Planning to walk the Overland Track in Tasmania?
Getting the transport right is one of the most important parts of planning your Overland Track adventure.
Wild Island Adventures provides Overland Track transport from Launceston to Cradle Mountain, including accommodation pickup, and return Lake St Clair transport to Launceston and Hobart.
We also provide Overland Track gear hire, fuel, luggage storage and complete Overland Track transport and gear packages, helping you organise everything you need before you start walking.
This guide explains the complete journey – from booking your Overland Track departure and organising your accommodation and equipment, through to travelling from Launceston to Cradle Mountain, starting the Overland Track at Ronny Creek, finishing at Lake St Clair and returning to Launceston or Hobart.
Overland Track Transport & Logistics Guide
Overland Track Transport from Launceston to Cradle Mountain & Lake St Clair to Launceston or Hobart
Overland Track Planning Checklist
Before you start your Overland Track adventure, we recommend organising the following:
✓ Secure Your Overland Track Pass
During the main walking season from 1 October to 31 May, walkers need to secure their Overland Track pass thrgouh Parrks and Wildlife in advance. The Overland Track is limited to 34 hikers per day protect the wilderness experience, of whcih the passes become available each year from July the 7th. it is always wise to get online early to attempt to secure your ideal hiking dates.
✓ Allow enough time
The Overland Track is approximately 65 km one way and most walkers complete it in six days. Some walkers allow seven or more days to include side trips, additional nights or the walk around Lake St Clair. As well as this, there are 10 popular side trips which many hikers venture into which are:
The 10 Main Side Trips
Cradle Mountain: A steep, boulder-filled climb offering panoramic views near the start of the trek.
Barn Bluff: A striking, craggy peak providing an alternative or additional summit challenge early on.
Lake Will: A peaceful glacial lake and flat walking detour near Waterfall Valley.
Old Pelion Hut: A historic shelter offering a glimpse into the area's past.
Mount Oakleigh: A dramatic dolerite spire with sweeping views from its summit plateau.
Mount Ossa: Tasmania's highest peak at 1,617 meters, sitting on most hikers' bucket lists.
Mount Pelion East: A shorter, highly rewarding rocky peak near the Pelion plains.
D'Alton and Fergusson Falls: Beautiful cascading waterfalls located just off the main track.
Hartnett Falls: A powerful and scenic waterfall featuring a side trail down to the river level.
Pine Valley (The Acropolis and The Labyrinth): A major valley detour exploring stunning alpine gardens, rainforests, and towering peaks.
Allow additional time before and after the walk for travel, weather and possible delays.
✓ Book your accommodation
If you are travelling through Launceston, consider staying in Launceston the night before your Launceston to Cradle Mountain transport.
You can also stay near Cradle Mountain the night before your walk if you prefer to be closer to the trailhead.
✓ Book your Overland Track transport
Once your walking date is confirmed, book your transport.
Wild Island Adventures offers Launceston to Cradle Mountain transport and return transport from Lake St Clair to Launceston or Hobart.
✓ Arrange luggage storage
If you're travelling with us in both directions, we can store your excess luggage while you walk and have it ready for you when you arrive at Lake St Clair. You will be prompted through the booking process to book luggage storage.
✓ Organise your hiking gear
If you need hiking equipment, arrange it before your departure.
Wild Island Adventures offers Overland Track gear hire, including tents, sleeping bags, hiking packs, sleeping mats, waterproof clothing, cooking equipment, gaiters, PLBs and more. We also have Overland Track transport and gear hire packages which you can see here >>>Overland Track Gear hire Packages<<<>>>Overland Track Transport Packages<<<
We can have your equipment ready for collection in Launceston or arrange it with your transport.
✓ Organise fuel
The Overland Track is a fuel-stove-only area. Make sure you have an appropriate stove and enough fuel for your trip of which you can book through our Wild Island Adventures website here and it is very important to make sure you have enough food for your hike. As a general rule of thumb, carrying an extra day of food is a good idea.
✓ Book your Lake St Clair ferry
It is important you book the ferry before you book your return transport so we can match the pickup time at Lake St Clair with the ferry arrival. f you plan to finish the Overland Track at Narcissus and take the ferry to Cynthia Bay, the ferry must be booked separately before you start walking.
✓ Book your return transport
Don't wait until you finish the walk to organise your journey home.
Book your Lake St Clair to Launceston transport or Lake St Clair to Hobart transport at the same time as your outbound transfer. Once you have organised everything including the ferry if doing so, the easiest option for the transport is to book a return transfer package which you can do so here Complete Return Return Overland Tack Transport Package
Overland Track Transport
Launceston to Cradle Mountain
One of the easiest ways to start the Overland Track is with a dedicated Launceston to Cradle Mountain transfer.
