
moderate
4 days (full-day drives and hikes)
Good general fitness for climbs of 150–400 m and multiple 2–6 km hikes; able to walk on uneven terrain for several hours.
A compact, four-day loop from Hobart that stitches together Tasmania’s rainforest, alpine, and coastal highlights—abundant wildlife, iconic hikes like Dove Lake and Wineglass Bay, and comfortable lodge stays. Small groups, big scenery.
An early Hobart dawn sets the tone—salt air still clinging to the car windows as the van slips out of the city and into country that wants to be left alone. The road climbs past New Norfolk and into the ragged spine of Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area; rainforests press close, rivers dare you to follow their braided courses, and the trees here wear decades like armor. By late morning the group stands beneath Russell Falls: the water threads through rock and moss, a cool spray on your face and a first real taste of Tasmania’s scale.

Pack a breathable base layer, insulating mid-layer and a waterproof shell—conditions in Cradle can change within an hour.
Binoculars increase your wildlife sightings at dawn/dusk; a headlamp helps on dusk penguin walks and early-morning starts.
Expect wet boardwalks and rocky ascents—waterproof boots with good tread make hikes like Marion’s Lookout and Wineglass Bay far more comfortable.
Full days include long drives and active hikes—carry 1–2 L water and calorie-dense snacks to keep energy steady.
The route crosses landscapes shaped by Aboriginal custodianship and later by 19th-century timber and mining industries, visible in towns like Queenstown.
Much of the itinerary travels through World Heritage protected areas—stick to trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and respect sanctuary rules to reduce impact.
Keeps feet dry and stable on wet boardwalks, rocky coastlines and mountain approaches.
Protects against sudden rain and coastal wind on exposed headlands and alpine trails.
Carries water, layers, camera and snacks for daily hikes and wildlife watches.
Improves chances of spotting platypus, wallabies and seabirds from a distance.