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Tyenna Peak, Mount Field National Park
Tyenna Peak, Mount Field National Park (photograph: Dan Broun)
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Mount Field National Park

Towering trees, waterfalls and alpine tarns.

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Alerts for Mount Field National Park

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Safety alert: Mount Field National Park - Lake Dobson Road
Applies from 6/9/2024

​​​Lake Dobson road is open.

Extreme caution should be used while traveling on the Lake Dobson Road.

Water damage has occurred on sections of the road.  There are soft edges where road works have been carried out and traffic has been reduced to a single lane. 

Please contact Mt Field Visitor Centre on 03 6288 1149 for further information.

Last reviewed 30/9/2024 08:50 AM

Closed area: Edgar Dam boat ramp and campground - Southwest National Park
Applies from 5/8/2024

​Hydro Tasmania is commencing works on Edgar Dam starting October 2024 until mid-2026. 

During this time, the Edgar Dam boat ramp and campground will be closed. 

Access to Strathgordon and Scott's Peak boat ramps remains open.

Camping at the Huon and Ted's Beach campground remain open. 

During this period, there will also be short delays due to increased traffic along Scott's Peak Road. 

For more information, please visit the Hydro Tasmania w​ebsite ​or contact the Mount Field Visitor Centre on (03) 6288 1149.​​

Last reviewed 3/9/2024 01:10 PM

FeaturesExpand/Collapse

  • Access friendly
  • Barbecues
  • Cafe
  • Camping
  • Caravan access
  • Fuel stove only
  • Huts
  • Overnight walk
  • Park ranger
  • Parking
  • Picnic facilities
  • Short walk
  • Toilets
  • Visitor centre
  • World Heritage Area

ContactExpand/Collapse

  • Mount Field Visitor Centre
    66 Lake Dobson Rd
    National Park TAS 7140
    Phone: 03 6288 1149
    Email: MtField@parks.tas.gov.au

    ​Visitor centre opening hours
    Open 7 days
    9am - 5pm 1 December to 30 April 
    9am - 4pm 1 May to 31 October 
    9am - 4.30pm November

About

As the winding road ascends through Mount Field National Park the stunning natural flora transforms, offering a constantly changing view as you climb to higher altitudes. Known as ‘the park for all seasons’, Mount Field is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and home to some of the world’s tallest eucalypt forests, as well as a unique array of alpine vegetation.

Mount Field National Park is one of Tasmania’s oldest national parks and is also one of its most diverse. Spectacular glaciated landscapes compete for attention with cascading waterfalls, including the breathtaking, three-tiered Russell Falls - arguably one of the most impressive waterfalls in Tasmania.

Begin your Mount Field visit with a leisurely walk through the towering tree ferns and giant eucalypts on the short walk to Russell Falls, before travelling up the road toward Lake Dobson, where you will find longer day walks and, in winter, the snow-dusted slopes of the Mount Mawson ski field. During autumn, the hillsides of the Tarn Shelf are a riot of colour as the fagus, or deciduous beech, turns gold, orange and red.

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With its diversity of vegetation, numerous glacial lakes and prolific wildlife, it’s no wonder this beautiful national park was added to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area in 2013. Mount Field National Park has a wide variety of scenic features and wildlife, and offers a great range of facilities for day visitors, an extensive network of walking tracks, and a couple of options for staying overnight.

The park essentially has two visitor sections. ​The first, near the park entrance, includes the visitor centre, picnic facilities and the famous Russell Falls. Explore the Curiosity Room in the visitor centre, then take the sealed 15 minute wheelchair-accessible walk to Russell Falls. You can then opt to continue on through to the Tall Trees walk to see some of the park’s giant eucalypts.

The second visitor section is centred on Lake Dobson and includes longer day walks and skiing areas. Dramatic mountain scenery and alpine plant communities are a feature of the higher parts of the park.

A TrailRider - an all-terrain wheelchair - is available for hire for visitors with impaired mobility from the visitor centre;​ full details are available on this page in the "Access friendly " section.

