World ExpeditionsBig Adventures. Small Footprint.https://assets.worldexpeditions.com/BlogOverland Track Permits: what you need to knowhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/5089/overland-track-permits-what-you-need-to-knowDestinations,Australia, New Zealand &amp; the Pacific,AustraliaTue, 07 Jun 2022 04:50:23 GMT<p><strong>Did you know less than 60 permits* are available a day to trekkers on Australia's Overland Track during the summer season? Here's what you need to know about securing your permits to walk Tasmania's world-renowned trail.</strong></p> <p>If you have your sights set on completing the <a href="https://www.tasmanianexpeditions.com.au/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Overland+Track+Cradle" target="_blank">Overland Track</a> in Tasmania but are unsure how the permit system works, we have you covered. This guide will give you the ins and outs of obtaining a permit for <a href="https://www.tasmanianexpeditions.com.au/Trekking-Hiking/The-Overland-Track" target="_blank">guided</a> and <a href="https://www.tasmanianexpeditions.com.au/advanced-search?searchKeywords=overland+self+guided" target="_blank">self-guided walks</a> on the track, what it covers, why they are necessary, when the permits are released and what options you have if you miss out.</p> <h2>Organising your Overland Track permits</h2> <p>You are required to have a permit pass when walking the Overland Track, however, choosing a trusted company to guide you on the trail takes the hassle out of organising this with the permit and the Cradle-Mountain-St Clair National Park pass covered.<br /> <br /> As an Australian operator on the trail since 1989, World Expeditions secures the National Park passes and associated track passes each year for all their trekkers. It is a process that takes place well in advance before the season commences to ensure that when you want to go, you can get them locked in. </p> <p>However, permits and passes are issued in limited supply, so booking in early is your best shot at securing them. This is especially the case if opting for a self-guided walk. These permits are released from July 1 and tend to sell out within days during the peak season.</p> <p><em>*Note: limited permits are available a day to trekkers on the track during the summer season (October to May) – 34 of which are for independent walkers. You can visit the <a href="https://parks.tas.gov.au/" target="_blank">Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Services website</a> for the latest information.</em></p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/walking-the-overland-track-faqs" target="_blank"><strong>RELATED: Walking the Overland Track FAQs</strong></a></p> <div> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/6hrKINIAebU?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div>   <h2>Why do I need a permit to walk the Overland Track?</h2> <p>An Overland Track permit helps avoid overcrowding on the track and the fee contributes to the sustainable management of the track.</p> <p>As most of the track is not serviceable by road, the permits manage the record of walkers entering the fragile environment to account for the impact of the track and surrounding wilderness. The preservation of the wilderness is essential to safeguard the area for its flora and fauna and for people to experience the beauty of Tasmania's Wilderness World Heritage Area.</p> <p>Everyone who walks the Overland Track will need to purchase an Overland Track Permit if planning to do it from October to May. However, for the months of June to September, while no permit is needed, you do need to register.</p> <h2>What about the National Parks pass?</h2> <p>All walkers are also required to possess a current Tasmanian National Parks Pass regardless of the time of year.</p> <h2>What happens if I miss out on a self-guided permit?</h2> <p>Trying to secure permits for a self-guided walk on the Overland Track is like booking tickets for the footy grand final, it's either get in quick or miss out. Luckily, you won't have the same problem with our guided walks. So if you missed out on a permit on your preferred date, don't stress! You can jump onto our guided Overland Track where we have permits secured in advance.</p> <p>If you prefer a self-guided walk, you can explore the Overland Track's underrated neighbour, <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=walls+of+jerusalem" target="_blank">Walls of Jerusalem</a>. This more remote World Heritage alpine wilderness of Tasmania does not require the purchase of permits, with equally spectacular natural landscapes that are only accessible on foot.