Guide to Mount Field National Park

Just over an hour’s drive from Hobart, Mount Field National Park is one of Tasmania’s oldest and most accessible national parks. Known for its waterfalls, alpine lakes, and diverse walking trails, it’s a popular stop for travellers wanting to experience the beauty of Tasmania’s wilderness without venturing too far off the beaten track. From lush fern gullies to snow-covered peaks, Mount Field offers something for every season.

Why do people go to Mount Field National Park?

Visitors are drawn to Mount Field National Park Tasmania for its rich variety of landscapes, easily explored through a network of well-maintained walking tracks. The park’s most famous feature is Russell Falls, a tiered waterfall framed by mossy rainforest and tall tree ferns. Just beyond it, the Tall Trees Walk in Mount Field offers a chance to see some of the tallest eucalypts in the world.

Further up the mountain, the scenery changes dramatically. Around Lake Dobson, visitors can explore alpine vegetation in Tasmania, with subalpine moorlands, glacial tarns, and seasonal snow. The Tarn Shelf Walk is one of the most scenic hikes in the park, especially in autumn when the deciduous beech (fagus) turns gold and orange.

The park is also home to a wide range of wildlife. Wallabies, wombats, and echidnas are frequently spotted along the trails, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. For photographers, birdwatchers, or families looking for a quiet day outdoors, it’s a rewarding and easy-to-navigate destination.

How long should I spend at Mount Field National Park?

If you’re on a tight schedule, a half-day visit is enough to see Russell Falls, do the Tall Trees Walk, and enjoy a picnic or coffee at the visitor centre. These tracks are close to the park entrance and don’t require a lot of time or hiking experience.

For a fuller experience, plan to spend a full day exploring both the lower forest walks and the alpine area near Lake Dobson. This gives you time to complete longer tracks such as the Tarn Shelf circuit, which takes around 4 to 5 hours.

Travellers interested in camping in Mount Field or doing multiple walks over two days will find plenty to explore without retracing steps. The changing elevation and ecosystems make it feel like multiple parks in one.

How long is the walk to Russell Falls Tasmania?

The 1.4 km walk to Russell Falls is one of the most accessible in the park. It’s a flat, sealed trail that takes around 25 minutes return from the visitor centre. The track is suitable for all fitness levels, including wheelchair users and families with prams. It’s an excellent introduction to the park and a must-see for first-time visitors.

How to get to Mount Field National Park

Mount Field National Park is located about 65 kilometres northwest of Hobart. The drive takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.

From Hobart, take the Brooker Highway (A10) north to New Norfolk
Continue on the Lyell Highway west through the Derwent Valley
At Westerway, turn off toward the park entrance, which is well signposted

The roads are sealed and suitable for campervans. Once you arrive, the visitor centre provides maps, advice, and weather updates.

Best time to visit Mount Field National Park

Mount Field is a true year-round destination. Each season offers something different.

Autumn (April to May) is especially popular for the changing colour of the fagus (Australia’s only cold-climate deciduous tree), best seen around the Tarn Shelf
Spring (September to November) brings wildflowers and flowing waterfalls
Summer (December to February) is ideal for hiking in the alpine areas, with cooler temperatures than nearby Hobart
Winter (June to August) transforms Lake Dobson and surrounding trails into a snowy landscape, suitable for short snow walks or cross-country skiing

The best time of day to visit is in the morning, when the park is quieter, wildlife is active, and the light is soft – perfect for photography, especially at the waterfalls.

Weather at Mount Field National Park

Weather in the park varies depending on elevation. The rainforest near Russell Falls remains cool and damp year-round, while alpine areas around Lake Dobson can be much colder.

Summer: 18–22°C
Autumn and Spring: 8–15°C
Winter: 0–5°C in alpine areas, often with snow

It’s wise to dress in layers and bring waterproof gear, even on sunny days. Conditions can change quickly, particularly higher up the mountain.

Best place to park your campervan at Mount Field National Park

There is dedicated parking at the Mount Field visitor centre, with plenty of space for cars, campervans, and small motorhomes. Parking is free after paying the national park entry fee.

From the car park, it’s a short walk to the start of most of the park’s popular trails, including Russell Falls and the Tall Trees Walk. If you're staying overnight, a nearby campground offers powered and unpowered sites within walking distance of the visitor area.