The 30 minute drive to Lake Dobson takes you through rainforest, past towering swamp gums and up to the high country of snow gums, alpine moorlands and glacial lakes. During winter, in favourable snow conditions, cross country skiing is popular in the mountains above. There are also some opportunities for downhill skiing, accessible via a 30 minute walk from Lake Dobson via the Urquhart Track.

From the ski huts, a well-marked track leads you to the spectacular Tarn Shelf, a stunning shelf with a bounty of lakes carved by glacial pressure during the previous ice age.

In summer the high country can be a blaze of colour with flowering waratahs, boronias and heath. In Autumn, the leaves of the fagus ​(Nothofagus gunnii), or deciduous beech, turn, creating a spectacular display on the hillsides of the Tarn Shelf and at Lake Fenton.

​​​​​​​​Mount Field is one of Tasmania's most diverse national parks. From the tall forests at the base of the mountain to the unique alpine plants at its summit, this national park offers an array of natural wonders.

This diversity is a result of various influences, including the Park's geographic location central to both the eastern and western floras of Tasmania, the range of geological substrates present (including dolerite, sandstone, and quartzite) and its altitudinal range, which extends from lowland to alpine habitats.

The landscape has been shaped by glaciers from the previous ice age, which have formed the valleys and the numerous tarns. Periglacial blockstreams are a feature in several locations throughout the park, including the fine example that dams Lake Fenton.

The park forms an important vegetation conservation area, protecting numerous species, including at least 13 that are rare or threatened in Tasmania.

Wallabies, wombats and echidnas are commonly seen, and platypus are present in Lake Dobson. Species that are either extinct or endangered on the Australian mainland, such as the eastern quoll and the eastern barred bandicoot, are also found here. This area also protects a wide range of birds, from small, flitting forest birds to conspicuous cockatoos and wedge-tailed eagles. At night, glowworms can be seen near Russell Falls.

For more information on our wildlife please see Tasmania's wildlife.

Visit our caring for wildlife page for more information on interacting with and protecting our native animals.

Mount Field National Park, and the greater Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, is a large cultural landscape. Archaeological surveys have uncovered a number of Aboriginal heritage sites within Mount Field. Extensive surveys of the nearby Florentine Valley have shown Aboriginal occupation of over 35,000 years, including the use of several caves near the Florentine River, dating from the Pleistocene, tens of thousands of years ago. 

It has been suggested that the park fell within the territory of the Big River people, who occupied territory ranging from the Great Western Tiers to Mount Wellington. The Pangerninghe band located at the junction of the Derwent and Clyde rivers near the present-day township of Hamilton, were the closest band to the national park. Understandably, today's Aboriginal community have an ongoing connection to this culturally rich land.

Along with Freycinet, Mount Field is Tasmania's oldest national park, and is also one of the oldest reserves in Australia. The Russell Falls Reserve became the first reserve in Tasmania when it was first proclaimed in 1885.

Historical sites in the park are associated with tourism, trout fishing, skiing, road and track building, and water schemes. The major historical features in the park include the Lake Fenton Hut, Twilight Tarn Hut and associated artefacts, Lake Dobson Road historical sites, the Government Huts, waterworks at Lake Fenton, early access tracks, the 'Old Farm' area, some of the recreation facilities at the entrance area of the park and logging remains.

Mount Field National Park map Buy a map from TasMap

​Mount Field National Park is just over an hour’s drive from Hobart via New Norfolk and Westerway on the A10 or B62. From Westerway it is a short, winding drive to the small township of National Park and the entrance to Mount Field National Park.

Where possible, please avoid driving in our reserves at night. You are sharing the roads with our native wildlife, so take it slow and watch out for animals on the road.

​​​​The Mount Field Visitor Centre is open daily and has information on walks and other activities in the area, as well as sales of park passes. The complex also contains the privately-run Waterfalls Café, offering a variety of food and drinks, as well as a gallery where a range of souvenirs are available for sale.

Picnic facilities with electric barbecues can be found in the extensive visitor centre grounds, along the banks of the Tyenna River and Russell Falls Creek.