</p> <p>Plus, it attracts far fewer visitors than the Overland Track making it very alluring for those who want to get away from it all. Read more about the Walls of Jerusalem walk versus the Overland Track in this <a href="https://www.tasmanianexpeditions.com.au/Blog/the-overland-track-vs-walls-of-jerusalem" target="_blank">blog post</a>.</p> <h2>Does my Overland Track permit confirm a spot in the huts on the track?</h2> <p>While your booking confirms your place and date of departure, when walking self-guided, this does not guarantee a place in the huts along the track.<br /> <br /> The public huts cannot be booked and are available on a first-come-first-serve basis, therefore walkers are required to carry a tent if a hut is full. But rest assured that when travelling with Tasmanian Expeditions, quality gear use is part of the package so you aren't caught out in bad weather.</p> <p>If camping-based trekking isn't your thing, you can experience a private luxury hut stay on the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Walking/Cradle-Huts-Overland-Track" target="_blank">Cradle Huts Overland Track trip</a> to add a little more comfort to your walking holiday. The exclusive huts are well hidden away from the public huts and campsites with the luxury of returning to a hot shower, a potbelly heater, comfy beds and a Tassie wine after each day's walk on the Overland Track.</p> <h2>Does my permit include transport transfer to and from the track?</h2> <p>If you purchase your permit independently, the Overland Track permit fee does not include transport to/from the track, or the privately-owned Lake St Clair Ferry. It would be your responsibility to organise these transport links. However, if travelling with an experienced operator, like World Expeditions, transfers can easily be organised.</p> <h2>Ways to experience the Overland Track & Cradle Mountain area</h2> <p>The Overland Track is internationally renowned, home to the famous Cradle Mountain and Tasmania’s highest mountain Mt Ossa at 1617 metres. The 65-kilometre trail begins at Ronny Creek with the majestic Cradle Mountain towering in the distance. Winding through ancient rainforests, alpine meadows, waterfalls and mountain ranges leading to the summit. Viewing the native endemic flora and wildlife the track ends at scenic Lake St Clair.</p> <p>The track can be experienced in the main season with our guides or self-guided where all the logistics, food (you get to choose from a menu!), equipment, support and passes are included. You can choose from camping or use <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Walking/Cradle-Huts-Overland-Track" target="_blank">private huts</a> along the track. It can also be <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Trekking-Walking/Overland-Track-Winter-Trek" target="_blank">explored in the winter</a> for a guided walk into a white snowy wonderland where you can try out snowshoeing. <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=overland+track+cradle" target="_blank"><strong>View our range of trips.</strong></a></p> <p>Whichever walking experience on the Overland Track you choose – guided, self-guided, in summer or winter, staying in tents or private huts, rest assured your National Park passes will be provided to you when booking with us in advance. But don't leave your decision too long as they do sell out!</p> <p><em>Last updated 7 June 2022.</em></p> </div> 5089Walking the Overland Track FAQshttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3790/walking-the-overland-track-faqsActivities,Trekking/Walking,Destinations,Australia, New Zealand &amp; the Pacific,Australia,Gear and Training TipsWed, 09 Jun 2021 05:45:00 GMT<p>One of the main takeaways from walking Australia's iconic <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Trekking-Hiking/The-Overland-Track" target="_blank">Overland Track</a> is the sense of accomplishment that comes with it, but it doesn't come without its challenges.<br /> <br /> You'll be carrying a 15-20kg pack as you traverse past incredible dolerite peaks and through sublime myrtle-beech rainforest. You'll climb Tasmania's most iconic peaks, persevering in unpredictable highland weather and proving to yourself that with persistence and drive, you can do almost anything. Not a bad by-product from a 6-day trek, right?<br /> <br /> If you're keen to walk the Overland Track and explore the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageNumber=1&pageSize=15&categories=AUS&searchKeywords=Cradle" target="_blank">Cradle Mountain region</a>, see what to expect on the trail below with our most frequently asked questions, including information about the terrain, campsites, water facilities, phone reception and more.