Trail Trekking Invermay

HIGHLIGHTS
Spectacular base camp location central to a diverse range of day walking opportunities Tasmania's last remaining strands of ancient Pencil Pine forests Summit numerous mountain peaks including Mt Jerusalem, The Temple and Solomon's Throne Unique wildflowers and abundant wildlife Interesting highland heritage and history One of the official Great Walks of Tasmania Delicious evening meals cooked by your wilderness guides
Discover a mountain landscape, only accessible by foot, carved by glaciers on our exclusive walk in Tasmania's only true alpine National Park. On this walk, we use a comfortable base camp near the entrance to the Walls of Jerusalem peaks, allowing for delightful day walks with light packs into the heart of this most spectacular mountain regions. On the first day, you will make the short hike up into the base camp, where you can leave your main packs for two days of exploration inside the 'Walls'. You'll have the chance to climb King David's Peak and Mt Jerusalem, from where views stretch across much of Tasmania, or venture to remote outer regions such as Golden Gate or Zion Vale. Each day, you'll return to the base camp, which is situated near a cluster of alpine tarns known as Solomons Jewels. Tents are pitched on wooden platforms, and your guides will prepare gourmet camp meals served with a wilderness view. Utilising the base camps, this trip is an ideal introduction to remote wilderness walking, providing a simple and rewarding camping experience. For a real alpine experience join one of our midwinter snowshoe expeditions.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: This tour commences with a compulsory pre-departure briefing at 2:00 the day 1 of the trip in Launceston. More details will be given after booking.


DAY 2: Launceston via Mole Creek to Wild Dog Creek base camp

This morning you will be collected from your hotel in Launceston at approx 8 am and transferred to the Walls of Jerusalem National Park (travel time approx. 2 hours). Carrying our full backpacks into this magnificent highland area will provide us with a challenge but we will be given plenty of encouragement from our guides as well as snacks and numerous rest stops along the way.
Once the plateau has been reached, the walking is flat and spectacular as we pass by numerous tarns and lakes en route to our base camp for the next 3 nights. On arrival we set up camp, relax and enjoy the amazing surrounds of the dolerite high peak of King David (1499m).
Walking Distance 7km | Walking Time 4 hours
DAY 3: Walls of Jerusalem National Park

Today we head out from our camp (carrying just our day packs) passing Lake Salome and the Pool of Bethesda before reaching the imposing dolerite Gate of Damascus. A nearby area rich in stands of ancient pencil pines & lush grasslands is known as Dixon's Kingdom. The cultural heritage hut was built in the early 1930s by Reg Dixon, a trapper of the time.
After a short break enjoying our lush green surrounds, we head off to climb Mount Jerusalem. On a clear day, the views from Mt. Jerusalem stretch across the central highlands where you will see why the area is referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes”. Our return route to base camp either takes us through the Gate of the Chain or the Golden Gate. Either way, spectacular sub-alpine scenery awaits.
Walking Distance 8-12km | Walking Time 6-8 hours
DAY 4: Walls of Jerusalem National Park

Today is another fantastic day where we continue to explore this alpine paradise. We can climb Solomon’s Throne where we have an excellent view of the area we walked on the previous day. From here we head south and enjoy yet more of the lakes, forests and open grasslands that make this such a superb walking location. For those that are keen, there are more opportunities to climb the surrounding peaks.
Our last night is spent enjoying the views of the peaks featured along the famous Overland Track from our comfortable camp.
Walking Distance 8-12km | Walking Time 6-8 hours
DAY 5: Walls of Jerusalem National Park to Launceston

Being our final day, we make the most of our morning by taking the time to kick back and savour this remarkable part of the Tasmanian World Heritage Area. A leisurely return journey across the plateau before beginning the descent through scented eucalyptus forests before meeting up with our transport back at the Trappers car park. A relaxing afternoon lunch is enjoyed in the nearby town of Mole Creek as we journey back to Launceston arriving at approximately 5.00pm.
Walking Distance 7 km | Walking Time 3-4 hours
WHAT'S INCLUDED
2 professional wilderness guides 3 nights camping at a remote base camp 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners, snacks and hot drinks Transport by private minibus National Park fees Tent, backpack, gaiters Sleeping bag, inner sheet & inflatable sleeping mat Group camping equipment including all cooking & eating equipment Emergency communications & group first aid kit

HIGHLIGHTS
This magnificent alpine area is only accessible by foot. Spectacular campsite locations including two nights spent at a remote base camp. Abundant wildlife and stunning endemic wildflowers The opportunity to summit numerous peaks and the views gained as a reward for our effort Delicious evening meals cooked by your wilderness guides Majestic stands of thousand-year-old pencil pines and sparkling lakes as far as the eye can see


