13 Tasmanian hikes you can smash out in a day

Ready to hit the trail? No overnight gear required.

Tasmania is a hiker’s paradise, packed with trails that take you from alpine peaks to wild coastlines – all in a single day. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, summiting mountains or just looking for an easy-breezy stroll, these 13 hikes have got you covered. Lace up your boots, charge your camera and get ready to tackle Tasmania’s best day hikes.

1. Cape Hauy

4 hours return | 9.4 kilometres | Grade 3

Cape Hauy (part of the Three Capes Track), Turrakana Tasman Peninsula

This track delivers you to the edge of the world. (Image: Pierre Destribats)

Get a taste of the legendary Three Capes Track – one of Tasmania’s best hikes – on this heart-pumping hike through Tasman National Park. Wander past wildflowers and coastal heath before the track delivers you to the edge of the world – literally. Peer down at the towering sea cliffs and watch for seals and dolphins frolicking below.

2. Cape Queen Elizabeth Walk

4 hours return | 13 kilometres | Grade 3

Mars Bluff Cape Queen Elizabeth Track Bruny Island

This hike is packed with photo ops. (Image: Jess Bonde)

Sandy tracks, towering cliffs and that iconic Bruny Island Neck – this hike is packed with photo ops. Stop by Big Lagoon, take in the dramatic Bligh Rocks, and when you’re done, reward yourself with some of Bruny’s finest: fresh oysters from Get Shucked or a cheesy feast at Bruny Island Cheese & Beer Co.

3. Lake Esperance

1.5–2 hours return | 3.4 kilometres | Grade 3

Hidden in the heart of Hartz Mountains National Park, Lake Esperance is a glacial gem. The boardwalk keeps things easy while giving you access to breathtaking alpine scenery. Expect crisp mountain air and jaw-dropping views stretching across southeast Tasmania.

4. South Cape Bay

4 hours return | 15.4 kilometres | Grade 3

South Cape Bay is quite literally at the end of Australia’s most southerly road. (Image: Tourism Tasmania/Geoffrey Lea)

Drive as far south as the road will take you to Cockle Creek, then walk the rest of the way to the roaring Southern Ocean. This hike is all about contrasts: lush bushland, dramatic cliffs and a wild beach where the waves have travelled uninterrupted from Antarctica. It’s also home to one of the greatest campsites in Australia.

5. Meander Falls

4.5–6 hours return | 10 kilometres | Grade 4

Chasing waterfalls? This one’s a beauty. The track follows the Meander River through the dense forests of the Great Western Tiers before revealing a stunning 130-metre waterfall tumbling down a sheer rock face. It’s a tough trek, but oh-so worth it.

6. Alpine Village to Little Hell

1.5 hours return | 5.5 kilometres | Grade 3

Don’t let the name scare you – this is one hell of a rewarding hike. Follow a cross-country ski trail (minus the snow) through rolling plains dotted with wildflowers before reaching a summit with sweeping views of Stacks Bluff.

7. Liffey Falls

45 minutes return | 2 kilometres | Grade 2

A short and sweet rainforest wander leading to some of Tasmania’s most picturesque waterfalls. Think lush ferns, towering eucalypts and the soothing sounds of cascading water. Just an hour from Launceston, this one’s a no-brainer.

8. Wineglass Bay to Hazards Beach

4–5 hours circuit | 11 kilometres | Grade 4

Wineglass Bay from Wineglass Bay Track Lookout

Why stop at Wineglass Bay? (Image: Chad Hewson)

Wineglass Bay is a showstopper, but why stop there? Cross the Freycinet Peninsula to the secluded shores of Hazards Beach, where you can sink your toes into the sand before looping back via a she-oak forest lining Great Oyster Bay.

9. Apsley River Waterhole and Gorge

4–5 hours circuit | 5.6–7 kilometres | Grade 2 – 3

Take a mid-hike dip here. (Image: Jamie Douros/Camille Helm)

Hiking and swimming? Yes, please. This East Coast gem features a natural waterhole that is perfect for a mid-hike dip. Keep an eye out for rock formations and native wildlife as you weave your way through Apsley Gorge.