</p> <div style="margin-left: 20px;"><span style="color:#666666;">QUICK LINKS:</span><br /> <span style="color:#153d25;">THE TRACK</span><br /> <a href="#1">• When is the best time to walk the Overland Track?</a><br /> <a href="#2">• What flora and fauna can I expect to see on the Overland Track?</a><br /> <a href="#3">• What is the terrain like on the Overland Track?</a><br /> <a href="#4">• Are there leeches on the Overland Track?</a><br /> <span style="color:#153d25;">GEAR & FOOD</span><br /> <a href="#5">• What kind of hiking boots should I wear on the Overland Track?</a><br /> <a href="#6">• What day pack do we need?</a><br /> <a href="#7">• Should I bring trekking poles?</a><br /> <a href="#8">• Do I need water purification tablets on the Overland Track?</a><br /> <a href="#9">• What type of food do we eat on these trips?</a><br /> <span style="color:#153d25;">FITNESS & PREPARATION</span><br /> <a href="#10">• How fit do I need to be to complete the full track?</a><br /> <a href="#11">• How should I prepare for my Overland trek?</a><br /> <a href="#12">• If I prefer travelling independently, would a self-guided trip be for me?</a><br /> <a href="#13">• Do I need to organise my own permits on the Overland Track?</a><br /> <span style="color:#153d25;">CAMPSITES, TENTS & FACILITIES</span><br /> <a href="#14">• What are the campsites like on the Overland Track?</a><br /> <a href="#15">• Are single tents available?</a><br /> <a href="#16">• Is there luggage storage?</a><br /> <a href="#17">• What shower facilities are available on the track?</a><br /> <a href="#18">• Can we charge phones and cameras on the Overland Track?</a><br /> <a href="#19">• Will I have phone reception?</a><br /> <a href="#20">• What is the Leave No Trace policy?</a></div>   <h3 id="1"><span style="color:#949e17;">THE TRACK</span><br /> <strong></strong></h3> <h4 id="1"><strong>When is the best time to walk the Overland Track?</strong></h4> <p>The peak season to <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Trekking-Hiking/The-Overland-Track" target="_blank">walk the Overland Track</a> is in the summer months of December to February. However, trekking in the shoulder seasons and even during Winter can provide a unique and memorable experience that is worth considering. For a detailed guide on when to trek the Overland Track, check out this article <a href="http://blog.tasmanianexpeditions.com.au/when-is-the-best-time-to-walk-the-overland-track/" target="_blank">when to trek the Overland Track</a>, which details the seasonal nuances for each month.</p> <h4 id="2"><strong>What flora and fauna can I expect to see on the Overland Track?</strong></h4> <p>The Overland Track is a unique landscape offering a variety of localized climates, with a surprising amount of life that thrives in the National Park. <a href="https://www.tasmanianexpeditions.com.au/Blog/overland-track-flora-fauna" target="_blank">Find out more about the flora and fauna you can expect to see on the trail</a>.</p> <h4 id="3"><strong>What is the terrain like on the Overland Track?</strong></h4> <p>The terrain is rugged and remote. Tracks may be rough and steep in sections. Over the trip, you will walk along boardwalks, up and down steps, through overgrown forests, through muddy sections and if you choose some of the side trips you will scramble over rocks.</p> <h4 id="4"><strong>Are there leeches on the Overland Track? </strong></h4> <p>It’s not uncommon to encounter leeches on the Overland Track, particularly in areas with a lot of leaf foliage and tree coverage. Leeches tend to breed in warm moist areas, so can be spotted during the summer months in marshy areas. Leech bites do not hurt, however, if they bother you, we suggest bringing a salt solution to remove them from your skin if you come into contact with them.</p> <h3><span style="color:#949e17;">GEAR & FOOD</span></h3> <h4 id="5"><strong>What kind of hiking boots should I wear on the Overland Track?</strong></h4> <p>We highly recommend that you have high cut hiking boots for this trail. There are lots of slippery tree roots in the rainforest areas, so ankle support will be beneficial. Also, you may encounter mud along the way, so if they are waterproof, you will hopefully have nice dry feet at the end of the day.</p> <h4 id="6"><strong>What day pack do I need? </strong></h4> <p>The day pack that we recommend for the Overland Track should be a small compressible day pack that folds down to as small as your hand if not smaller. This is only to be used when you do side trips, as you will leave your 70-90L backpack at the trailhead and return to it after the side trip. It is not mandatory that you have the day pack, but we find that it is convenient to have one. An example of what we suggest for a daypack is the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack.</p> <h4 id="7"><strong>Should I bring trekking poles?</strong></h4> <p>Hiking poles can definitely assist you with going up and down the inclines and for stability in mud or slippery tree roots. If you have not used them previously, we recommend that you do some training with them before you head out on the hike.</p> <h4 id="8"><strong>Do I need water purification tablets on the Overland Track? </strong></h4> <p>Tasmania prides itself on clean pure water and most of the water along the track is safe to drink without purifying. Fresh rainwater tanks supplied by Parks and Wildlife can be found at each of the campsites, and you can also fill up your water bottle at many of the springs along the way.</p> <h4 id="9"><strong>What type of food do we eat on these trips? </strong></h4> <p>You’d be surprised how much food you’ll eat after a day’s trekking along the Overland Track. Our guides are experienced when it comes to preparing meals along the Overland Track. Thanks to a food drop on day 3, we are able to have fresh produce every night along the trail. Lunches usually consist of vegetable wraps with hams, chicken or salami, while evening meals can vary from curries, stroganoff and pasta.</p> <p>Deserts include improvised apple pie, and even a chocolate mousse if you’re lucky! Start your day with a hearty porridge or muesli, with snacks throughout the day including fruit and nuts, muesli bars and some fruit.</p> <p>As this is a full pack adventure, each trekker is required to carry a portion of the group’s food, whether it be a couple of cucumbers, lettuce heads or a bag of pasta. All types of dietary requirements are catered for, including vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free and nut-free.</p> <p>On the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Walking/Cradle-Huts-Overland-Track">Cradle Huts version</a> of the Overland Track, more gourmet meals can be expected, including antipasto platters, minestrone soups and risottos.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Y6D8NymLoSA?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div> <h2> </h2> <h3><span style="color:#949e17;">FITNESS & PREPARATION</span></h3> <h4 id="10"><strong>How fit do I need to be to complete the full track?</strong></h4> <p>You will need a good level of fitness and must be in good health. You will be carrying a full pack of around 15-20kg and trekking for up to six or seven hours a day. Over the trip you will walk along boardwalks, up and down steps, through overgrown forests and through muddy sections.</p> <p>The terrain can get rugged and steep with potential variable weather conditions. This trek should not be underestimated as it can be tough and challenging.</p> <h4 id="11"><strong>How should I prepare for my Overland trek? </strong></h4> <p>We recommend one hour of strenuous exercise 3-4 times per week (this can be cycling, jogging or walking) interspersed with relatively demanding bushwalks carrying a full pack weight (up to 20kg).</p> <p>At least once a week, you should walk with a weighted day pack (5–7kg) for several hours for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. The best exercise is multi-day bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents and in variable weather conditions.</p> <h4 id="12"><strong>If I prefer travelling independently, would a self-guided trip be for me?</strong></h4> <p>Self-guided trips require individuals to use problem-solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. It is recommended that you are comfortable in the outdoors, with map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!). The trail is marked but with variable weather conditions, you need to be adept at route finding and map reading.</p> <h4 id="13"><strong>Do I need to organise my own permits on the Overland Track?</strong></h4> <p>You are required to have a permit if walking the Overland Track, however, choosing a trusted and experienced operator on the trail takes the hassle of organising this with the permit and National Park Pass costs included in the trip price.</p> <p>World Expeditions secures the National Park passes and associated track passes each year for all their trekkers. It is a process that takes place well in advance before the season commences to ensure when you want to go, they are available as passes are issued in limited supplies.