Wild Island Adventures provides transport from Launceston accommodation to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, where you complete your Overland Track check-in before taking the Parks & Wildlife shuttle to Ronny Creek.
Launceston to Cradle Mountain departure times
Our scheduled departures are:
6:15 am
12:00 pm
We provide pickup from accommodation where available, making it easy to begin your journey without having to find your way to a separate bus terminal.
How Long Is the Launceston to Cradle Mountain Journey?
The journey from Launceston to Cradle Mountain takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic, road and weather conditions.
Rather than simply travelling directly to Cradle Mountain, the journey takes you through some of Tasmania's beautiful northern countryside and mountain landscapes.
Our route includes a stop in Sheffield, allowing you to stretch your legs, use the bathroom and purchase coffee, breakfast, lunch or last-minute supplies.
Sheffield Stop – The Town of Murals
Our Launceston to Cradle Mountain transport includes a stop at Bossimis in Sheffield.
Sheffield is famous as Tasmania's Town of Murals and sits beneath the impressive Mount Roland.
The stop provides an opportunity to:
Have a coffee
Grab breakfast or lunch
Use the bathroom
Stretch your legs
Purchase last-minute supplies
Check your hiking equipment
Prepare for the mountain journey ahead
After Sheffield, we continue towards Cradle Mountain and the rugged landscapes of the Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park.
The Journey Into Cradle Mountain Country
As we leave Sheffield, the landscape begins to change.
The route travels from Tasmania's agricultural country into increasingly rugged mountain terrain.
You'll see:
Mount Roland
Mountain forests
The Great Western Tiers region
Highland valleys
Buttongrass landscapes
Eucalypt forests
Rugged western Tasmanian mountains
Eventually, the road climbs towards the Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
Arriving at Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre
Your Launceston to Cradle Mountain transfer finishes at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre.
This is where the next part of your Overland Track journey begins.
You don't start walking directly from the Visitor Centre.
First, you'll need to complete your required Parks & Wildlife Service procedures.
Step 1 – Check in
Head into the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre with your booking details.
During the main walking season, walkers must complete the required briefing and check-in process before beginning the Overland Track.
Step 2 – Complete your Overland Track briefing
The Parks & Wildlife Service briefing provides important information about:
Current track conditions
Weather
Safety
Campsites
Track etiquette
Wildlife
Emergency procedures
Current conditions
Make sure you allow enough time for this process when selecting your transport.
Step 3 – Catch the Cradle Mountain Shuttle Bus
After completing your check-in, you'll take the Parks & Wildlife shuttle bus towards the start of the walk.
The shuttle travels from the Visitor Centre via the Ranger Station and Snake Hill before reaching Ronny Creek and then Dove Lake.
Ronny Creek is where most walkers begin the Overland Track.
Ronny Creek – The Start of the Overland Track
When you arrive at Ronny Creek, you'll be at the northern trailhead of the Overland Track.
Before setting off:
Check your backpack
Put on waterproof clothing if required
Fill your water bottles
Check the weather
Make sure your emergency equipment is accessible
Register at the Walker Registration booth
Then it's time to start walking.
The Overland Track
Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair
The Overland Track travels approximately 65 km from Ronny Creek to Narcissus and is generally completed over six days.
The track passes through an extraordinary range of Tasmanian wilderness environments, including:
Alpine mountains
Glacial valleys
Ancient rainforest
Eucalypt forests
Buttongrass plains
Alpine meadows
High exposed plateaus
Almost half of the route is above 1,000 metres, making preparation particularly important.
Suggested Six-Day Overland Track Itinerary
Day 1 – Ronny Creek to Waterfall Valley
Approximately 10.7 km
The first day takes you into the alpine country surrounding Cradle Mountain.
Depending on your itinerary and conditions, side trips can include:
Crater Lake
Marion's Lookout
Cradle Mountain
Barn Bluff
Overnight: Waterfall Valley
Day 4 – Pelion to Kia Ora
Approximately 8.6 km
One of the great mountain sections of the Overland Track.
You'll travel towards Pelion Gap with Mount Ossa and surrounding peaks dominating the landscape.
Possible side trips include:
Mount Ossa
At 1,617 metres, Mount Ossa is Tasmania's highest mountain.
Mount Pelion East
Another spectacular alpine summit accessible from the main track.
Overnight: Kia Ora
Day 6 – Windy Ridge to Narcissus
Your final walking day takes you towards Lake St Clair.
The standard Overland Track finishes at Narcissus.
From here, most walkers take the ferry across Lake St Clair to Cynthia Bay.