Access to the Lake Dobson carpark is up a winding gravel road, 16km past the Park entrance. Due to snow conditions, vehicles using this road may require chains and at times the road may be closed. Phone 03 6288 1149 for information on road conditions. This road is not suitable for campervans or buses.

Throughout winter, ski tows operate on the slopes on weekends and holidays when conditions are suitable. These facilities are operated by the Southern Tasmanian Ski Association and it is best to check if they are operating in advance. Visit the Southern Tasmanian Ski Association website or phone 03 6288 1166.

​​​​This is a Fuel Stove Only Area. Fires are prohibited. Please see our Fuel Stove Only Areas webpage ​for more information.​​

​​

​Find out other essential information for visiting Tasmania's parks and reserves on our know before you go section.

​​​​​Walker safety - alpine walks ​​​​​​ (such as Cradle Mountain, Frenchmans Cap, Walls of Jerusalem, Southwest)

Weather conditions in Tasmania can change quickly and frequently, especially in alpine areas. Snow, rain, wind and sun are all possible at any time of the year, and bushfires can occur between October and March. 

When visiting alpine areas you should include at a minimum, in addition to your basic walking gear, a waterproof jacket with hood and storm front (seam sealed and breathable fabric, Gore-Tex or similar), waterproof over trousers (seam sealed and breathable fabric​​, Gore-Tex or similar), sturdy walking boots and warm clothing (a fleece or woollen jumper, thermal base layers, hat and gloves).

Deaths have occurred when people have been caught unprepared in cold, wet and windy weather. Children, older people and those with an illness or disability are at the greatest risk in such conditions. 

Watch the hypothermia safety video with English subtitles to understand the dangers of being cold and how to be prepared. (Safety video with Chinese subtitles.)

Please observe all track signs – they are provided for your safety. Stay on the formed walking tracks at all times – both for your own safety and to protect the sensitive alpine region.

For more information on pack items and safety, please see Safety in parks.​​​​​



​​​The visitor centre and café are fully accessible, as are the toilets within the building. 

The track to Russell Falls, one of Tasmania’s best known scenic attractions, leaves from behind the visitor centre. The track surface is sealed, wide and fairly level. It is suitable for wheelchair users, although some may require assistance. 

Located 50 metres before the visitor centre, the day use area has a number of accessible sites with sheltered picnic tables and barbeques. 

The nearby campground has accessible toilets, and its own picnic area with sheltered tables and barbeques.

A TrailRider (all-terrain wheelchair) is available at Mount Field for visitors with impaired mobility. The TrailRider can be used on a range of designated walking tracks that are not accessible to conventional wheelchairs. Go to Trailriders for further information on use and assistance requirements.

​The TrailRider is available for hire free of charge and advanced bookings are required. To book please contact the Moun​t Field Visitor Centre on (03) 6288 1149 or MtField@parks.tas.gov.au.

For information on visiting with assistance dogs see the access friendly​ page.​​

​

Experiences in Mount Field National Park

Fishing on the rocks at Friendly Beaches, Freycinet National Park

Tasmania has a wealth of excellent inland and ocean fishing locations where you can cast your line.

Statewide

Fishing

Tasmania has a wealth of excellent inland and ocean fishing locations where you can cast your line.

Read more
5-6 hours, 13 kilometres, Grade 5

Located in the beautiful Mount Field National Park, this track through open moorland and sub-alpine forest is best-suited to experienced walkers.

Mount Field National Park

Lakes Belton and Belcher

Located in the beautiful Mount Field National Park, this track through open moorland and sub-alpine forest is best-suited to experienced walkers.

5-6 hours, 13 kilometres, Grade 5
Read more
4 - 5 hrs circuit, 10km, Grade 4

Experience stunning views on fine days from the summit of Mount Field East.

Mount Field National Park

Mount Field East via Lake Nicholls

Experience stunning views on fine days from the summit of Mount Field East.

