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Writer's pictureLily Czeszek

5 Criminally Unmissable Things to do in a Tasmanian Winter

Updated: May 18, 2023

We all know Tasmania has the most blissful scenery - from endless cascading waterfalls to mountain ranges and surf beaches just minutes from the city. It provides the freshest air in the world to just over half a million people that call it home. In all its beauty, it can be easy for winter to push even the most adventurous into hibernation. Not to worry, this is why we are here, to help you shake those winter blues and get you exploring the best state in the world. Here are our top 5 destinations you must check off your list next time it's so cold your nose starts to run and see clouds forming from your mouth. Let's rug up and go exploring!


1. Macquarie Heads Pine Forest, Strahan


Where is it?

Located about 4h 40m (305km) from the Hobart City Centre and 4h (285km) from Launceston City Centre. Make your way through the beautiful township of Strahan (and stop in for a coffee at The Coffee Shack, it is divine) and join onto Macquarie Heads Road. Follow the road until you get the intersection at Old Lighthouse Road. On your right you will find the dirt road leading you to the Pine Forest.


Why we love it:

This dreamy forest is one of our favourite free campgrounds around. Like us, you may be lucky enough to be the only campers there. This serene pine forest won us over with its peace and quiet, with the only sounds being each other's voices and the birds singing in the trees. If you are in need of some downtime from the hustle and bustle of city life, this is the perfect location for you. Just look at it! Is that not the most Instagramable location around!


Fees:

Free


Hot Tips:

  • During the drier months, the dirt road is accessible for all vehicles, however, during the damper days, the track may become too boggy for some 2WDs.


2. Ben Lomond


Where is it?

Located about 3h 10m (230km) from the Hobart City Centre and 1h 10m (61km) from Launceston City Centre. Take the drive up the iconic Jacobs Ladder. The winds and bends show just as much beauty as the Summit! Make sure you take time to check the view out from the lookout when you reach the top.


Why we love it:

The snowboarding of course! The six tows that operate throughout winter allow you to experience the only real place Tasmania has a big enough snowfall for snow sports. After a heavy dump of snow, it is almost like being transported to the slopes of Hotham - aside from the rocks and shrubs but we think this just adds to the experience!


Fees:

To get into any National Park in Tasmania, you need to purchase a Parks Pass. Prices vary from $20 - $116 depending on where you want to visit and for how long, so, make sure you check the current prices and obtain a valid pass before you go.


Hot Tips:

  • Always check the weather and make sure you carry chains, like us, you just might need them! Do not fear if you have not got access to an appropriate vehicle or chains they run a regular shuttle bus, just $20pp.

  • It is always a good idea to check the Ben Lomond Snow Cam for up-to-date weather reports, we would hate for you to turn up to no snow!

  • Lift passes, gear hire and lessons are all readily available on the mountain, who knows, you could be the next Scotty James!

3. kunanyi


Where is it?

Located about 45m (33km) from the Hobart City Centre and 3h (235km) from Launceston City Centre. From Hobart just follow your noes towards the mountain, the signage is great and you should have no trouble finding your way through Fern Tree, The Springs, and up to The Pinnacle.


Why we love it:

Who doesn't love a sunrise? The two of us are very much sunrise fanatics and watching the world wake up from the top of the mountain is a must-do bucket list activity! Often we, as locals, take the mountain for granted, but we guarantee, you will not be disappointed by the early wake-up when you reach The Pinnacle for sunrise.


Fees:

Free


Hot Tips:

  • Checking the weather and the road closures is a must if you are wanting to drive to the Pinnacle. During winter the conditions often become unsafe for driving but don't let this stop you, countless walking tracks that lead you to the top. If that doesn't sound like your cup of tea, a winter shuttle is available when the road is closed due to snow.

4. Miena Hotel, Great Lake


Where is it?

Located about 1h 40m (135km) from the Hobart City Centre and 1h 35m (108km) from Launceston City Centre. Just follow the signs to the Central Highlands and you should make your way to Miena with no trouble.


Why we love it:

If you need to know anything about Jacob, it is how much he loves to drive, and this route is one of his favourites. The vastness of the Great Lake as you drive through winding roads in the bush makes for a dreamy Sunday drive. Our top pit stop recommendation is to pop into the Minea Lodge for a Parmi and a Pint. We're sure you would agree, there is something about standing next to open fire, cosy and warm, as you watch the snow fall on the windows outside. You just can't get that in many other places around Australia.

Fees:

Free


Hot Tips:

  • If you're a keen trout fisher, something we know little about, the Great Lake has got to be on your list! Renowned for its world-class trout fishing throw your line in and decide the hype for yourself.

  • If the snow is due to fall, make sure you make a booking, we'd hate for you to miss out on a table.

5. Wilsons Falls, Tarraleah


Where is it?

Located about 1h 45m (121km) from the Hobart City Centre and 2h 30m (167km) from Launceston City Centre. Make your way onto Oldina Drive and park at the top of the Tarraleah Power Station Lookout (also definitely worth checking out). From the carpark, walk across the bridge and you will find the start of the trail.


Why we love it:

Just an hour-long, 2.3km return walk from the quaint little village of Tarraleah is the picturesque Wilsons Falls. Perhaps it was the snow falling on the ferns or the fact that we didn't pass a soul but we could not have imagined a more delightful walk.


Fees:

Free


Hot Tips:

  • This walk is an easy stroll and suitable for most abilities.

  • Keep your eyes peeled and you may even cross the little hut on your way in!

Lil xx




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mc.cjmeier
May 04, 2023

This is so great guys. We really enjoyed all your recommendations. How CUTE is your little dog a dog 💕 We wish you love and success with this awesome website. Deff have to get me a lil bucket hat and a sticker for our future van. Mr and Mrs Meier ( Mark and Christine)

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