Pelion National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Tasmania

Pelion National Park

Pelion National Park is a rugged wilderness area in Tasmania known for its ancient rainforests, alpine landscapes, and premier hiking opportunities within the famed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park region.

National Park73,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

73,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Pelion National Park

Pelion National Park is a rugged wilderness area in Tasmania known for its ancient rainforests, alpine landscapes, and premier hiking opportunities within the famed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park region.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Pelion National Park is located in the central highlands of Tasmania, Australia, forming part of the larger Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The park features a mix of dense temperate rainforests, subalpine moorlands, and rugged mountain peaks, including Mount Pelion East and Mount Oakleigh. The area is shaped by glacial activity, evident in its deep valleys and cirques, with diverse flora and fauna that thrive in its cool, wet climate. Pelion supports important species such as the Tasmanian devil, quolls, and wedge-tailed eagles, alongside unique plant communities including ancient myrtle beech and large stands of sassafras trees. Historically, the region has been inhabited by the Tasmanian Aboriginal people and later explored during European settlement for its challenging landscapes and resource potential. Today, Pelion National Park is best known for its iconic multi-day hiking routes, such as sections of the Overland Track, attracting outdoor enthusiasts globally. Visitors enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, photography, and camping amidst pristine wilderness. The park’s dramatic scenery combined with well-maintained trails offers an immersive experience into Tasmania’s wild heart. Access to the park is often through the Cradle Mountain visitor area, and the region's unpredictable weather adds an element of adventure and caution for visitors. Pelion National Park provides a compelling destination for those seeking remote mountain landscapes rich in natural beauty and ecological significance.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Pelion National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mount Pelion East: Prominent peak offering panoramic alpine views✦ Ancient rainforest ecosystems featuring myrtle beech and sassafras groves✦ Sections of the famous Overland Track hiking trail✦ Remote mountain tarns and crystal-clear alpine streams
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Pelion National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Pelion National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Pelion National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Pelion National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Pelion National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Pelion National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Pelion National Park
Park Recreation

Backpacking

Available in Pelion National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Pelion National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Tasmanian National Parks pass required; Overland Track permits needed for peak season

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Pelion National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Waterfall Valley Hut Campsite

Popular camping area near the Waterfall Valley Hut along the Overland Track, offering basic facilities and scenic surroundings.

Pelion Plains Campsite

Remote highland campsite close to Pelion Plains hut, ideal for hikers seeking solitude and alpine scenery.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Pelion National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Lake St Clair Village, Tasmania
⌖ 18.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lake St Clair Village, Tasmania

Lake St Clair Village is a serene base for exploring Tasmania’s wilderness with hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching. It’s the southern trailhead of the famous Overland Track and offers stunning alpine lake views.

Summer to early Autumn (December to April)
Explore Town
Derwent Bridge, Tasmania
⌖ 19.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Derwent Bridge, Tasmania

Derwent Bridge is a quiet mountain town that serves as the perfect gateway to Tasmania’s alpine wilderness. It offers hikers, skiers, and wildlife lovers access to iconic trails, secluded camping spots, and breathtaking landscapes all year round.

Summer to early Autumn (December to April)
Explore Town
Mole Creek, Tasmania
⌖ 21.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mole Creek, Tasmania

Mole Creek in Tasmania is a small town famed for its incredible limestone caves, scenic hikes, and rich wildlife. It offers adventure travelers dramatic underground scenery and peaceful wilderness trails for hiking, biking, and camping.

Spring to early Autumn
Explore Town
Meander, Tasmania
⌖ 23.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Meander, Tasmania

Meander, Tasmania is a quiet rural town offering great hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and paddling opportunities in the shadow of the Great Western Tiers. Its peaceful natural surroundings make it a perfect basecamp for outdoor adventurers.

Spring to Autumn
Explore Town
Cradle Mountain Village, Tasmania
⌖ 24.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cradle Mountain Village, Tasmania

Cradle Mountain Village is the prime base for exploring Tasmania’s breathtaking alpine wilderness. Known for the iconic Overland Track, stunning wildlife, and crystal-clear lakes, it’s perfect for hiking, biking, paddling, and photography adventures.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Miena, Tasmania
⌖ 25.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Miena, Tasmania

Miena, Tasmania, is a highland playground renowned for trout fishing, winter skiing at Ben Lomond, and hiking rugged trails around Great Lake. This tranquil village offers year-round outdoor adventure set amid vast wilderness.

Spring to Autumn for fishing and hiking; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Pelion National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.