10. Bishop and Clerk

4–5 hours return | 11 kilometres | Grade 4

Fossil Cliff Quarry Site, looking towards Bishop and Clerk

While challenging, this hike is worth every step. (Image: Tourism Tasmania and Robb Burnett)

Bishop and Clerk is one of Tasmania’s more challenging hikes, but the payoff? Insane ocean views stretching across the Tasman Sea. Clamber up rocky slopes, soak in the scenery and maybe even spot some of Maria Island’s famous wombats along the way.

11. Dove Lake

2–3 hours return | 6 kilometres | Grade 3

A trip to Cradle Mountain isn’t complete without a stop at Dove Lake. (Image: Sean Scott Photography)

The ultimate Cradle Mountain classic. Follow a well-formed track around this glacial lake, taking in views of Tasmania’s most famous peak, ancient rainforest and even a charming old boat shed.

12. Mount Rufus

7-hour circuit | 19 kilometres | Grade 4

For those who like a challenge, Mount Rufus delivers. Trek through alpine meadows, past twisted snow gums, and up to an epic vantage point overlooking Lake St Clair, Mt Olympus and Frenchman’s Cap.

13. Hogarth Falls

40–50 minutes return | 2.4 kilometres | Grade 2

An easy rainforest stroll near Strahan with a beautiful waterfall at the end. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a platypus paddling in the creek.

Tourism Tasmania and Jetstar have launched a huge airfare sale from five major Australian cities

Slurping the world’s freshest oysters on Bruny Island, hiking the iconic Overland Track, admiring the contemporary art at MONA and swimming in the pristine waters of the Bay of Fires – it might be Australia’s smallest state, but there’s so much to do all year-round in Tassie, it’s almost overwhelming.

And now, it’s easier and cheaper to experience The Apple Isle’s bounty as Jetstar has announced a huge sale with flights starting from as little as $46 one way.

Visit stunning beaches like Wineglass Bay Beach. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Discounts on flights from all five major cities have dropped, with one-way prices including:

– Melbourne to Launceston starting from $46

– Melbourne to Hobart from $54

– Sydney to Launceston from $55

– Adelaide to Hobart from $85

– Brisbane to Launceston from $95

– Gold Coast to Hobart from $105

Oysters and wine on a wine barrel overlooking a mountainous view.

Tasmania is renowned for its fresh oysters. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Tasmania offers an incredible range of things to do throughout the year, from unique cultural attractions and spectacular natural wonders to world-class wineries and gourmet food experiences. During the warmer months, make the most of the longer days by exploring idyllic beaches like Larapuna/Bay of Fires, named Tourism Australia’s Best Beach in 2025.

Adventurers can take on the Three Capes Walk, a breathtaking multi-day hike along the dramatic coastline of the Tasman Peninsula, spotting migrating whales, echidnas, wallabies, seals and birds along the way. Meanwhile, food lovers can savour the region’s flavours at Festivale, Launceston’s vibrant three-day celebration of local produce, wine and entertainment.

Catch the Aurora Australis over Tasman Island. (Image: Luke O’Brien Photography)

During the “off season”, get cosy by a log fire in an alpine national park cabin or step outside to admire the Southern Lights as 2025 and 2026 are predicted to offer some of the best Aurora Australis viewing opportunities. For something special, visit Tassie in late April and May for “the turning of the fagus” where Tasmania’s only native-winter deciduous tree brings spectacular autumnal colours to Tasmania’s highlands.

Cradle Mountain is perfect for nature lovers. (Image:
Cultivate Productions)

Jetstar’s sale to Tasmania applies to one-way flights only and excludes checked bags. Discounted fares are available on select dates from 16 October 2025 to 1 July 2026, subject to travel conditions.

Whether it’s a relaxed weekend escape or a thrilling multi-week adventure, now is the perfect time to fly south to this diverse island.

The 13 Tasmanian hikes you can smash out in a day