Lake St Clair to Launceston Route
The journey from Lake St Clair to Launceston travels through Tasmania's Central Highlands.
The route includes the spectacular highland scenery around Miena, with a short toilet stop available if required.
From the Central Highlands, we continue towards the Poatina Pass, where the road descends through dramatic mountain country.
The Poatina Pass provides spectacular views as you leave the Central Highlands behind and travel towards northern Tasmania.
Day 2 – Waterfall Valley to Lake Windermere
Approximately 7.8 km
Continue across the alpine plateau towards Lake Windermere.
This section provides spectacular views across the surrounding mountains and wilderness.
Overnight: Lake Windermere
Narcissus to Lake St Clair
Book Your Lake St Clair Ferry Before You Start
If you're taking the ferry from Narcissus to Cynthia Bay, make sure you book it before starting the Overland Track.
The ferry is separate from your Overland Track booking and transport arrangements.
The alternative is to walk approximately 17.5 km around Lake St Clair, adding another day to your journey.
Day 5 – Kia Ora to Windy Ridge
This section contains some of the Overland Track's most spectacular waterfalls and rainforest.
Possible side trips include:
D'Alton Falls
Fergusson Falls
Hartnett Falls
Overnight: Windy Ridge / Bert Nichols Hut
Day 3 – Lake Windermere to Pelion
Approximately 16.8 km
A longer walking day through changing vegetation and mountain landscapes.
Possible side trip:
Mount Oakleigh
Overnight: Pelion
Lake St Clair to Hobart Transport
Return From Lake St Clair to Hobart
If Hobart is your final destination, Wild Island Adventures also provides Lake St Clair to Hobart transport.
This is an excellent option for hikers who have travelled to Tasmania through Hobart or who want to continue their Tasmanian holiday in the state's capital.
The route follows the Lyell Highway through some of Tasmania's most spectacular western mountain country.
You'll travel through rugged wilderness landscapes, mountain ranges, rainforest and valleys as you make your way towards Hobart.
Lake St Clair to Launceston or Hobart – Which Should You Choose?
Your return destination depends on where you're travelling next.
Choose Lake St Clair to Launceston if:
You're staying in Launceston
You're flying from Launceston Airport
You're continuing your trip around northern Tasmania
You want to connect with accommodation in Launceston
Choose Lake St Clair to Hobart if:
You're flying from Hobart
You're staying in Hobart
You're continuing south
You've started your Tasmania holiday in Hobart
BOOK YOUR RETURN TRANSPORT WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR OUTBOUND TRANSPORT.
Don't leave this until the end of your walk.
Overland Track Luggage Storage
Don't Carry Your Suitcase Across Tasmania
If you're travelling with Wild Island Adventures on your Launceston to Cradle Mountain transfer and Lake St Clair return transfer, ask us about our luggage storage service.
Your luggage can be stored while you walk.
We'll then have it ready for you when you arrive at Lake St Clair for your return journey.
This means you can leave behind:
Suitcases
Airport luggage
Spare clothing
Toiletries
Travel shoes
Items not required on the Overland Track
and concentrate on carrying only the equipment you actually need.
Overland Track Gear Hire
Everything You Need for the Overland Track
If you don't want to purchase a complete set of hiking equipment for one trip, Wild Island Adventures offers Overland Track gear hire in Tasmania.
Equipment can include:
3–4 season tents
Hiking sleeping bags
Sleeping mats
70L hiking packs
Waterproof pack liners
Pack covers
Waterproof jackets
Waterproof overpants
Gaiters
Down jackets
Thermal clothing
Hiking poles
Cooking equipment
Hiking stoves
Fuel
Head torches
PLBs
Overland Track Transport and Gear Packages
Make Your Overland Track Planning Easier
If you'd rather organise your transport and equipment together, our Overland Track packages combine the essentials into one booking.
Packages can include:
Launceston → Cradle Mountain transport
Overland Track hiking gear
Lake St Clair → Launceston or Hobart return transport
Luggage storage
This makes organising your Overland Track adventure much easier.
Allow Extra Time Around Your Overland Track
The Overland Track is a remote wilderness journey.
Your actual finishing time can change because of:
Weather
Snow
Heavy rain
Track conditions
Injury
Fatigue
Side trips
Walking pace
Ferry arrangements
For this reason, don't schedule an important flight, restaurant reservation or accommodation check-in immediately after your expected arrival.
Allow a buffer whenever possible.
If you have a flight to catch, contact us before booking so we can help you select the most appropriate transport option.
Why Book Your Return Transport Early?
The Overland Track is one of Tasmania's most popular multi-day hikes.
Once popular walking dates become available, transport demand can increase quickly.
