Above the Canopy: Flying Tasmania’s Hollybank Treetops
Fly the longest line in Tasmania and read the forest from above
The morning light at Hollybank cuts through a scaffold of eucalypts like a slow-searching headlamp. You step onto the platform and the forest exhales — a cool, sap-sweet breath that carries the scratch of birds and the distant rush of Piper River. Guides tighten harnesses with practiced calm. For the next three hours you trade the steady rhythm of trail hiking for a different cadence: the wind under your chest, the line ahead humming, the treetops rising and falling like waves.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for microclimates
Temperatures vary under canopy and on exposed lines—bring a light windbreaker you can stash in a small pack.
Grip-first footwear
Use closed-toe shoes with good traction; platforms and access stairs can be wet or muddy.
Book early for photo windows
Tours cap at 12 guests and include digital photos—reserve morning slots for softer light and less wind.
Listen to guides for safety and wildlife notes
Guides control line timing and can point out native birds and conservation practices—follow instructions for smooth runs.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the shorter signed trails at Hollybank Reserve for quiet birdwatching
- •Stop at a local Tamar Valley cellar door on the way back to Launceston for cool-climate wines
Wildlife
Eastern grey kangaroo, Green rosella (native parrot)
Conservation Note
The treetops operation minimizes ground disturbance by clustering platforms and uses interpretive education to reduce visitor impact; visitors are encouraged to stay on designated paths and pack out waste.
Launceston, settled in the early 1800s, sits at the head of the Tamar estuary; the surrounding forests have long histories of Aboriginal use and later European timber harvesting.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower displays, Moderate temperatures, Birdwatching
Challenges: Occasional rain showers, Variable mud on access trails
Spring brings fresh growth and good visibility; expect cool mornings and occasional showers that make the forest scentier and the trails softer.
summer
Best for: Longer daylight hours, Stable weather, Family bookings
Challenges: Peak crowds, Higher temperatures and sun exposure
Summer is warm and busy—ideal for extended daylight itineraries but book ahead and bring sun protection for exposed sections.
fall
Best for: Crisp clear days, Foliage contrast, Comfortable trekking
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Chillier mornings
Autumn yields clean air and vivid contrast in the canopy; temperatures drop earlier in the day, so layer up for morning starts.
winter
Best for: Fewer crowds, Brisk clear views on calm days, Lower rates
Challenges: Chilly winds on long zips, Possible wet weather and closures
Winter can be quiet and atmospheric but dress warmly and confirm operations in advance—some runs may be affected by wind or heavy rain.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Grip and foot protection for wet platforms and forest access tracks.
Light windbreakerEssential
Keeps you warm and blocks wind on elevated ziplines.
Small daypack
Holds water, layers, and a camera without hindering harness fit.
Sunglasses with retainer
Protects eyes on open zip sections and prevents losing them mid-flight.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The guided canopy tour runs about 3 hours from check-in to finish, including briefing, gearing up, and photo stops.
Is the zipline safe for beginners?
Yes—operators use commercial harnesses and experienced guides; no prior zipline experience is required, though you must be comfortable with heights.
Are photos included?
Digital photos of your experience are included with the tour booking, taken by guides or staff during key sections.
What are the weight and age limits?
Requirements vary; typical programs set minimum age and weight limits for safety—confirm specific limits when booking or on the operator’s site.
How far is it from Launceston?
Hollybank is a short drive from Launceston—roughly 25–35 minutes depending on your exact start point in the city.
Do I need to bring food or water?
Bring water and a small snack if you’ll be out for the day; tours provide essentials for safety but not full meals.
What to Pack
Closed-toe trail shoes for grip, layered windproof jacket for exposed zips, reusable water bottle for hydration, camera or phone with tether for photos
Did You Know
Hollybank’s Canopy Tour includes a 400-meter zipline—one of the longest commercial ziplines in Australia—soaring roughly 50 meters above the forest floor and Piper River.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book morning slots to avoid wind and get softer light; 2) Drive from Launceston Airport in ~30 minutes; 3) Expect patchy mobile signal under dense canopy; 4) Wear closed-toe shoes and avoid loose scarves or jewelry.
Local Flavor
After the tour, head back to Launceston for coffee at the Seaport or a meal at Stillwater for local produce; the Tamar Valley’s cellar doors are minutes away if you’d prefer a wine tasting to wind down.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Launceston Airport (LST) ~30–40 min drive; Trailhead/meeting point: Hollybank Treetops Adventure reserve entrance; Driving distance from Launceston CBD: ~25–35 minutes; Cell service: patchy under dense canopy; Permits: none, but tour reservation required.
Sustainability Note
The operator concentrates platforms to reduce ground erosion and educates guests on Leave No Trace principles—please pack out any rubbish and stick to designated paths to protect habitat.