Blog Archives

Galley Museum

Queenstown’s Galley Museum documents the history of life in Queenstown through photographic exhibits. The museum is housed in the old Imperial Hotel, which dates from 1897 and has been used as a hospital and as accommodation for workers at the Mount Lyell Mine.

The Overland Track

One of Australia’s most popular hiking trails is the Overland Track (6 days; 80km/50 miles) that runs between Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair. The track is well maintained with eight huts along the route, however it is a very popular trek and the huts are often full, making it essential to bring along a tent and a warm sleeping bag. Public transport is available with pick-ups at either end of the track from both Hobart and Launceston. It is also possible to stay at luxury accommodation en route with hot showers and fully catered meals, but this option is guaranteed to blow your budget.

Day hikes in Lake St Clair

There is a good range of hiking trails in the southern – Lake St Clair – part of the national park. These include the Watersmeet walk (1 hour), which is noted for its wildflowers that bloom in springtime. It is possible to continue on along the Platypus Bay track and the Woodland Naturewalk (1½ hours).

Day hikes in Cradle Mountain

There are plenty of day hikes originating at the northern part of the national park. These range from easy ten-minute walks to more strenuous treks up Cradle Mountain. The Dove Lake Loop Track (2 hours) is the most popular and is a good introduction to the park.

The information centre sells a detailed map of these hiking trails for $4.