4 - 5 hrs circuit, 10km, Grade 4
Read more

Mount Field holds an important and colourful place in Tasmania’s history, with the magnificent twin cascade of Russell Falls declared the state’s first nature reserve in 1885. Some thirty years later, in 1916, Mount Field became one of our first national parks.

Mount Field National Park

Mount Field History

Mount Field holds an important and colourful place in Tasmania’s history, with the magnificent twin cascade of Russell Falls declared the state’s first nature reserve in 1885. Some thirty years later, in 1916, Mount Field became one of our first national parks.

Read more
On the way to Mt Field West you'll pass Naturalist Peak
8-9 hours return, 17 kilometres, Grade 5

Scenic views from atop Mount Field’s highest peak.

Mount Field National Park

Mount Field West

Scenic views from atop Mount Field’s highest peak.

8-9 hours return, 17 kilometres, Grade 5
Read more
30-40 minute circuit, 1.5km, Grade 2

A delightful green oasis nestled beneath the ski slopes of Mount Field.

Mount Field National Park

Pandani Grove

A delightful green oasis nestled beneath the ski slopes of Mount Field.

30-40 minute circuit, 1.5km, Grade 2
Read more
25 minutes return, 1.4km return, Grade 1

Russell Falls is one of Tasmania’s most treasured places. The falls delight every visitor and can be reached by a wide, very easy track suitable for wheelchair users and those with strollers.

Mount Field National Park

Russell Falls

Russell Falls is one of Tasmania’s most treasured places. The falls delight every visitor and can be reached by a wide, very easy track suitable for wheelchair users and those with strollers.

25 minutes return, 1.4km return, Grade 1
Read more
Snow boarding at Ben Lomond

Though not widely known for its snow sports, Tasmania has two ski fields operating over the winter months. Mount Mawson, located at Mount Field National Park in the south, and Ben Lomond in the north.

Hobart and South, Launceston and North

Skiing and snow activities

Though not widely known for its snow sports, Tasmania has two ski fields operating over the winter months. Mount Mawson, located at Mount Field National Park in the south, and Ben Lomond in the north.

Read more
30 minutes circuit, 1km circuit, Grade 2

Located in Mount Field National Park, the Tall Trees walk allows you to wander among the tallest flowering plants in the world.

Mount Field National Park

Tall Trees

Located in Mount Field National Park, the Tall Trees walk allows you to wander among the tallest flowering plants in the world.

30 minutes circuit, 1km circuit, Grade 2
Read more
5-7 hour circuit, 12 km , Grade 3

Wander among a series of picturesque glacial lakes at Tarn Shelf, in the beautiful Mount Field National Park.

Mount Field National Park

Tarn Shelf

Wander among a series of picturesque glacial lakes at Tarn Shelf, in the beautiful Mount Field National Park.

5-7 hour circuit, 12 km , Grade 3
Read more
2-2.5 hrs circuit, 6km circuit, Grade 3

Uncover the beauty of this trio of waterfalls located in Mount Field National Park.

Mount Field National Park

Three Falls Circuit

Uncover the beauty of this trio of waterfalls located in Mount Field National Park.

2-2.5 hrs circuit, 6km circuit, Grade 3
Read more
Wedding at Highfield Historic Site

Tasmania's parks and reserves can make for a beautiful backdrop for your special day. See some of our favourite locations for simple, outdoor wedding ceremonies, through to full packages offered by Highfield Historic Site.

East coast, Hobart and South, Launceston and North, North West

Weddings

Tasmania's parks and reserves can make for a beautiful backdrop for your special day. See some of our favourite locations for simple, outdoor wedding ceremonies, through to full packages offered by Highfield Historic Site.

Read more

Accommodation

Stay Overnight

  • Mount Field camping

The forested banks of the Tyenna River make an excellent base for your camping stay in Mount Field National Park.

Bookings and more info

Mount Field camping

  • Mount Field Government Huts

The Government Huts at Mount Field National Park provide an excellent base for experiencing the alpine regions of the area.

Bookings and more info

Mount Field Government Huts