Explore Tasmania's Mountain Ranges - the Road Trip of a Lifetime

Tasmania might have the distinction of being Australia’s only island state, but it is also home to some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes in the world.

From the jagged peaks of Cradle Mountain to the lush highlands of the Hartz Mountains, a road trip through Tasmania’s mountain ranges offers an unforgettable adventure that will wow you at practically every turn.

However, navigating your way between Tassie’s peaks and ranges can get tricky, especially if the weather turns. So, you are going to need to be super organised to prevent yourself being caught out.

With that in mind, if you want to enjoy the smoothest and safest passage possible, here are five essential tips you should take on board.

1. Choose the Right Vehicle

Tasmania’s mountainous roads can be steep, narrow and winding, and even more difficult to traverse when wet, muddy, snowy or icy. Therefore, it is important to use a reliable vehicle, with good tyres and brakes, that is well-equipped to handle such terrain.

You are highly recommended to choose a 4WD or AWD vehicle, particularly around places like Cradle Mountain and Ben Lomond, which has unsealed and gravel roads. 4WD/AWD vehicles will provide better traction and stability, as well as proper ground clearance to prevent damage caused by rough terrain or sudden dips.

If you’re flying into Tasmania and need a reliable car to begin your road trip, Redspot’s car hire services are a good place to get your hands on one. A well-maintained, road-trip ready vehicle is an extremely important consideration to make. You don’t want to be stuck up a creek without a paddle, or in this case, stuck up a mountain without a reliable car to get you out.

Alternatively, if you have a bit more time at your disposal, you can consider purchasing a car when you arrive in Tasmania, which you can then sell before you leave.

2. Plan Your Route and Stops in Advance

Tasmania’s mountain ranges are vast, and mobile reception can be spotty in remote areas. Therefore, it is a good idea to draw up a well-planned itinerary before setting off on your road trip.

If you’re having trouble figuring out exactly where you would like to venture to, consider watching some highlighted travel content on YouTube, TikTok or Instagram. Once your interest is piqued, you can explore relevant travel books, websites and travel agencies to find the locations you want to see. Then, use an app like Maps.me to identify the best route between them.

The good thing about Maps.me is that you can download unlimited maps to your Android or iPhone mobile device. It also allows you to create routes with up to five waypoints and look for places to stop without using even one byte of data.

Additionally, you should use the Fuel Map Australia app to identify the nearest petrol station, as they can be few and far between in remote areas. Finally, use the National Public Toilet Map app to assist you when you have to answer the call of nature.

3. Pack Smart for the Varying Weather Conditions

Even in the height of summer, Tasmania’s mountainous regions can experience four seasons in a day. For this reason, it is important to prepare yourself for weather conditions that can change rapidly.

The key to doing this is to pick clothes you can easily layer, which should include a waterproof and windproof jacket and a warm fleece for those chilly mornings and evenings. It is definitely worth bringing gloves, hats and scarves, as well as comfortable hiking boots if you plan to do a bit of walking.

Other things you should carry with you include a first aid kit, torch with extra batteries, non-perishable snacks, plenty of water and a phone power bank or car charger.

4. Be Prepared for Wildlife Encounters

Tasmania is teeming with wildlife, and while encountering native animals is part of the fun of the adventure, you should be aware of the potential hazards they bring.

Whilst driving, especially at dawn and dusk, watch for wombats, wallabies and other wildlife that may be crossing the road. If an animal does cross your path, brake gently where possible, rather than swerving, as sudden movements can lead to accidents.

You should also drive slowly when you see signs that identify wildlife-prone areas and always respect their space and habitat when stopping for photos or out hiking.

5. Use Common Sense to Stay Safe

The mountain landscapes of Tasmania are truly spectacular, and you’ll no doubt want to capture these Insta-worthy moments with photos and videos. However, in your desire to get that perfect shot, remember safety should always come first.

Never stop in the middle of the road to take a picture, even if there isn’t any traffic in sight. Instead, find a safe place to pull over and walk to where you want to snap or film.

If you are hiking, avoid the temptation to inch nearer to the edge of a cliff to get a better shot, and be especially careful of your balance when taking selfies.

It is a good idea to keep your camera or phone secure by using a wrist strap or camera harness that will prevent you from dropping your device.

Also, make sure you leave mountainous areas well before the light fades and don’t venture into them on foot after dark.

Follow these tips and you will be well prepared to embark on an exciting adventure in one of the most natural and expansive parts of Australia. Largely untouched, this beautiful place is sure to bring moments and memories that will last a lifetime.