Hartz Mountain National Park is at the southern end of the Huon Valley and looks out towards the south-west wilderness area. It is one of 19 Tasmanian National Parks which became part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area in 1989. This was in recognition of its significant natural and cultural values.
Shaped by ancient glaciers, Hartz Mountain National Park offers visitors an insight into the Tasmania’s remote and rugged south-west wilderness. Here you can stand and look out at the stunning southern remote mountain ranges.
A dolerite igneous rock mountain range runs through the centre of the park and glacial lakes are scattered throughout. The area supports a wide range of wildlife such as wombats, Bennett’s wallabies and pademelons, echidnas and platypus. Hartz Mountain offers short scenic walks as well as longer more challenging days walks to higher country.
Walk Options
Lake Osborne (40 minutes return)
If you want to experience the many varieties of forest and moorland then this walk is an ideal start. A gentle uphill climb through forest takes you across the Hartz Plateau to this picturesque glacial lake. You will pass through a grove of young rainforest, containing myrtles, sassafras and pandani. Beyond the forest look out for the Devils Marbles, large boulders dumped onto the plateau by glaciers. A section of woodland and open moorland then leads you to the lake which is fringed with ancient King Billy pines. You can also learn, from signs along the trail, the story of how fire and ice have shaped this landscape and its vegetation.
Lake Esperance and Ladies Tarn (2 -2.5 hrs return)
A fascinating walk through woodland and snow gums, up to the high country. First you will come accross Lake Esperance where cushion plants and ancient King Billy pines encircle the lake. You may hear the haunting call of the mountain currawong as you wander along the plateau. A little further you will come across the short track to the Ladies Tarn.
Hartz Pass (3.5 hrs return)
This is an ideal place to get a view into the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, but is a steep uphill climb. You will need to be a reasonably fit walker.
Hartz Peak (5 hrs return)
Hartz Peak is the highest point of the Hartz Mountains, and in fine weather the summit offers one of the best views of the south-west. The jagged outline of Federation Peak can be seen on the horizon. This is a walk only for fit, experienced walkers, as it is a steep uphill climb and the route is not clearly marked beyond Hartz Pass. Along the ridge from Hartz Pass you may encounter extreme weather with poor visibility and strong winds. You will need strong footwear for this section which climbs steeply over loose rocks and boulders. Allow plenty of time for the many stops to enjoy the breathtaking views.
Location
The park is 84 kilometres, 1.5 hours drive south-west of Hobart via Geeveston on the A6. From Geeveston turn right onto the Arve Road (C632) and follow it for 13km until you reach the signposted turnoff to the park. Please Note: the final section of the road is unsealed and continues for 10.5km.
Parks Pass
You will need to ensure that you have a Parks Pass before you arrive. If you do not already have one, we recommend that you purchase one before departing or purchase one online on the Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife website.
Before you go
Before you take any walk-in Tasmania you should follow the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Safe Walking Guidelines.
Safety & Weather Considerations
The weather at Hartz Mountain National Park can be wild and inhospitable. In all seasons there can be snow, high rainfall, strong winds, extreme temperatures and sudden weather changes which can contrast dramatically to the conditions in the lower areas. Always be aware of the current weather forecast before heading to the park. We recommend that you always carry waterproofs and warm clothing with you.
It is important to register your walk, even short ones, at the registration booth next to the carpark and make sure to sign out at the end of your walk.
Facilities
There are no camping or accommodation facilities within the park and the day facilities are basic with a toilet, running water and a picnic shelter available near the entrance to the Waratah Lookout track. The shelter has an open fireplace, free gas barbecue, and tables. Firewood is supplied and a recycling station is provided for rubbish collection. There is a large shelter with toilets near the carpark at the commencement of the major walks as well as a walker registration booth.