itinerary that suits your interests and fitness level.
For those with limited mobility, the park offers a TrailRider (all-terrain wheelchair) that can be used on a range of designated walking tracks. This service is available for hire free of charge, but advanced bookings are required.
Ready to explore Mt Field National Park? Book your tour with Tassie Tours today and embark on an unforgettable adventure!