The Lakeside Track along Lake St Clair is the last day of the iconic Overland Track, or a peaceful and refreshing escape in its own right. The trees here are thousands of years old. Some of them are wider than your garage.

Highlights

  • Ancient rainforest
  • Rocky beaches
  • Australia’s deepest lake
  • Stunning mountain views
  • Ferry cruise (optional)

The Lowdown

Mud squelches beneath your boots. Stop and listen. Water from a nearby creek trickles ever so quietly down its rugged course. Where does it go? The cool forest air fills your lungs. Look around. The trees are gargantuan. They have twisted and twined their way up to the sky, ruling above the forest below. Mosses and lichens dwell at their feet. Something sparkly catches your gaze. You work your way through the shrub and the world opens up. It was the lake, shimmering in the sunlight. You take off your boots and wade into the cool, fresh water. On all sides, the mountains are calling…

Halfway around Lake St Clair, you will encounter the picturesque Echo Point Hut on the lakeshore. If you desire more time in the wilderness, bring a mat and sleeping bag for an overnight stay (carrying a tent is advised in case the hut is full).

 

Sam Christie, Lake St Clair, Tasmania, reflection, pine tree, lake

 

You can spend the day frolicking on the beach or exploring the forest. The spire-like sentinel of Mount Ida watches over you from the opposite shore. You can drink the cold, fresh water straight from the lake. It tastes like blissful serenity. You won’t be disappointed.

To make your perfect day or overnight trip complete, cruise across the lake on board the IDA CLAIR. The half hour ferry trip doesn’t feel quite that long. You know what they say, “time flies when you are surrounded by largely untouched Tasmanian wilderness”.

You will need to pre-book the ferry to ensure your place. At $40 for an adult ticket, it’s rather fairly priced. If you’re doing it as a day/overnight trip, you’ll need the ferry, unless you want to walk all the way back again. I recommend catching the early ferry out and then walking back to the visitor centre. The views to the Ossa and Du Cane mountains are spectacular on the outward journey.

Essential Gear

  • Food and water
  • Camera
  • Parks pass
  • Map and compass
  • Warm and waterproof clothing

Activities

  • Hiking
  • Photography
  • Swimming
  • Drink straight from the lake
  • Ferry cruise (optional)

How To Get There

Derwent Bridge (Lake St Clair) is a two and a half-hour drive from both Launceston and Hobart. After entering the National Park, you can leave your car at the Cynthia Bay visitor centre and commence the walk. More information can be found in this brochure.

 

Distance Covered/Elevation Gain

17.5 km/Not Much

Skill Level

Beginner – distance and potentially bad weather may pose challenges.

 

Feature photo by Riley de Jong