Central Highlands Tasmania Travel Guide
The Central Highlands of Tasmania form the island’s alpine heart. Characterised by vast lakes, rolling highland plains, rugged mountains and remote wilderness, this remarkable region offers some of Tasmania’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Unlike Tasmania’s coastal regions, the Central Highlands are defined by open spaces, elevated plateaus and a sense of solitude rarely found elsewhere in Australia. The region is famous for world-class trout fishing, hiking adventures, mountain scenery and some of the island’s most spectacular natural attractions.
For travellers seeking wilderness, fresh mountain air and unforgettable scenery, Central Highlands Tasmania delivers a truly unique experience.
Where Is Central Highlands Tasmania?
Central Highlands Tasmania occupies the elevated interior of the island, situated between the northern and southern regions.
The area includes:
- Great Lake
- Arthurs Lake
- Lake St Clair
- Miena
- Bothwell
- Walls of Jerusalem National Park
- Highland Lakes region
The Central Highlands can be accessed from Hobart, Launceston and Tasmania’s western regions.
Why Visit Central Highlands Tasmania?
The Central Highlands offer a very different side of Tasmania.
Visitors come for:
- Alpine landscapes
- Remote wilderness
- Trout fishing
- Mountain scenery
- National parks
- Wildlife encounters
- Stargazing opportunities
- Scenic drives
The region is often described as Tasmania’s outdoor playground.
Great Lake
Great Lake is Australia’s largest natural freshwater lake and one of Tasmania’s most important inland attractions.
Popular activities include:
- Trout fishing
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Photography
- Wildlife observation
The surrounding highland scenery creates an unforgettable landscape throughout every season.
Lake St Clair
Lake St Clair is Australia’s deepest freshwater lake and one of Tasmania’s most iconic wilderness destinations.
Located within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the lake forms the southern end of the famous Overland Track.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Walking trails
- Boat cruises
- Wildlife encounters
- Photography
- Wilderness experiences
The lake is surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery and ancient forests.
Walls of Jerusalem National Park
Walls of Jerusalem National Park is one of Tasmania’s most remote and rewarding wilderness areas.
Known for its:
- Alpine lakes
- Ancient pencil pine forests
- Mountain peaks
- Wilderness hiking
- Remote landscapes
The park provides an unforgettable experience for experienced walkers seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Arthurs Lake
Arthurs Lake is one of Tasmania’s premier fishing destinations.
Anglers from around Australia visit the lake for its reputation as a world-class trout fishery.
The area also offers:
- Birdwatching
- Scenic drives
- Camping
- Wildlife viewing
- Photography
Its elevated location provides stunning views across the surrounding highlands.
Miena
Miena is a small highland settlement that serves as a gateway to many of the region’s outdoor attractions.
Visitors often use Miena as a base for:
- Fishing adventures
- Highland exploration
- Wildlife photography
- Scenic touring
The town’s location makes it an ideal stop for exploring the Great Lake and surrounding areas.
Bothwell
Bothwell is one of Tasmania’s oldest inland towns and offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s colonial history.
Attractions include:
- Historic buildings
- Golf Museum
- Heritage streetscapes
- Local cafés
- Nearby countryside
Bothwell provides a perfect combination of history and rural charm.
Highland Lakes Region
The Highland Lakes region contains numerous lakes and reservoirs spread across Tasmania’s central plateau.
Highlights include:
- Great Lake
- Arthurs Lake
- Woods Lake
- Penstock Lagoon
- Little Pine Lagoon
The area is renowned for fishing, wildlife and scenic touring.
Wildlife in Central Highlands Tasmania
The region supports a wide variety of native wildlife.
Animals commonly seen include:
- Wombats
- Wallabies
- Pademelons
- Echidnas
- Tasmanian Devils
- Platypus
- Wedge-tailed Eagles
The highland environment provides important habitat for many native species.
Best Scenic Drives in the Central Highlands
The Central Highlands offer some of Tasmania’s most scenic inland road trips.
Highland Lakes Road
A spectacular route connecting many of the region’s major lakes.
Great Lake Scenic Drive
One of Tasmania’s most underrated drives.
Lake St Clair Route
Combining mountain scenery, forests and wilderness views.
Bothwell Touring Route
Perfect for visitors interested in heritage and countryside landscapes.
Hiking in the Central Highlands
The region offers some of Tasmania’s best wilderness walking opportunities.
Popular hikes include:
Walls of Jerusalem
A challenging but rewarding wilderness adventure.
Lake St Clair Walks
Suitable for a range of fitness levels.
Overland Track Access Areas
Several walks provide access to sections of Tasmania’s most famous hiking route.
Pine Lake Walk
A short walk featuring unique alpine vegetation.
Best Time to Visit Central Highlands Tasmania
Summer (December to February)
Ideal for hiking, camping and fishing.
Autumn (March to May)
Beautiful colours and cool temperatures.
Winter (June to August)
Snow-covered landscapes and dramatic alpine scenery.
Spring (September to November)
Wildflowers, flowing waterways and active wildlife.
Weather conditions can change rapidly due to the region’s elevation, so visitors should always prepare accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Central Highlands Tasmania worth visiting?
Yes. The region offers some of Tasmania’s most spectacular wilderness, lakes and mountain landscapes.
What is the most famous attraction in the Central Highlands?
Lake St Clair and Walls of Jerusalem National Park are among the region’s most recognised destinations.
How many days should I spend in the Central Highlands?
Two to four days is ideal for exploring the major attractions and scenic drives.
Can you visit the Central Highlands year-round?
Yes. Each season offers different experiences, from summer hiking to winter snow scenery.
Discover Central Highlands Tasmania
The Central Highlands showcase a side of Tasmania many travellers never see. Vast lakes, alpine landscapes, ancient forests and remote wilderness combine to create one of Australia’s most unique natural regions.
Whether you’re hiking through the Walls of Jerusalem, fishing on Great Lake or exploring the highland roads around Miena and Bothwell, the Central Highlands deliver unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
For those looking to experience Tasmania beyond the coast, the Central Highlands offer a journey into the island’s wild and rugged heart.