Lake Osborne is one of the highlights of Hartz Mountains National Park, offering an easy walk through rainforest, alpine woodland and open moorland to a picturesque glacial lake surrounded by ancient King Billy pines.
As one of Tasmania’s official 60 Great Short Walks, the Lake Osborne Walk provides an excellent introduction to the unique alpine landscapes of southern Tasmania. Interpretive signs along the way explain the area’s fascinating geology, flora and history, making this an enjoyable walk for visitors of all ages.
| Location | Hartz Mountains National Park, Tasmania |
| Distance | Approximately 2 km return |
| Time | Approximately 45 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy – Grade 2 |
| Track Type | Return walk |
| Track Surface | Compacted walking track with boardwalk sections and occasional steps |
| Best Time | Late spring through autumn. Snow is common during winter and road closures may occur. |
Beginning at the main Hartz Mountains car park, the track climbs gently through cool rainforest filled with myrtle, sassafras and towering pandani before emerging onto the open Hartz Plateau. Along the way, interpretive signs explain the remarkable alpine plants and glacial history of the area.
Beyond the forest, the landscape opens into alpine woodland and moorland with impressive views towards the rugged Devil’s Backbone ridge. The final section leads to beautiful Lake Osborne, a tranquil glacial lake fringed by ancient King Billy pines.
A seat beside the lake provides the perfect place to relax before retracing your steps to the car park.
The Lake Osborne Walk is rated Grade 2 – Easy. The track is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, with only a gentle climb and a few short stepped sections. While the walking is straightforward, visitors should remember they are in an alpine environment where weather conditions can change rapidly.
This picturesque glacial lake is surrounded by ancient King Billy pines and provides a peaceful setting for photography, birdwatching or simply enjoying the tranquillity of Hartz Mountains National Park.
The walk passes through magnificent stands of pandani, myrtle and sassafras before emerging onto the alpine plateau. Pandani are unique to Tasmania and are the tallest heath plants in the world.
Open moorland, glacial features and sweeping mountain views create an ever-changing landscape that contrasts beautifully with the dense rainforest lower on the track.
Yes. The gentle track is suitable for families and children who are comfortable walking for around 45 minutes. Warm clothing should be carried regardless of the season.
No. Dogs and other domestic animals are not permitted within Hartz Mountains National Park.
From Hobart, travel south to Geeveston, then follow Arve Road before turning onto the signed Hartz Mountains Road. The final 10.5 kilometres are unsealed and climb steadily to the main car park. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours from Hobart.
The Lake Osborne Walk begins from the northern end of the main car park and is clearly signposted.
Public toilets, picnic tables and barbecues are available at the Hartz Mountains day-use area. There are no camping facilities within the national park, and fuel stoves are required as open fires are prohibited.
Lake Osborne is one of southern Tasmania’s finest short alpine walks, offering a rewarding combination of rainforest, alpine woodland and glacial scenery in less than an hour.
Whether you’re exploring Hartz Mountains National Park for the first time or looking for a gentle family-friendly adventure, this walk showcases many of Tasmania’s most distinctive alpine landscapes without requiring a strenuous climb.