</p> <p>If opting for a self-guided walk, it is best to book well in advance as permits for these are released from July 1 and tend to sell out during the peak season. Less than 60 permits are available a day to trekkers on the track during the season (May – October) to avoid overcrowding and for sustainable management of the track, 34 of which are for independent walkers. <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/overland-track-permits-what-you-need-to-know" target="_blank">Read more about securing your Overland permits in this blog post.</a></p> <h3><span style="color:#949e17;">CAMPSITES, TENTS & FACILITIES</span></h3> <h4 id="14"><strong>What are the campsites like on the Overland Track?</strong></h4> <p>If completing the full Overland Track, five nights of the trip will be spent along the track at designated commercial campsite areas. These wilderness areas have timber platforms for tents to be pitched on. There are nearby rainwater tanks and composting toilet facilities.</p> <p>Tasmanian Expeditions provides strong, 2-person bushwalking tents (twin-share), which provide each occupant with a personal access door and vestibule for individual use. They are high quality 3-4 season tents which have been trialled and tested to withstand all weather conditions that may be encountered in Tassie.</p> <p>The tents weigh between 2 and 2.5kg and this weight is shared equally by each occupant.</p> <h4 id="15"><strong>Are single tents available? </strong></h4> <p>Unfortunately, we do not have a single tent supplement on our Overland Track trips. While we can certainly put a request for a single tent on your reservation, this cannot be guaranteed. It depends on the makeup of the group and the number of people booked on the departure. Travellers who have a single tent will also find that a single tent is heavier than carrying half of a 2-man tent.</p> <h4 id="16"><strong>Is there luggage storage? </strong></h4> <p>If you are flying into Launceston and have excess baggage you do not want to take with you on your trip, we are able to store these at no cost at our Launceston office in Invermay. While there is not a separate secure luggage room, our offices are secure and we have had no issues of missing items in over 40 years of operation. If you would like a secured luggage room, we recommend asking your hotel if this facility is available.</p> <h4 id="17"><strong>What shower facilities are available? </strong></h4> <p>Unfortunately, there are no shower facilities on the camping expeditions along the Overland Track. For those who are concerned about washing, the closest you’ll come to a bath are the alpine lakes that are accessible each day, where you can have a quick refreshing dip. However, for a real cleanse we recommend you bring baby wipes (remember to take them out with you as well!).</p> <p>If a hot shower at the end of each day is a ‘make or break’ component for you, consider joining the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Walking/Cradle-Huts-Overland-Track">Cradle Huts version</a> of the Overland Track. This version has hot showers available each night at the cabins.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/tyQAV5sw7eg?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div> <h4 id="18"><strong><br /> Can we charge phones and cameras on the Overland Track? </strong></h4> <p>Unfortunately, there are no charging facilities at any of the huts along the Overland Track. We recommend bringing extra batteries or solar chargers for your phones. To conserve battery power on your mobile devices, turn your phones into flight mode.</p> <h4 id="19"><strong>Will I have phone reception? </strong></h4> <p>As the Overland Track is renowned as being a true wilderness walk, you cannot expect phone reception while on the trail. For trekkers who summit Mount Ossa and Cradle Mountain, there is sometimes sporadic phone reception. However, this cannot be relied upon.</p> <p>Our guides carry emergency satellite phones which allow them to communicate with our base in Launceston if any emergencies arise. Rest assured you are not completely alone in the wilderness.</p> <h4 id="20"><strong>What is the Leave No Trace policy? </strong></h4> <p>We strongly adhere to <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Leave-No-Trace" target="_blank">Leave No Trace</a>, Australia's national minimal impact program. As part of this philosophy, we encourage travellers to:</p> <p>- Plan ahead and prepare<br /> - Travel and camp on durable surfaces<br /> - Dispose of waste properly<br /> - Leave what you find<br /> - Minimise campfire impacts<br /> - Respect wildlife<br /> - Be considerate of your hosts and other visitors</p> <p>Visit our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel" target="_blank">Thoughtful Travel page</a> for more information on how we reduce our environmental impact on the Overland Track.