We recommend booking your:
Overland Track departure
Launceston to Cradle Mountain transport
Return Lake St Clair transport
Ferry
Accommodation
Hiking gear
as early as possible.
Parks & Wildlife Service specifically advises walkers to plan their transport to and from the Overland Track, and notes that transport is not included in the Overland Track booking fee.
What Weather Should You Expect?
Don't assume that walking the Overland Track during summer means warm weather.
The Overland Track crosses exposed alpine country and severe cold, rain and strong winds can occur at any time of year, including summer.
You should be prepared for:
Rain
Snow
Strong winds
Cold nights
Low cloud
Mud
Warm sunshine
Rapid weather changes
Good waterproof clothing and appropriate shelter are essential.
Why Carry a PLB?
The Overland Track is remote and there is no reliable mobile phone reception throughout the route.
A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) provides an important emergency option if you experience a genuine life-threatening emergency and cannot obtain assistance by normal communication methods.
Parks & Wildlife Service notes that many walkers appreciate the security provided by carrying a PLB.
We strongly recommend that every group considers carrying a PLB.
Overland Track Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Overland Track?
The Overland Track is approximately 65 km one way from Ronny Creek to Narcissus. Most walkers complete it in six days.
How do I get from Launceston to Cradle Mountain for the Overland Track?
Wild Island Adventures provides Launceston to Cradle Mountain transport, with scheduled departures at 6:15 am and 12:00 pm, including accommodation pickup where available.
How long does Launceston to Cradle Mountain take?
Allow approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, including the Sheffield stop.
Where does the Launceston to Cradle Mountain transfer stop?
We stop in Sheffield at Bossimis, providing an opportunity for coffee, food, toilets and last-minute supplies.
Where does the Overland Track start?
The Overland Track starts at Ronny Creek, reached by shuttle bus from the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre.
Where does the Overland Track finish?
The main Overland Track finishes at Narcissus, where most walkers take the ferry to Cynthia Bay at Lake St Clair.
How do I get from Lake St Clair to Launceston?
Wild Island Adventures provides scheduled Lake St Clair to Launceston transport.
How do I get from Lake St Clair to Hobart?
Wild Island Adventures provides Lake St Clair to Hobart transport.
Can I leave my luggage in Launceston?
Yes. If you are travelling with us both ways, ask about our luggage storage service so your excess luggage can be stored while you walk.
Can I hire hiking gear for the Overland Track?
Yes. Wild Island Adventures offers a range of Overland Track hiking gear hire, including tents, sleeping bags, packs, mats, waterproof clothing, cooking equipment and safety equipment.
Do I need to book the Lake St Clair ferry?
Yes. If you're planning to take the ferry from Narcissus to Cynthia Bay, it needs to be booked separately before you start the Overland Track.
Can I walk around Lake St Clair instead of taking the ferry?
Yes. Walking around Lake St Clair adds approximately 17.5 km and generally requires an additional day.
Is there mobile phone reception on the Overland Track?
Do not rely on mobile phone reception. Prepare for periods without coverage and carry appropriate emergency equipment.
Is the Overland Track suitable for beginners?
The Overland Track is a serious remote alpine walk. Previous bushwalking experience and appropriate preparation are recommended.
Overland Track Safety
The Overland Track is a serious wilderness walk and requires appropriate preparation.
Parks & Wildlife Service describes it as a Grade 4 bushwalk suitable for people with bushwalking experience. Tracks can be long, rough and very steep.
Before leaving, make sure you:
Check current weather
Check track alerts
Carry appropriate clothing
Carry enough food
Carry suitable shelter
Carry emergency equipment
Have a navigation plan
Know your itinerary
Tell someone your plans
Allow extra time
Book Your Overland Track Transport
Launceston to Cradle Mountain | Lake St Clair to Launceston | Lake St Clair to Hobart
Ready to organise your Overland Track adventure?
Wild Island Adventures can help you organise the transport and equipment you need to get from Launceston to Cradle Mountain, start your Overland Track adventure at Ronny Creek and return from Lake St Clair to Launceston or Hobart.
Overland Track Transport
Launceston → Cradle Mountain
Lake St Clair → Launceston
Lake St Clair → Hobart
Plus
Overland Track gear hire
Luggage storage
Fuel
Transport & gear packages
Plan Your Overland Track With Wild Island Adventures
From your first pickup in Launceston to your final journey from Lake St Clair, we make the logistics of walking the Overland Track easier.
Launceston to Cradle Mountain.
Cradle Mountain to Ronny Creek.
Ronny Creek to Lake St Clair.
Lake St Clair to Launceston or Hobart.
One adventure. One organised transport plan.
Start your Overland Track adventure with Wild Island Adventures.