Bushwalk Australia

The Overland Track is accessible to walkers outside the booking season from 1 June – 30 September, but be aware that during September the track is becoming increasingly busy. You must have a Parks Pass, which costs as little as $30 (Backpacker Pass) and can be purchased at any PWS Visitor Centre or online at https://passes.parks.tas.gov.au

Outside the booking period walkers may travel in either direction. However, PWS strongly recommends that all walkers undertake the track from North to South at all times of the year. This supports the management objectives of limiting and arresting the environmental degradation and overcrowding issues experienced prior to a booking season being introduced.

Please be aware that there will be scheduled works on the track in the last couple of weeks of September, restocking gas to huts and cleaning in preparation for the season. Some huts will not be available and you must carry alternative shelter with you - you should always cary a tent anyway. These dates will be notified on the PWS web site, at http://www.parks.tas.gov.au/index.aspx?base=7785.

Remember that Overland Track weather is notoriously unpredictable – and changes rapidly. Most walkers experience a bit of everything during their journey, regardless of the time of year: sunshine, rain, wind and snow. Winter walking should only be attempted by very experienced bushwalkers (snow shoes recommended). Winter days are short (sunrise 8 am / sunset 4 pm) and heavy snow should be anticipated.

Make sure that you register at the registration booth at the commencement your walk. Advise family/friends of your intentions and expectations and set some rules for notifying authorities in the event that you are behind schedule. Mobile phones do not have reception on the Overland Track and PWS Ranger Patrols are sporadic.

For School and community groups we do have a voluntary registration process for the non-booking season to reduce overcrowding. Parks and Wildlife acts to encourage school groups to contact us well in advance of booking flights etc. to ensure that the preparation and planning minimises overcrowding and ensures all safety considerations surrounding completing the Overland Track during winter/ early spring period are covered. Please contact the Overland Track Administrator at overlandtrackadministrator@parks.tas.gov.au.

Enjoy the challenge of walking the Overland Track in winter!