Please note, these walk notes are intended to aid in your decision to undertake Frenchmans Cap and do not give a complete breakdown of the walk. For information on trip planning, pack lists and safety information, please see our Know Before You Go pages.
Frenchmans Cap is one of Tasmania's most challenging multi-day walks. Walkers should be experienced and well-prepared. The weather in the area can be unpredictable, and we recommend that you do not attempt the summit in unfavourable conditions. Poor visibility, wind, rain, ice and snow can make the quartzite slippery and dangerous.
You need to register for this walk.
Day 1 - Trailhead carpark to Lake Vera
The walk commences with a crossing of the Franklin River via a swing bridge. From here, a steady climb through rainforest to the slopes of Mount Mullens brings you in sight of the Cap if the weather is clear. The descent from here to Lake Vera through forest and moorland has long sections of boardwalk and another swing bridge at Loddon River.
There is a toilet and rainwater tank at Vera Hut. The hut sleeps 20, and there are additional campsites and tent platforms nearby.
Maximum stay at Vera Hut is one night.
Day 2 - Lake Vera to Lake Tahune
The walk starts in the rainforest along the shores of Lake Vera, before a long, steady and sometimes steep ascent to Barron Pass (950m). In poor weather, take extra care crossing the exposed rocky alpine plateau from Barron Pass (high exposure, frequent strong and gusting winds). At the end of the pass there is a set of vertical stairs to reach the next plateau. A crossing of alpine heathland takes you to Tahune Hut, nestled in the forest beside Lake Tahune.
Tahune Hut sleeps 24 and has a toilet, rainwater tank, heating and lighting. There are also limited tent platforms nestled amongst the surrouding forest. Expect stunning views in good weather.
Maximum stay at Tahune Hut is one night.
Day 3 - Lake Tahune to Frenchmans Cap Summit
The track to the summit, 450m higher than the hut, is well cairned. It ascends steeply towards North Col before traversing terraces above Lake Tahune. Walkers will need to negotiate some zig-zags and some steep scrambles to reach the summit.
The final ascent to the summit of Frenchmans Cap should not be attempted in poor weather.
Return trip
Retrace your journey to the carpark. A maximum stay of one night applies at each hut.