Our Itinerary
Day 1- Our journey begins at Waldheim in Cradle Valley and we set off to experience the ancient temperate rainforests and incredible glacially carved Crater Lake. After this the steepest section of the whole overland track is behind us. We are rewarded at Marion’s lookout with spectacular views of Cradle Mountain and Lake Dove. We continue around the base of Cradle Mountain to the majestic Waterfall Valley.
Day 2- Today there is an optional side trip to Lake Will. As we continue to explore this wonderful natural area we see plains of button grass with ancient Pencil Pines with their roots still in the water. We walk onwards and the stately Mount Pelion West is directly ahead and the peaks of Cradle Mountain and Barn Bluff are behind us.
Day 3 – We start with a slow descent around the base of Mount Pelion West and walk towards the Forth River. We have a short rest at Frog Lake then a gentle ascent out of the valley onto the lovely Pelion Plains. There are many side trips available today in this area to swimming holes or abandoned copper mines.
Day 4 – Today we climb to Pelion’s Gap and take a moment to enjoy the magnificent views to the North and South. If you feel like a challenge there is an optional climb to Mount Ossa or alternatively we have some additional side trips from Pelions Gap on offer.
Day 5 – We explore the wonderful waterfalls and majestic forests today. We leave Kia Ora hut and walk to Du Cane to examine an old hut that remains from animal trapping days. We investigate the 2000 year old King Billy Pines in the old forest in the National Park. Lunch is shared by a waterfall and then we head over Du Cane Gap to descend to Windy Ridge Hut.
Day 6 – We are rewarded today at the end of our journey when we finally reach Australia’s deepest natural lake, Lake St Clair. It is shaped by glaciers and surrounded by eucalypt forests a truly spectacular environment. At Narcissus we begin our spectacular seventeen kilometre cruise back to Cynthia Bay on board the Idaclair cruise. The final part of our trip takes us through the trout fishing mecca of the highland lakes towards the Quamby Estate. You may choose to stay on in beautiful Tasmania or begin your journey home having completed an iconic Aussie challenge.
Inclusions:
□ Strength and Conditioning Program prepared by our Aurora Exercise Physiologists specifically for this adventure – 12 week Remote Preparation Program
□ Personal travel insurance
□ Hotel accommodation at the beginning and end of the adventure
□ Return transfers between Launceston and the walk base
□ Breakfast on the day of departure
□ 5 nights accommodation in our five Cradle Huts – twin share
□ All meals and non-alcoholic beverages, plus a limited selection of Tasmanian wines
□ National Park and Overland Track passes
□ Boat transfer across Lake St Clair
□ Use of a backpack and Gore-tex jacket for the duration of the walk
□ Sleeping bags, pillows and a comfortable mattress at each hut
□ Sleeping sheet and pillowcase to carry with you
□ Two Tasmanian guides for the duration of the walk and your Aurora leader/wilderness medic.
□ Return transfers between Launceston and the walk base
□ Breakfast on the day of departure
Exclusions:
□ Personal expenses such as phone call costs, beverages and meals at the hotels
□ Return airfare to Tasmania
□ Boots and a small amount of personal trek clothing
