DANNY : DE HEKWith over 2000km’s of walking tracks located throughout Tasmania it is easy to understand why the region is incredibly popular with Australian and international outdoor enthusiasts.

With a range of tracks to suit any level of fitness, time frame and hiking experience, you are guaranteed to find walks and hikes to suit your personal requirements.

Please find below some useful information to help you stay safe when enjoying the outdoor pursuits to be found in Tasmania.

Plan to Stay Safe

It doesn’t matter if you are planning to go for a walk for a couple of hours or couple of days, you need to be prepared for the wilderness and Mother Nature to throw the odd curve ball at you on occasion, such as a sudden change in weather or a deviation off the beaten track.

It goes without saying that we all plan to stay safe when we are enjoying the great outdoors, however it is important to realise your own physical limits and capabilities. Always choose a walk that is within your experience and fitness level. If in doubt, take the time to study walking maps and guides. Don’t be afraid to ask advice from experienced hikers, Visitor Information Centres or staff from the Tasmania’s Parks and Wildlife Services. They will be happy to advise about camping and track conditions. If in doubt why not join a walk within a tour group?

Don’t Walk Alone

NEVER walk alone, the risks of something going wrong are greatly increased when you walk or hike alone, which is why you should always walk with a minimum of 2 or 3 other people, especially if you are planning a walk into a remote area.

Are You Prepared?

Like many other places, weather conditions in Tasmania can change with little or no warning, especially around the mountain areas, and just because you are walking during summer doesn’t mean you shouldn’t expect snow, rain or wind! For this reason you should ensure you take clothing and equipment to suit the track and changing weather patterns. Having the correct clothing, equipment, food and water (and tent for overnight hikes), could save your life if things go wrong.

Tell A Friend

Be sure to let a reliable person know your walking plans before you depart. Make sure you also advise them when you have returned safely!

Check In

At the start of most walks you will find a logbook where you can record your intentions, there are also logbooks along the way. Your logs will help searchers locate you if you are reported overdue or missing. Please ensure you sign out at the end of your walk.

Essential Hiking/Walk Gear

All walkers should ensure they have sturdy walking shoes or boots, a sun hat, sun block, sunglasses, clothes to suit the weather, raincoat, woollen jumper, snack food and drink. This applies to those on short walks also.

Below is a list of items that are deemed essential for your comfort and safety on hikes:

  • Good quality tent with built-in floor and poles
  • Warm, dry sleeping bag
  • Sleeping mat
  • Waterproof jacket and waterproof overpants
  • Warm clothing in layers (fleece, thermals)
  • Spare set of dry clothes
  • Sturdy boots, woollen socks and gaiters
  • Gloves, warm hat or beanie
  • Sunhat, sunscreen and sunglasses
  • First aid kit
  • Map, compass and whistle
  • Torch and batteries
  • Lightweight, nutritious food

Optional Gear:

  • EPIRB (emergency position-indicating radio beacon) or PLB (personal locator beacon)
  • GPS (global positioning system)
  • Satellite phone
  • Sleeping bag innersheet
  • Rope or cordage
  • Notebook and pencil
  • Books or field guides
  • Camera
  • Camp shoes
  • Playing cards