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

Great Short Walks South Cape Bay Beach — 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.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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

Apsley Gorge — 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.

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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

Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake — 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.

Overlooking the winding Tamar River, the Tamar Ridge & PIRIE Cellar Door is where two of Tasmania’s most acclaimed wine labels come together. Sip award-winning cool-climate wines and world-class sparkling while soaking up the vineyard views in one spectacular setting.

The fire crackles softly as you settle into a comfortable armchair, a glass of Tamar Ridge Reserve Pinot Noir warming your hands. Outside, rows of vines stretch across the Tamar Valley, their gentle contours framed by rolling hills and ever-changing skies. Or perhaps it’s a sunlit afternoon, and you’re on the terrace with a flute of PIRIE Vintage sparkling in hand, watching the valley shimmer beneath you as each crisp sip captures the freshness of Tasmania. At the Tamar Ridge and PIRIE Cellar Door, the setting in one of Australia’s most celebrated cool-climate wine regions is every bit as special as the wines.

The two brands now share a beautifully refurbished cellar door, giving visitors the opportunity to sample both still and sparkling wines from the Brown Family Wine Group’s luxury portfolio in a single stop. Alongside the shared tasting space, they’ve also introduced a range of premium experiences tailored to each brand.

Tamar Ridge’s story began in 1994, when vines were planted at Kayena in Tasmania’s Upper Tamar Valley. Guided by renowned viticulturist Dr Richard Smart – the “Flying Vine Doctor” – the vineyard quickly gained a reputation for quality, with a new winery established in 1998 and the Tamar Ridge label born.

sitting on the lawn of Tamar Ridge & Pirie Cellar Door — Sit outside to soak in the sun as you enjoy Tamar Valley views. (Credit: Natasha Mulhall)

Today, New Zealand-born head winemaker Tom Wallace leads the cellar, brings his passion for cool-climate winemaking to help shape Tamar Ridge’s reputation for elegant, expressive wines.

Founded by Dr Andrew Pirie in 1995, PIRIE helped prove the island’s potential for world-class cool-climate sparkling.

Crafted in the traditional method from hand-picked Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grown in the Valley, PIRIE Tasmania sparkling wines are celebrated for their fine beads, depth and elegance. With a collection of trophies, gold medals and top honours behind them, these rare vintages showcase the very best of the state’s sparkling wine.

Brown Brothers – now known as the Brown Family Wine Group – acquired Tamar Ridge, PIRIE and Devil’s Corner on the island’s east coast in 2010, extending the legacy of a family wine company founded in 1889 at Milawa in Victoria’s King Valley. The company has continued its pursuit of exceptional cool-climate vineyards, recognising Tasmania’s unique potential in a changing climate.

Location

roaring fireplace inside Tamar Ridge & Pirie Cellar Door tamar valley — Get cosy by the roaring fireplace. (Credit: Natasha Mulhall)

Tamar Ridge & PIRIE Cellar Door is set on the west bank of the Tamar River, just 20 minutes north of Launceston and around two and a half hours’ drive from Hobart near the riverside village of Rosevears in northern Tasmania. Stretching more than 60 kilometres along the river, from the mouth near Launceston north towards Bass Strait, the Valley is a vast patchwork of vineyards, orchards, farmland and historic townships.

Style & decor

interior of Tamar Ridge & Pirie Cellar Door tamar valley — Come for a regular tasting, or book an experience. (Credit: Natasha Mulhall)

Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase panoramic views, while outdoor decks make the most of the surrounding scenery. Inside, the refined contemporary interiors strike a balance between modern luxury and the natural surrounds, with a double-sided fireplace to linger by. A Tamar River view creates a warm focal point. Natural wood accents add a sense of place, including a handcrafted 12-seat Tasmanian oak table that anchors the space with understated elegance.

Wine experiences

The cellar door’s curated wine experiences pair award-winning wines with local produce and the stories behind them. For those who prefer a leisurely visit without a set itinerary, the cellar door also offers cheese platters and small plates, best enjoyed with a glass in hand while taking in those Tamar River views.

Come for a taste, stay for an experience.

PIRIE & Oyster Experience

A true taste of Tasmania comes to life in the PIRIE & Oyster Experience, created in partnership with Tasmanian Oyster Co. Exploring the connection between merroir and terroir – the influence of the sea and soil on flavour – this guided tasting pairs three premium oysters from different Tasmanian growing regions with three expressions of PIRIE sparkling wine: the NV, 2021 Vintage and Blanc de Blanc.

As each oyster and wine pairing is revealed, guests discover how Tasmania’s unique landscapes shape flavour, from the mineral freshness of the ocean to the elegance and precision of cool-climate sparkling wine.

Pinot Noir Blending Experience

For those who want to step behind the winemaker’s bench, the Pinot Noir Blending Experience offers a hands-on journey into the art of creating great wine.

Guests taste through three to four individual Pinot Noir clones from the previous vintage, each revealing its own personality through aroma, structure and character. Guided by the cellar door team, visitors explore how these individual components come together to create balance and complexity – before attempting their own blend.

Will you recreate the house style, or create something entirely original? This immersive experience offers a fascinating insight into the craft, creativity and precision that goes into every bottle.

Supreme Indulgence

Tamar Ridge & PIRIE Cellar Door — Settle in for true indulgene. (Credit: Natasha Mulhall)

The most elevated experience at the cellar door, the Supreme Indulgence (PIRIE Sparkling with Caviar tasting) is a celebration of luxury, refinement and Tasmania’s exceptional produce.

Priced at $99 per person, the tasting pairs PIRIE Tasmania’s most distinguished sparkling wines with carefully selected sturgeon caviar, chosen to enhance the elegance, texture and finesse of each cuvée. Hosted by an expert member of the team, the experience unfolds as a thoughtful exploration of fine bubbles, delicate flavours and the craftsmanship behind every bottle.

Start planning at tamarridge.com.au and pirietasmania.com.au.

The 13 Tasmanian hikes you can smash out in a day