</p> <p><big>Ready to see why the Overland Track holds legendary status as one of Australia's finest walks? <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageNumber=1&pageSize=15&categories=AUS&searchKeywords=Cradle">View our range of guided and self-guided trips ></a></big></p> <hr />3790Traveller stories: Walking the Overland Trackhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2287/traveller-stories-walking-the-overland-trackActivities,Trekking/Walking,Community,Traveller Stories,Destinations,Australia, New Zealand &amp; the Pacific,AustraliaThu, 04 Feb 2016 06:22:24 GMT<p>Ever wondered what it's like to walk the <a href="http://www.worldexpeditions.com/index.php?section=trips&id=282" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Overland Track</a>? The Overland Track is no doubt one of Australia's finest walks, and will take you through spectacular waterfalls, dolerite mountains, lakes, tarns and diverse ecosystems in pristine Tasmanian wilderness World Heritage areas.</p> <p>Michele and her husband Glenn recently completed the walk as part of their six-month adventure travelling the world. We asked Michele about the highlights of her trip, what inspired her to do the <a href="http://www.worldexpeditions.com/index.php?section=trips&id=282" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Overland Track</a> and tips for others completing the track. She also shared some of her beautiful photos!</p> <p><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Photo-Dec-29-3-33-23-PM1.jpg"><img class="responsiveImage" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-3-33-23-PM1-1024x384-200px.jpg" alt="Glenn and Michele on The Overland Track" width="1024" dynamiccroppedimage="1" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-3-33-23-PM1-1024x384-###width###px.jpg" largestloadedsize="200"></a><span class='blogImageCaption'>Glenn and Michele on the Overland Track</span></p> <h3><strong>What made you decide to walk the Overland Track?</strong></h3> <p>My husband and I were in the middle of an amazing six-month round-the-world type trip – but something was missing. We were looking for an opportunity to get out into nature in a more intimate way. A visit to Tasmania was part of our travel itinerary, so I started doing some online research and found the Tasmanian Expeditions’ Overland Track trip. It was exactly what we needed.</p> <p>The hike promised to be challenging, we’d be on the trail for several days (6 days, 5 nights), all of the camping and backpacking gear was provided, and the logistics (food, transport to/from the trail) were taken care of. Perfect!</p> <p><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Photo-Dec-29-3-43-23-PM.jpg"><img class="responsiveImage" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-3-43-23-PM-1024x607-200px.jpg" alt="" width="1024" dynamiccroppedimage="1" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-3-43-23-PM-1024x607-###width###px.jpg" largestloadedsize="200"></a><span class='blogImageCaption'>Walking towards the iconic Cradle Mountain</span></p> <h3><strong>What kind of training did you do leading up to the walk?</strong></h3> <p>I used to weigh nearly 140 kilos (over 300 pounds) and could barely walk up a flight of stairs. A few years ago my husband and I started focusing on getting healthy, including adding more physical activity into our daily lives. I’ve lost 59 kilos (130 pounds) since then and my life has been transformed.</p> <p>Hiking the Overland Track is a physical feat that was once on my “I’ll never be able to do that” list and moved to the “I’ll give that a try” list. I didn’t do anything specific to train for the walk other than maintaining my current level of physical fitness through daily activities such as walking, biking and running. I’m not a fast hiker, but I can generally go the distance. Part of the fun of something like the Overland Track was putting my body to the test and being amazed at what I could accomplish (like reaching the summit of Barn Bluff and Mount Ossa).</p> <p><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Photo-Dec-30-9-37-09-AM.jpg"><img class="responsiveImage" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-30-9-37-09-AM-683x1024-200px.jpg" alt="The view of Barn Bluff from out campsites in Waterfall Valley." width="511" dynamiccroppedimage="1" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-30-9-37-09-AM-683x1024-###width###px.jpg" largestloadedsize="200"></a><span class='blogImageCaption'>The view of Barn Bluff from our campsites in Waterfall Valley.