Creepy Crawly Nature Trail
- August 4, 2026
A short, fully boardwalked loop through moss-draped rainforest just off Scotts Peak Road, popular with walkers heading to the Mount…
Edgar Dam Walk is an easy alpine walk in the upper reaches of Mount Field National Park, leading to the tranquil waters of Edgar Dam. Surrounded by snow gums, alpine heath and ancient pencil pines, this short walk offers a peaceful escape and a very different experience to the rainforest tracks near the park entrance.
Originally constructed to support Tasmania’s hydro-electric scheme, Edgar Dam now provides a scenic destination for walkers exploring the Lake Dobson area. The gentle gradient and beautiful mountain scenery make it an excellent option for families and visitors wanting to experience Mount Field’s alpine landscape without undertaking a strenuous hike.
| Location | Mount Field National Park, Tasmania |
| Distance | Approximately 3 km return |
| Time | Approximately 1–1.5 hours |
| Difficulty | Easy – Grade 2 |
| Track Type | Return walk |
| Track Surface | Well-formed walking track with some boardwalk sections and gentle gradients |
| Best Time | Late spring through autumn. Snow and ice may affect access during winter. |
The walk begins near the Lake Dobson car park and follows a well-marked track through open alpine woodland and heath. Snow gums, pandani and ancient pencil pines line the route, while occasional clearings provide attractive views across the surrounding highlands.
The track remains relatively gentle throughout, making it suitable for walkers of most abilities. After a gradual climb and several easy undulations, the route reaches the peaceful waters of Edgar Dam.
Take time to wander along the dam wall and enjoy the quiet alpine setting before returning along the same track.
The Edgar Dam Walk is rated Grade 2 – Easy. The track is well maintained and involves only gentle elevation changes. While physically straightforward, the alpine environment means walkers should still be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
The tranquil reservoir is surrounded by alpine vegetation and often reflects the surrounding mountains on calm days, making it a wonderful destination for photography.
The walk passes through classic Tasmanian alpine vegetation including snow gums, pandani, alpine heath and ancient pencil pines that have survived in this harsh environment for centuries.
Currawongs, thornbills and other alpine birds are regularly seen along the track, while wallabies and pademelons occasionally graze around the open areas near the dam.
Yes. The Edgar Dam Walk is suitable for families with children who are comfortable walking for around an hour. The gentle gradients make it one of the easier alpine walks in Mount Field National Park.
No. Dogs and other domestic animals are not permitted within Mount Field National Park.
Drive to the Lake Dobson car park by following Lake Dobson Road from the Mount Field Visitor Centre. The unsealed road climbs approximately 16 kilometres into the alpine section of the park and is generally suitable for conventional vehicles when open.
The Edgar Dam Track begins from the walking-track network adjacent to the Lake Dobson day-use area.
Public toilets, a day shelter and picnic facilities are available at the Lake Dobson car park. There are no facilities along the walking track.
The Edgar Dam Walk is one of Mount Field’s hidden gems, providing an easy introduction to Tasmania’s alpine environment without the steep climbs required by many of the park’s longer hikes.
With peaceful mountain scenery, fascinating alpine vegetation and a tranquil historic reservoir, it makes an ideal addition to any visit to the Lake Dobson area and complements the nearby Lake Dobson Nature Walk perfectly.
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