This area showcases spectacular mountain scenery, pristine wilderness, and rare and wonderful endemic flora and fauna. We start in the south of the National Park, bushwalking up onto the Plateau to our grassy camp nestled by Lake Myrtle. From here we can choose to summit Mt Ragoona and Cathedral Mountain, both which provide impressive views over the southern wilderness of the famous Overland Track and the headwaters of the mighty Mersey River and its Never Never region. The trek continues through remote alpine herb fields and highland lake country, sidling Lake Adelaide, Lake Meston and Junction Lake to name a few. In the northern confines of the park, we base camp at Wild Dog Creek and spend two days exploring the surrounding peaks and valleys of the Central Walls region. There is an option to summit King Davids Peak (1499m), Tasmania's 10th highest, as well as walks up Mt Jerusalem, The Temple, and Solomons Throne.
This National Park offers majestic, spellbinding landscape paired with world-class walking opportunities. Join us in exploring Tasmania's captivating and unforgettable Walls of Jerusalem.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: This trip commences with a compulsory pre-departure briefing the day at 12:00 pm in Launceston. More details will be given after booking.

DAY 2: Transfer Launceston to Lake Rowallen, walk to Lake Myrtle
Today you will be collected from your accommodation in Launceston at approximately 8 am and transferred to the Walls of Jerusalem National Park entry point. Carrying our full backpacks into this magnificent highland area will provide us with a challenge, but with plenty of encouragement from our guides as well as snacks and rest stops, the climb is achievable and well worth it. Our trek will take us up onto the central plateau conservation area through forests and button grass plains, past Lake Bill and on until we reach our stunning campsite on the northern shores of beautiful Lake Myrtle. This beautiful campsite is a highlight of the day: a natural grassy meadow manicured to perfection by the resident wildlife. Settling in for the evening we enjoy a hearty meal whilst gazing upon the majestic view of Mt Rogoona's sheer cliffs rising high above the lake.
Walking Distance: 7 km | Walking Time: 6 hours


DAY 3: Lake Myrtle to Lake Meston
After a warm breakfast, we strike camp and continue on past the shores of Lake Myrtle, through alpine vegetation and around the base of Mt Rogoona. Time and weather will dictate whether we choose to attempt a summit of this superbly situated peak. Now that we are on the plateau our walking is gently undulating, and the low alpine scrub gives us wide views in all directions. Continuing on down the other side of the saddle, we zigzag through myrtle rainforest until we reach our second campsite at Lake Meston - depending on time you may hike to the northern campsite or stay by the historical at the base of the saddle; these huts are a common feature in the Tasmanian wilderness and are treated respectfully as historical artefacts. The stories behind the huts are always fascinating and your guides delight in sharing them with you Our camp tonight overlooking the Lake is, again, magnificent.
Walking Distance: 7km + side trips | Walking Time: 4-6 hours



DAY 4: Lake Meston to Lake Adelaide
This morning we break camp and say farewell to the stunning Lake Meston. We quickly pick up a trail that skirts around the edge of Lake Adelaide - ducking through thick rainforest vegetation and popping out at great spots to view the lake - keep an eye out for the elusive platypus as you work your way around the eastern edge of the Lake - there are a few options for campsites tonight - your guides will choose one to fit in with weather and timing.
Walking Distance: 7km | Walking Time: Up 5 hours






DAY 5: Lake Adelaide to Wild Dog Creek

After packing up camp we continue following the lakeshore until we come to the intersection of the Lake Junction and Walls of Jerusalem tracks. Here we begin our entrance into the heart of the National Park. We trek past glacial tarns and alpine herb fields, with the mighty peaks of the central Walls coming into view. Making camp by lunchtime we have the afternoon to duck in and have our first glimpses of the Central Walls. This comfortable camp at Wild Dog Creek will be our base for the next two nights.
Walking distance: 14km | Walking Time: 7-8 hours

DAY 6: Central Walls of Jerusalem
Today is a bushwalker's dream as we explore the central Walls area. With only a day pack on we hike up to Damascus Gate and then descend to the awe-inspiring Dixon's Kingdom. An ancient forest of immense pencil pines gives us a glimpse into Tasmania's Gondwanan heritage. These beautiful, endemic trees are thousands of years old each and standing in their presence is truly humbling. Leaving this magical spot behind we pass Jaffa Gate before ascending Mt Jerusalem (1459m) which rewards us with extensive views of the Central Plateau with its countless lakes and tarns. We then return to our camp at Wild Dog Creek to enjoy another delicious and well-earned meal prepared by your guides.
Walking Distance: 8-12km | Walking Time: 6-8 hours



