Mount Field National Park lies about 90 minutes' drive north-west of Hobart in the Derwent Valley, and it is one of the oldest national parks in Australia. Its best-known sight is Russell Falls, a two-tiered waterfall reached by a short, sealed, wheelchair-friendly path through cool temperate rainforest. The path continues past Horseshoe Falls and into the Tall Trees Walk, where swamp gums rise to enormous heights, among the tallest flowering plants on earth. The park also climbs to alpine tarns and moorland around Lake Dobson, which is quite a different landscape from the valley floor. For many visitors it is the easiest, most rewarding bush walk within reach of Hobart, and it needs little more than a pair of shoes and a rain jacket.
What to do
Start at the visitor centre and take the Russell Falls track, which is a short walk of around 20 minutes return on a smooth path. The falls drop in tiers over mossy rock, framed by tree ferns and myrtle. If you have more time, continue to Horseshoe Falls and then loop through the Tall Trees Walk, which adds an hour or so and passes through some of the most impressive forest on the island.
After dark the park is known for glow-worms in the damp gullies, though that is only possible if you stay on or arrange a night visit. In winter the higher parts of the park can see snow, and a drive up to Lake Dobson is a popular outing when the road is open.
Planning
The simplest way to visit without a car is the Mt Field National Park and Russell Falls day trip from Hobart, which is rated 4.9 from 55 reviews. Longer combination days add wildlife or mountain stops, so choose the one that matches your interests. A parks pass is usually needed for entry, so check whether your tour covers it or buy one at the visitor centre.
If you drive, the road is sealed and straightforward, and there is a cafe near the visitor centre, though it is wise to bring water and a snack. Weather in the highlands changes quickly, and the falls look best after rain, so a drizzly day need not spoil the visit.
Fitting it in
Allow a half day for the falls and tall trees, or a full day if you add the alpine walks or a wildlife stop on the way back. Wear sturdy shoes with grip, because the rainforest paths can be wet and slippery, and carry a warm layer and a rain jacket even in summer.
The first section of the track suits prams and wheelchairs, which makes it one of the more accessible waterfall walks in Tasmania. Autumn brings the colour of the deciduous beech, known as fagus, on the higher tracks, which is rare in Australia.
Mount Field pairs well with Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary on the return, and it is a good alternative to the longer drive to Cradle Mountain for travellers with limited time. Keep an eye out for pademelons and wallabies near the visitor centre at dusk, and for the pink and orange fungi that appear on fallen logs after rain.
Take your time on the Tall Trees Walk, because looking up through the trunks is the point, and a short pause on the boardwalk often reveals birdsong that the first fast walkers miss. Pack a small flask or snack to enjoy beside the river before the drive home.
What to expect
The experience
A day trip from Hobart to a national park, with a short accessible rainforest walk to Russell Falls and optional longer tracks through tall forest.
Best time
Spring and autumn are lovely, and the falls are fullest after rain. Winter can bring snow on the higher roads.
How long
A half day for the falls and Tall Trees, or a full day with alpine walks.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip, bring layers and a rain jacket, and check whether your tour includes the parks pass.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Nature lovers who want rainforest, waterfalls and giant trees within a day trip of Hobart.
- Families
- The first section to Russell Falls is short and smooth, which suits children and prams.
- Couples
- A quiet, green walk followed by a country lunch on the way back to the city.
- Pair with
- Pair it with Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, or with kunanyi for a mountain and rainforest day.
- Time needed
- Half a day for the main walks, or a full day for the alpine tracks.
Good questions
How far is Mount Field from Hobart?+
It is about 90 minutes' drive north-west of the city. Most visitors go on a day trip or in a hire car.
How long is the walk to Russell Falls?+
The track to Russell Falls takes around 20 minutes return on a smooth path. Adding Horseshoe Falls and the Tall Trees Walk makes it about an hour and a half.
Is the walk accessible?+
The first section to Russell Falls is a sealed path suitable for prams and many wheelchairs. Later sections have steps and uneven ground.
Do I need a parks pass?+
A parks pass is usually needed for entry. Check whether your tour includes it, or buy one at the visitor centre.
What should I wear?+
Wear sturdy shoes with grip, warm layers and a rain jacket. The rainforest is damp and the highlands can turn cold quickly.
