Imagine stepping into a world with ancient rainforests, glacial lakes that shimmer like glass, and every sunrise feels like a reward for yesterday’s climb.
Mackenzie discovered all this and more when she walked the Overland Track - here's her experience.
That’s the Overland Track - a 65km, six-day hike through Tasmania’s wild heart. Here’s what it was like to take on one of Australia’s most iconic trails through Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park and walking it was an unforgettable experience.
Before the walk
Going into the walk, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. I knew the Overland Track was known for its amazing views and tough weather, but I didn’t really know what the day-to-day hiking would be like. I was keen to get started, but also unsure whether I was fully prepared for six days of walking with a heavy pack. If you're unsure of what to pack for your Overland Track hike, Tas Walking Co. has put together a great gear list.
During the walk
The scenery constantly changed around us - from rugged mountains and sweeping alpine plains to thick temperate rainforests filled with ancient Gondwanan flora. We passed different habitats of pandani, sassafras, and celery-top pine, all covered in moss and surrounded by bright fungi that added colour to the landscape. The walking itself was challenging at times, especially on the longer days or when the weather turned.
On our third morning, we woke to snow, and overnight the track had become hard to see, forcing us to slow down and concentrate on every step. Even though it made walking more difficult, the sight of the snow lifted the mood. It completely transformed the landscape, covering the trees, softening the ridgelines, and making everything feel almost magical. What started as a challenge quickly became one of the most memorable parts of the whole hike because of how beautiful the trail looked with the snow.
Throughout the hike, we constantly crossed paths with wildlife. Wombats and pademelons were the most common, often wandering right near the track. With a bit of patience, we also spotted wallabies and heard currawongs calling above the trees. Birdlife filled the rainforest sections - honeyeaters, dusky robins and silvereyes. My personal highlight of the trip was the quiet moments at camp in the evenings, sitting with my group, sharing food, resting sore legs, and feeling completely disconnected from everyday life. Those moments made the whole experience feel special.
Would I recommend the Overland Track?
This walk truly deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list. It offers the perfect balance of challenge and reward: wander through ancient rainforest, look out across glacial lakes, and with the breathtaking views from Marion’s Lookout and Pelion Gap. Beyond the scenery, it’s the sense of achievement, the friendships built, and the feeling of being completely immersed in nature that make the Overland Track such a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s a journey you’ll never forget - and one I’d recommend to anyone who gets the chance. If you're interested in ticking the Overland Track off your bucket list, check out Tas Walking Co's vatiery of Cradle Mountain guided hikes.
Author and photographer: Mackenzie Long.
Last updated: 1 December 2025.