DAY 7: Wild Dog Creek to Mersey Valley, transfer to Launceston
This morning we bid farewell to this truly outstanding part of Tasmania's World Heritage Area and begin our walk of the plateau. We meander past the sparkling tarns of Solomons Jewels, descend steeply through tall eucalyptus forests filled with a melodious bird call, and stop for a rest at the old Trappers Hut. The last section of the gentle downhill track gives us time to reflect on the last six days of outstanding bushwalking. Just before lunch we meet up with our Tasmanian Expeditions transfer bus and driver. Shrugging off our trusty backpacks, we board the bus and cruise to the village of Mole Creek for a celebratory pub lunch together. Congratulations on completing one of Tasmania's most magnificent and unforgettable wilderness walks! We will drop you at your Launceston accommodation by approximately 5 pm.
Walking Distance: 6km | Walking Time: 3 hours




WHAT'S INCLUDED: 2 professional wilderness guides 5 nights camping 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners, snacks and hot drinks Transport by private minibus National Park fees Tent, backpack and gaiters Sleeping bag, inner sheet and inflatable sleeping mat Emergency communications and group first aid kit

HIGHLIGHTS
Scenic flight to Melaleuca Traversing the impressive Ironbound Range
A full rest day enjoying Little Deadman's Bay
Camping, swimming & trekking along isolated and pristine beaches
Remote, untouched landscapes where you are unlikely to see other people
Learn of the ancient Aboriginal history of the area Discover the unique animals and plants that call this remote wilderness home One of the official Great Walks of Tasmania



Challenge yourself to one of Tasmania's finest long-distance walks, carrying a full pack along the unspoiled wilderness of Australia's southernmost shores. This nine-day, the 85-kilometre walk offers a spectrum of Tasmanian scenes, from empty beaches to towering rainforests and the alpine heights of the Ironbound Range. It's a place of wild scenes and wildlife, with the chance to see wombats, quolls and possibly even the orange-bellied parrot, one of the world's rarest bird species. After a spectacular flight along the coast or mountains to the remote airstrip at Melaleuca in the World Heritage-listed Southwest National Park, you will walk 10 to 15 kilometres each day, carrying up to 20 kilograms and camping at night. The walk has a flexible itinerary that allows for a rest day and time for swims or exploration along the succession of south-coast beaches. Following in the footsteps of early indigenous Australians and ancient seafarers - the South Coast Track was built as an escape route for shipwreck survivors - our knowledgeable guides will lead you through a true wilderness experience and the challenge of a lifetime. If you have a thirst for full pack hikes, have excellent fitness and an open, flexible approach to being in remote areas for multiple days then this could be the perfect hiking adventure for you!

ITINERARY
DAY 1: A compulsory pre-trip briefing is held at 2 pm the day 1 of this trip in Hobart. More details will be provided upon booking.
DAY 2: Hobart to Cox's Bight (Point Eric) Via Melaleuca


Our adventure begins early today as we are transferred to Cambridge Airport. The scenic flight into Melaleuca in the remote southwestern corner of Tasmania is a definite trip highlight. After a quick look around we begin walking to the coastline and today’s destination, Point Eric. On arrival at our water-front campsite, we pitch our tents, collect drinking water and settle in with a hot drink and time for a game of beach cricket, a swim or just a wander along the beach before dinner.
Walking Distance 12km | Walking Time 3-4 hours
DAY 3: Cox's Bight (Point Eric) to Louisa Creek

After breakfast and packing up camp we head out along the beach. Tides dictate this morning’s timing as we skirt around a rocky headland before climbing up onto Sedge and Melaleuca clad plains that draw us inland. There are a number of suitable lunch spots where the tannin-stained fresh water trickles through the ancient quartzite hills. We have a short but steep climb and descent over Red Point Hills and enjoy wonderful panoramic views from the top – today’s high point. In the afternoon we make our muddy way toward Louisa Creek where depending upon our timing, we may camp beneath the towering trees that border this beautiful watercourse.
Walking Distance 11km | Walking Time 5-7 hours
DAY 4: Louisa Creek (Louisa Bay) to Louisa River

Today’s destination is Louisa River which flows close by the base of the impressive Ironbound Range. If timing and conditions are favourable we can enjoy a side trip to the stunning Louisa Bay. Here we can explore, swim and enjoy morning tea before continuing our journey towards the looming Ironbound Range. Our night’s camp is located in the wonderful eucalypt forest that lines the Louisa River. It is a stunning campsite that sets us up for the following day’s early start. The broad river is a favourite swimming spot if the afternoon is warm and a major obstacle after rainfall.
Walking Distance 6km | Walking Time 2 hours
DAY 5: Louisa River to Little Deadman’s Beach via the Ironbound

