Solomons Jewels Walk – Walls of Jerusalem National Park

Alpine Lakes and Pencil Pines on the Central Plateau

Just beyond Trappers Hut, the track into Walls of Jerusalem National Park reaches Solomons Jewels — a beautiful cluster of small alpine lakes set among ancient pencil pines on Tasmania’s Central Plateau. For walkers who have already tackled the steep climb from the trailhead to Trappers Hut, continuing on to Solomons Jewels is a natural extension and one of the best ways to experience the alpine character of the park without committing to a much longer day. The good news is that once you reach the plateau, the terrain becomes noticeably easier. The final section to the lakes feels more like a reward for the hard climb below than an additional challenge.

Walk Overview

Terrain

The route begins from the Walls of Jerusalem trailhead and follows the same steep forest climb used by walkers heading to Trappers Hut. This lower section is the hardest part of the walk, with a sustained climb over roots, rocks and uneven ground through the forest. Once you reach Trappers Hut and continue onto the Central Plateau, the track eases considerably. The vegetation opens up, the gradient becomes gentler and the walk takes on a much more alpine feel. Solomons Jewels lie roughly 3.5 km from the car park, making the total walk approximately 7 km return.

Difficulty

Solomons Jewels is a hard walk.

The difficulty comes mainly from the steep initial climb rather than the final approach to the lakes. Once on the plateau, the walking becomes comparatively gentle, but the overall distance, elevation gain, alpine conditions and remoteness still make this a walk best suited to reasonably fit and prepared bushwalkers.

Walk Highlights

Solomons Jewels

The highlight is the cluster of small alpine lakes known as Solomons Jewels. Their still waters, surrounding pencil pines and open plateau setting create one of the prettiest landscapes on the lower reaches of the Walls of Jerusalem. On a calm day, the reflections in the water make this a particularly rewarding photography stop.

Pencil Pine Groves

The ancient pencil pines around the lakes are one of the most distinctive features of the walk. These slow-growing trees are characteristic of Tasmania’s high country and give the plateau a very different feel from the forested approach below. Their twisted forms and dark foliage contrast beautifully with the open alpine landscape and small glacial lakes.

Central Plateau Scenery

Reaching Solomons Jewels gives walkers their first real taste of the open Central Plateau environment within Walls of Jerusalem National Park. After the enclosed forest climb, the sudden change to alpine lakes, low vegetation and broad mountain views is one of the most satisfying parts of the walk.

What to Bring

• Plenty of drinking water
• Sturdy walking boots with good grip
• Waterproof jacket
• Warm alpine layers
• Food and snacks for a 4–5 hour outing
• Sun protection
• Map, GPS or offline navigation
• Fully charged phone
• Personal Locator Beacon for additional safety

Safety

Is the Walk Suitable for Children?

Not generally recommended for young children.

The steep climb, overall distance and alpine weather exposure make this a demanding day for inexperienced walkers. Older, fit children or teenagers with bushwalking experience may be capable of completing the walk in suitable conditions.

Are Dogs Allowed?

No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted within Walls of Jerusalem National Park.

Getting There

The Solomons Jewels Walk begins from the main Walls of Jerusalem National Park car park. From Deloraine, travel west through Mole Creek and continue toward the Mersey Valley. Follow Mersey Forest Road toward Lake Rowallan, then take the signposted access road to the Walls of Jerusalem trailhead. The final section is gravel, and conditions can vary, so drive according to the road and weather conditions.

Facilities

Facilities at the trailhead are basic and include:

• Car parking
• Walker registration facilities

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

Why Walk to Solomons Jewels?

Solomons Jewels is one of the best shorter introductions to the alpine landscapes of Walls of Jerusalem National Park. The climb is demanding, but once you reach the plateau the character of the walk changes completely. Instead of enclosed forest and steep climbing, you’re rewarded with quiet alpine lakes, ancient pencil pines and the broad open scenery of Tasmania’s Central Plateau.

For walkers who want a genuine Walls of Jerusalem experience without committing to an overnight trip, Solomons Jewels is an excellent turnaround point.