Hartz Peak Walk – Hartz Mountains National Park

The Big One in the Hartz Range

For walkers with a full half-day to spare, Hartz Peak is the standout walk in Hartz Mountains National Park and one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. The track climbs through a landscape genuinely carved by glaciers — cirques, tarns and dolerite outcrops — to a 1,255-metre summit with views stretching south toward Tasmania’s remote south-west wilderness on a clear day. It’s a serious undertaking rather than a casual stroll, with real elevation gain and an exposed summit ridge, but it’s also one of the most accessible true mountain summits in southern Tasmania.

Walk Overview

Terrain

From the Day Visitor Centre, the Hartz Peak track initially follows the same route as the walks to Lake Esperance and Hartz Pass before continuing toward the peak itself. Expect a steady and sustained climb through subalpine scrub and moorland, sections of rocky steps and increasingly exposed alpine terrain as you gain elevation. The final push follows an exposed rocky ridge toward the summit cairn. The terrain underfoot is generally sound, but sturdy footwear is essential and additional care is required when rocks are wet or conditions become windy.

Difficulty

Hartz Peak is a hard walk.

This is a genuine mountain walk involving sustained climbing, exposed sections near the summit and the possibility of rapidly changing alpine weather. It should not be underestimated simply because it is included among Tasmania’s Great Short Walks.

Walk Highlights

The Summit View

At 1,255 metres above sea level, Hartz Peak provides magnificent views across glacially carved mountain country toward Tasmania’s south-west wilderness. In clear conditions, the summit panorama is one of the great rewards of walking in southern Tasmania.

Glacial Landscape

The cirques, tarns and dramatic dolerite outcrops along the route are reminders of the ice ages that helped shape the Hartz Range. As you climb, the landscape becomes increasingly alpine and noticeably different from the forested country at lower elevations.

Hartz Pass

Before the final climb to Hartz Peak, the route passes Hartz Pass. The pass is an excellent destination in its own right and provides a sensible turnaround point for walkers who want impressive mountain views without tackling the exposed final climb to the summit.

What to Bring

• Sturdy walking boots with good grip
• Waterproof jacket
• Warm layers suitable for alpine conditions
• Plenty of drinking water
• Food and snacks for a 3–5 hour walk
• Sun protection
• Map, GPS or offline navigation
• Fully charged mobile phone
• Basic first-aid supplies

Safety

Is the Walk Suitable for Children?

Hartz Peak is not recommended for young children. The sustained climb, rocky terrain, exposed summit ridge and genuine alpine weather risk make this walk better suited to fit and experienced walkers. Older teenagers with good bushwalking experience may be capable of completing the walk in suitable conditions.

Are Dogs Allowed?

No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted in Hartz Mountains National Park.

Getting There

Hartz Peak begins from the Hartz Mountains National Park Day Visitor Centre at the end of Hartz Road. From Hobart, allow approximately 90 minutes. Travel south through the Huon Valley toward Geeveston, then follow Arve Road (C632) for approximately 13 km to the Hartz Road turn-off. Continue along Hartz Road for approximately another 13 km to the Day Visitor Centre and car park. The final section is unsealed, so drive according to road and weather conditions.

Facilities

Facilities at the Day Visitor Centre include:

• Car parking
• Shelter
• Drop toilets
• Walker registration facilities

There are no facilities once you leave the trailhead, so carry everything you need for the full walk.

Why Walk to Hartz Peak?

Hartz Peak offers one of the most rewarding true summit experiences within relatively easy reach of Hobart. In a single half-day walk, you can experience glacial lakes, alpine moorland, dolerite mountain scenery, an exposed summit ridge and extraordinary views toward Tasmania’s south-west wilderness. It demands considerably more effort and preparation than the shorter walks in Hartz Mountains National Park, but for capable walkers in good weather, Hartz Peak is unquestionably the park’s signature walk.