The mighty Ironbounds!!! Our high point is almost a thousand metres above where we start and finish today. Your guides will have breakfast ready in the predawn darkness and be busy to get the group on the track by sun-up. We climb up the exposed western slopes, over open ground and vegetation stunted by the prevailing westerlies. In fine weather, there are plenty of great rest spots where the views are spectacular beneath us. From the top of the range we may be lucky enough to see the Eastern and Western Arthur Ranges including Federation Peak, through to Mount Anne and all the way to formidable South West Cape and Maatsuyker Island. The broad top of the Ironbound Range commonly receives the harshest conditions known in Tassie and snowfalls, gale force winds and pelting sleet are never unexpected.
This is a long and demanding day and the top is not even halfway, the slippery and muddy descent is through a tangle of lush rainforest which in turn becomes thick Teatree bush as the last few kilometres follow the coastline to a very welcome sight – our campsite at Little Deadman’s Bay.
Walking Distance 13km | Walking Time 7-10 hours
DAY 6: Rest day at Little Deadman’s Bay
Today is the only full rest day on the tour and the only place along the track where an open fire is permitted. It’s a wonderful treat to sit by the glowing embers, read a book, play some cards and let your body relax and recover from the last few days’ activities. Your guides will spend some time today re-supplying from our nearby food-drop.
DAY 7: Little Deadman’s Bay to Osmiridium Beach

Feeling refreshed, we look forward to tackling some of the track’s best mud holes, a challenging rowboat lagoon crossing and walking along the coast’s longest beach. We trek over broad sand dunes, wade across watercourses and climb over headlands letting no obstacles stand in our way! There are a few campsite choices for tonight and your guides will decide where to stay based on the availability of fresh water, the fitness of the group members and their own personal favourite spots where they may know special sights and hidden points of interest.
Walking Distance 11km | Walking Time 4-5 hours
DAY 8: Osmiridium Beach to Granite Beach

This is a favourite day for many people as we wander through wet sclerophyll forest from beach to beach. Today’s short distance means a leisurely lunch with time to wriggle your toes in the sand, swim in the ocean, search for Devonian Fossils, or just sit back and relax. A favourite lunch spot is Surprise Beach, which is just a short distance, if not a little steep, to our afternoon's destination Granite Beach. As we descend onto this bay our eyes are drawn out to the incredible fluted dolerite columns of South Cape. At the eastern end of the bay, our campsite is perched above the cliffs beneath the tea tree and eucalypt canopy. Our water source here cascades off the cliffs onto the beach to make a wonderful, refreshing shower.
Walking Distance 10km | Walking Time 4-5 hours
DAY 9: Granite Beach to South Cape Rivulet

A big day in the hills – We get an early start to make our way over the South Cape Range to our final night’s camp at South Cape Rivulet. We begin with a lengthy climb through the moist forest to the day’s highpoint about 500m above sea level offering beautiful views back along the coast as far as South West Cape if we’re lucky and into the mountains of Pindar’s Peak, Mount LaPerouse and Mount Lilateah. This is a deceptive day with our high point being the first of 7 hills that we climb and descend before stepping into the sand of South Cape Rivulet where we cross the sometimes deep, outlet of the lagoon to our campsite. This is a wonderful day of wet and dry forests, button grass plains, tea tree swamps and dazzling coastal views. The beach at our camp is one of the best along the South Coast for a swim and not many people pass through without enjoying one.
Walking Distance 8Km | Walking Time 6-8 hours
DAY 10: South Cape Rivulet to Cockle Creek

Today is a gentle end to an amazing trip. The morning has us strolling along a couple of picturesque beaches and then up over a headland. The top of the cliffs is a perfect place for a rest while the waves below crash at the base of our lookout. Our 10-day trek concludes at Cockle Creek – this quiet blissful bay has a couple of holiday homes, an information shelter and our bus & driver make a welcoming site waiting to take the group to Hobart. We usually drop you at your accommodation in Hobart at approx 5 pm & after a shower and some clean clothes it’s common for the group to get together, to enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants. An astonishing trip that will truly stay with you for some time to come.
Walking Distance 11km | Walking Time 3-4 hours


WHAT'S INCLUDED








2 professional wilderness guides 8 nights camping 8 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 8 dinners, snacks and hot drinks Food drop provisions along the track Scenic flight to Melaleuca Return transport to Hobart by private minibus National Park fees Tent and inflatable sleeping mat Group camping equipment including all cooking & eating equipment Emergency communications & group first aid kit.