Independent walker
This is how the majority of Overland Track walkers undertake the journey. You are completely self-sufficient, and you have the choice of staying in the public huts or camping on the independent walker tent platforms – or a mix of both. Either way, you must still carry a tent in case you don’t reach the next hut or the huts are fully occupied. You may also stay more than one night at any of the huts, or skip a hut.
Guided walks
Several private companies operating in Tasmania offer a guided walk experience and catering. Accommodation options vary from camping in tents on the public group tent platforms to staying in private huts.
Walking with children
The Overland Track can be a wonderful, formative experience for children, but the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service do not recommend the walk for children under 8 years of age. Children aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Most children love the Overland Track experience, but they must be prepared physically and mentally, and be well-equipped. Children are more susceptible than adults to fatigue, hypothermia and heat exhaustion.
If you do intend to walk with young children, we recommend they first gain experience on other less demanding multi-day walks and that you, as their carer, have experience walking in Tasmanian alpine areas.
Educational and school groups
Educational, school and community groups completing the walk must use the group tent platforms, and not sleep in the huts.
All groups must book by emailing the Overland Track booking team at overlandtrack@parks.tas.gov.au
Winter walking (1 June-30 September inclusive)
During the off-season, the track can be walked in either direction (from Cradle Mountain or Lake St Clair) and only a current
parks pass is required.
Winter walking should only be attempted by very experienced bushwalkers. Walkers should expect heavy rain, snow, blizzards and occasional trees fallen across the track. Daylight hours are short and track and facilities maintenance is not as frequent during winter. Snow shoes are recommended, however the snow conditions and vegetation cover can make snow shoes difficult to use.
For winter walks, it is essential that all walkers:
- Register at the registration booth at the start of your walk;
- Advise family and friends of your intentions and have an plan in place if you are behind schedule;
- Remember that there is no phone reception on the Overland Track; and
- Read our
plan your trip page.
Use of sections of the Overland Track
The Overland Usage Guidelines were designed to assist walkers to plan during the booking season (1 October-31 May). For further information regarding theses guidelines please email the contact below.