</span></p> <p><div class="lightbox mb-lg" data-plugin-options="{ 'delegate': 'a', 'type': 'image', 'gallery': { 'enabled': true} }"><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-30-12-48-20-PM-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-30-12-48-20-PM-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-30-11-05-04-AM-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-30-11-05-04-AM-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a></div></p> <h3><strong>What were your top 3 highlights of the walk? </strong></h3> <ol> <li><strong>The ever-changing scenery.</strong> I’ve never seen a landscape like that along the Overland Track. The craggy mountains poking up on the horizon, the golden spikes of the button grass, the towering eucalyptus forests and the bright blue skies. I can’t count the number of times I stumbled because I was so busy watching the scenery and not the trail.</li> <li><strong>Summiting both Barn Bluff and Mount Ossa.</strong> In addition to the wonders that can be found along the main track, there was time to take in several side-trips. I joined a few fellow hikers to summit two of the trail’s most imposing and iconic mountains – Barn Bluff and Mount Ossa (Tasmania’s tallest mountain). Conquering the physical challenge was reward enough, but the views from the top were unforgettable.</li> <li><strong>Seeing others experience hiking and camping for the first time.</strong> There were several members of our group that had never gone backpacking before. Never set up a tent, much less slept in one. Never gone six days without a shower. It was a special treat to see their transformation into true outdoor adventurers as the days went by - and to see the huge grins on their faces at the end of the trail as they began making plans for their next hiking adventure.</li> </ol> <p><div class="lightbox mb-lg" data-plugin-options="{ 'delegate': 'a', 'type': 'image', 'gallery': { 'enabled': true} }"><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-2-48-34-PM1-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-2-48-34-PM1-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-2-23-26-PM-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-2-23-26-PM-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-2-53-13-PM-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-2-53-13-PM-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-3-38-34-PM-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-3-38-34-PM-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-2-50-45-PM-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-01-2-50-45-PM-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a></div></p> <h3><strong>Did you see any animals on the trail?</strong></h3> <p>Being from the United States, my husband and I got to experience animals we had never seen before. We were greeted by wallabies at the campsites, including the adorable pademelons with baby joeys in their pouches. We passed countless skinks along the way, along with a couple of snakes!</p> <p>The skies were filled with birds including the majestic yellow-tailed black cockatoo and the kookaburra (it took the group a while to convince me it wasn’t a monkey in the tree based on the sound of the kookaburra’s call).</p> <p>My favourite birds were the clever currawongs which could work the buckles and zippers to get into unattended backpacks in search of an afternoon snack. I knew I was getting close to the campsite when I started to hear currawong calls.</p> <p><div class="lightbox mb-lg" data-plugin-options="{ 'delegate': 'a', 'type': 'image', 'gallery': { 'enabled': true} }"><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-31-10-08-31-PM-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-31-10-08-31-PM-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-10-11-40-PM-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-10-11-40-PM-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a></div></p> <h3><strong>What was the food and the campsites like?</strong></h3> <p>I’ve done multi-day backpacking trips in the past and the food has almost always consisted of some flavourless dehydrated store-bought concoction in a foil packet. The food on this trip was the opposite.</p> <p>I was amazed at how fresh everything was (e.g. lots of fresh veggies for lunch every day) and at our guides’ talent at making delicious meals out of seemingly simple ingredients – including amazing homemade desserts in the evening.