The 13 Tasmanian hikes you can smash out in a day

Ready to hit the trail? No overnight gear required.

Tasmania is a hiker’s paradise, packed with trails that take you from alpine peaks to wild coastlines – all in a single day. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, summiting mountains or just looking for an easy-breezy stroll, these 13 hikes have got you covered. Lace up your boots, charge your camera and get ready to tackle Tasmania’s best day hikes.

1. Cape Hauy

4 hours return | 9.4 kilometres | Grade 3

This track delivers you to the edge of the world. (Image: Pierre Destribats)

Get a taste of the legendary Three Capes Track – one of Tasmania’s best hikes – on this heart-pumping hike through Tasman National Park. Wander past wildflowers and coastal heath before the track delivers you to the edge of the world – literally. Peer down at the towering sea cliffs and watch for seals and dolphins frolicking below.

2. Cape Queen Elizabeth Walk

4 hours return | 13 kilometres | Grade 3

This hike is packed with photo ops. (Image: Jess Bonde)

Sandy tracks, towering cliffs and that iconic Bruny Island Neck – this hike is packed with photo ops. Stop by Big Lagoon, take in the dramatic Bligh Rocks, and when you’re done, reward yourself with some of Bruny’s finest: fresh oysters from Get Shucked or a cheesy feast at Bruny Island Cheese & Beer Co.

3. Lake Esperance

1.5–2 hours return | 3.4 kilometres | Grade 3

Hidden in the heart of Hartz Mountains National Park, Lake Esperance is a glacial gem. The boardwalk keeps things easy while giving you access to breathtaking alpine scenery. Expect crisp mountain air and jaw-dropping views stretching across southeast Tasmania.

4. South Cape Bay

4 hours return | 15.4 kilometres | Grade 3

South Cape Bay is quite literally at the end of Australia’s most southerly road. (Image: Tourism Tasmania/Geoffrey Lea)

Drive as far south as the road will take you to Cockle Creek, then walk the rest of the way to the roaring Southern Ocean. This hike is all about contrasts: lush bushland, dramatic cliffs and a wild beach where the waves have travelled uninterrupted from Antarctica. It’s also home to one of the greatest campsites in Australia.

5. Meander Falls

4.5–6 hours return | 10 kilometres | Grade 4

Chasing waterfalls? This one’s a beauty. The track follows the Meander River through the dense forests of the Great Western Tiers before revealing a stunning 130-metre waterfall tumbling down a sheer rock face. It’s a tough trek, but oh-so worth it.

6. Alpine Village to Little Hell

1.5 hours return | 5.5 kilometres | Grade 3

Don’t let the name scare you – this is one hell of a rewarding hike. Follow a cross-country ski trail (minus the snow) through rolling plains dotted with wildflowers before reaching a summit with sweeping views of Stacks Bluff.

7. Liffey Falls

45 minutes return | 2 kilometres | Grade 2

A short and sweet rainforest wander leading to some of Tasmania’s most picturesque waterfalls. Think lush ferns, towering eucalypts and the soothing sounds of cascading water. Just an hour from Launceston, this one’s a no-brainer.

8. Wineglass Bay to Hazards Beach

4–5 hours circuit | 11 kilometres | Grade 4

Why stop at Wineglass Bay? (Image: Chad Hewson)

Wineglass Bay is a showstopper, but why stop there? Cross the Freycinet Peninsula to the secluded shores of Hazards Beach, where you can sink your toes into the sand before looping back via a she-oak forest lining Great Oyster Bay.

9. Apsley River Waterhole and Gorge

4–5 hours circuit | 5.6–7 kilometres | Grade 2 – 3

Take a mid-hike dip here. (Image: Jamie Douros/Camille Helm)

Hiking and swimming? Yes, please. This East Coast gem features a natural waterhole that is perfect for a mid-hike dip. Keep an eye out for rock formations and native wildlife as you weave your way through Apsley Gorge.

10. Bishop and Clerk

4–5 hours return | 11 kilometres | Grade 4

While challenging, this hike is worth every step. (Image: Tourism Tasmania and Robb Burnett)

Bishop and Clerk is one of Tasmania’s more challenging hikes, but the payoff? Insane ocean views stretching across the Tasman Sea. Clamber up rocky slopes, soak in the scenery and maybe even spot some of Maria Island’s famous wombats along the way.

11. Dove Lake

2–3 hours return | 6 kilometres | Grade 3

A trip to Cradle Mountain isn’t complete without a stop at Dove Lake. (Image: Sean Scott Photography)

The ultimate Cradle Mountain classic. Follow a well-formed track around this glacial lake, taking in views of Tasmania’s most famous peak, ancient rainforest and even a charming old boat shed.

12. Mount Rufus

7-hour circuit | 19 kilometres | Grade 4

For those who like a challenge, Mount Rufus delivers. Trek through alpine meadows, past twisted snow gums, and up to an epic vantage point overlooking Lake St Clair, Mt Olympus and Frenchman’s Cap.

13. Hogarth Falls

40–50 minutes return | 2.4 kilometres | Grade 2

An easy rainforest stroll near Strahan with a beautiful waterfall at the end. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a platypus paddling in the creek.