Hartz Mountains National Park
National Park · National Park in Tasmania
Written by Ben Cole· Updated Apr 2026Quick Actions
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About Hartz Mountains National Park
A compact but spectacular World Heritage national park in southern Tasmania featuring glacier-carved peaks, tarns, and moorland accessible within 2 hours of Hobart. The park offers day walks from the car park at Waratah Lookout up to Hartz Peak (1,255m), passing through subalpine cushion plant moorland and ancient pencil pine groves. The park is renowned for its summer wildflower displays of alpine herbs and colourful flowering heathlands.
About
A compact but spectacular World Heritage national park in southern Tasmania featuring glacier-carved peaks, tarns, and moorland accessible within 2 hours of Hobart. The park offers day walks from the car park at Waratah Lookout up to Hartz Peak (1,255m), passing through subalpine cushion plant moorland and ancient pencil pine groves. The park is renowned for its summer wildflower displays of alpine herbs and colourful flowering heathlands.
History & Significance
Hartz Mountains National Park was formally established in 1992 and designated part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area in 1982. The peaks were carved by Pleistocene glaciation, creating the distinctive tarns and moorland landscape visible today. The park protects significant populations of endemic Tasmanian alpine flora, including rare pencil pine groves that are found nowhere else on Earth.
Sources & References
Getting There
Located in the Huon Valley, approximately 60 km south of Hobart via the Huon Highway. Drive through Cradoc and follow signs to Waratah Lookout car park (unsealed final section, usually passable for 2WD vehicles). No public transport to the park; private vehicle essential. Allow 1.5–2 hours from Hobart CBD.
Parking
Free parking at Waratah Lookout car park; estimated capacity 30–40 vehicles. No designated accessible spaces; gravel surface with some uneven sections. Parking fills quickly December–February and on weekends. No formal overflow parking; if full, visitors must return later or visit another time. Limited shade from low moorland vegetation.
Visitor Tips
- •Start early to avoid afternoon weather changes and crowds on popular weekends.
- •Bring water, snacks, and warm layers — weather can change rapidly at altitude.
- •Waratah Lookout car park fills quickly in summer; aim for a morning arrival.
- •The walk to Hartz Peak is well-marked but steep; allow 3–4 hours return trip.
- •Alpine flora is delicate — stay on marked tracks to protect cushion plants and pencil pines.
- •Best photography light is morning; wildflowers peak December–January.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- World Heritage
Plan Your Visit
- Duration
- Half day to full day
- Best Time
- December to March offers warmest weather, wildflower displays, and reliable road access. January–February are peak visitation months. Avoid winter (June–August) when snow regularly closes Waratah Lookout road. Weekday visits are quieter than weekends. Morning starts (before 9 am) avoid afternoon cloud and weather deterioration.
- Hours
- Park open 24/7; road to Waratah Lookout may be snow-closed in winter
Location
- Region
- Huon Valley
- State
- Tasmania
Good to Know
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages for lookout viewing; families with school-age children (8+) for short walks. Hartz Peak walk (3–4 hours) suits experienced young hikers and adults. Not suitable for prams; terrain is rocky and steep.
- Shade/Cover
- Limited shade
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
BYO all food and water; no facilities at car park beyond picnic tables. Nearest supplies in Geeveston (15 km away).
Features
Facilities
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