</p> <p>We camped on nice wooden platforms in group camping sites, which made great seats on which to gather around with our fellow hikers over the evening meal and to rest our weary legs. Our camping areas were usually off the beaten path in more secluded areas. Although that meant a bit of a longer walk to the bathrooms, we enjoyed the peace and quiet of being away from the other hikers.</p> <p><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Photo-Dec-29-8-22-20-PM.jpg"><img class="responsiveImage" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-8-22-20-PM-1024x583-200px.jpg" alt="Photo Dec 29, 8 22 20 PM" width="1024" dynamiccroppedimage="1" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-8-22-20-PM-1024x583-###width###px.jpg" largestloadedsize="200"></a><span class='blogImageCaption'>Camping site on the Overland Track</span></p> <h3><strong>You’ve been travelling for six months, where does it rate in your other experiences?</strong></h3> <p>I’ve had countless adventures during the past six months: floating down a river in the Amazon Jungle, trekking through the Atacama Desert in Chile, biking Bolivia’s death road, hiking the Inca Trail, hang gliding in New Zealand and coming face-to-face with polar bears in the wild…to name but a few. And I’d say that hiking the Overland Track is definitely in the top five of my experiences so far because:</p> <ul> <li>The landscape was so stunning and so unlike anything I have ever seen before.</li> <li>The people I met in our hiking group were so funny, kind and interesting.</li> <li>Spending six full days on the trail meant I had the time and space to truly experience the wonder and splendour of the natural world.</li> <li>I saw sights that are only accessible on foot and that few others can say they’ve seen.   <strong> </strong></li> </ul> <p><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Photo-Dec-29-5-57-22-PM.jpg"><img class="responsiveImage" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-5-57-22-PM-1024x683-200px.jpg" alt="Photo Dec 29, 5 57 22 PM" width="1024" dynamiccroppedimage="1" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Dec-29-5-57-22-PM-1024x683-###width###px.jpg" largestloadedsize="200"></a></p> <h3><strong>What is one thing you could have not left behind for this trip? (i.e. some item that you really couldn’t do without)?</strong></h3> <p>The sun was blazing, bright and hot during much of our time on the Overland Track – something that isn’t that common along this trail that sees a lot of rain throughout the year. I’ve never experienced anything as intense as the Tasmanian summer sun. So, for me, a big brimmed hat and a long-sleeved shirt to protect me from the sun was an absolute blessing. But, it was nice to know I had quality rain gear in my pack too, just in case.</p> <p><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Photo-Jan-03-1-18-16-PM1.jpg"><img class="responsiveImage" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-03-1-18-16-PM1-1024x844-200px.jpg" alt="" width="1024" dynamiccroppedimage="1" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Photo-Jan-03-1-18-16-PM1-1024x844-###width###px.jpg" largestloadedsize="200"></a><span class='blogImageCaption'>The group at the end of the trail</span></p> <h3><strong>Are there any tips you would recommend for those who are thinking of doing the Overland Track?</strong></h3> <ul> <li>Do it! It is amazing.</li> <li>Bring quality hiking shoes that are well broken in. Several of our fellow hikers suffered from blisters which made for painful days of walking.</li> <li>You don’t need to be a finely toned athlete to do this hike, but having a relatively good level of physical fitness and being comfortable walking for several hours a day will go a long ways toward making the trip more enjoyable.</li> <li>Do the optional side-trips along the trail if you’re able. From summiting mountains to viewing breathtaking waterfalls, or even taking a dip in a mountain lake, some of my favourite memories of the trail are from the side-trips.</li> </ul> <p>Read more about Michele’s Overland Track experience as well as countless other adventures - including her journey toward a healthier life - on her blog at www.alifemoreextraordinary.net</p> <h4><a href="http://www.worldexpeditions.com/index.php?section=trips&id=282" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Find out more about our Overland Track walk</a></h4> <p>Interested in finding out more about other great walks in Tasmania? Check out our Tasmanian division <a href="http://www.tasmanianexpeditions.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tasmanian Expeditions</a> for a great range of Tasmanian adventures!</p> 2287