Tasmanian Trail

Connecting Devonport in the north with Dover in the south, the Tasmanian Trail is a 460-kilometre-long path that explores the state forests, rural landscapes and country towns of the “Apple Isle”. It takes in the Great Western Tiers and the Central Highlands before passing through the Great Lakes region and down to the banks of the Derwent River. After travelling around the back of kunanyi/Mount Wellington along an old stock route, it continues through the orchard-filled Huon Valley.  

Aside from visiting Latrobe, Railton and Sheffield in the state’s north, the Tasmanian Trail also takes in Arthurs Lake, Bronte Park and New Norfolk, all of which have their own attractions to explore. It can be enjoyed by hikers, cyclists or horse riders, with campsites along the trail where you can overnight. In addition, most of the towns have accommodation options and restaurants if you want a break from self-catering, as well as stores for stocking up on supplies. 

From our base in Sheffield, we can support you along your Tasmanian Trail journey, including transport for both you and your luggage. Aside from getting you to and from Devonport and Dover (the start and end points of the trail), we can transport your luggage to each campsite or drive you along any legs of the trail that you don’t want to complete independently.  

Please contact david@eguide.com.au if you need any help planning your Tasmanian Trail adventure or require support along the route. 

 Practical considerations for the Tasmanian Trail

 It’s important to carefully plan your journey along the Tasmanian Trail and the Tasmanian Trail Guidebook has everything you need to get started. This PDF ebook can be downloaded online, with funds from its sale helping to maintain the trail.

 You may need to obtain a key to access gates and toilets along the trail and this needs to be organised well in advance. Users of the trail are also asked to register on the Tasmanian Trail website when they commence their journey, with the option to also report your progress along the way.

 The Tasmanian Trail is divided into 15 sections, each of which is roughly a day’s journey for horse riders or cyclists. For hikers, it’s worth keeping in mind that some of the route follows roads that you will be sharing with vehicles.

If you are attempting the entire route, it’s important to be prepared for sudden weather changes, varying surface conditions and steep terrain in some sections. There are also at least two water crossings that can become impassable after heavy rain.

 Phone reception is not available along the entire length of the trail and drinking water is limited in some areas. Campsite quality varies but most have three-sided huts where you can prepare meals, picnic tables and water tanks, as well as a pit toilet.

 The Tasmanian Trail is managed by a dedicated team of volunteers in collaboration with the Tasmanian State Government Forestry Department.