7 Best Places to See Snow in Tasmania | Snow joke!
Sorry, that’s a really bad pun… but one of the most common questions I get asked is, “Where can I see snow in Tasmania?”
Luckily there are plenty of options, and these are the 7 best places to see snow in Tasmania!
This page contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). Read our full disclosure policy here.
Are you wondering where to see snow in Tasmania?
So many people visit Tasmania during summer when they know (or at least hope) the weather Gods will be kind.
But you know what? If you visit in summer you are totally missing out on one of the best parts of Tassie – the snow!!
Read: The Best Time to Visit Tasmania
Tassie is a small island so you’ll be pleased to know that most locations I recommend here for your Tasmania winter holiday can be reached in less than 2 hours from either Hobart or Launceston.
Enough talk, let’s get this snow show on the road!
#1 - Mt Wellington (Kunanyi)
Mt Wellington is the easiest place to see snow in Tasmania.
It’s a huge mountain – 1200m tall – and it is the first thing you see as you drive into Hobart.
It only takes 30 minutes from Hobart to its summit, and there is plenty of parking up top. Although as you can imagine it is often at its busiest after snowfalls.
On the summit are some fantastic lookouts from which you’ll enjoy panoramic views down to Hobart, up the Derwent Valley and across to the Tasman Peninsula.
If you’re wondering what to do in Tasmania in winter you’re going to love a snow-covered Mt Wellington – it’s the best for Hobart snow!
Pro tip
For a very different snow experience, park at The Springs and go for a bushwalk in the snow! There are plenty of tracks criss-crossing the mountain, and you can even climb to the summit via the Zig Zag Track if you’re keen!
The road to the summit is narrow and has lots of twists and turns – the views on the way up are almost as good as from the top – but it is completely safe so long as you drive slowly and make room for other drivers.
Caravans and long wheelbase motorhomes can be taken to the summit, but in snowy conditions I recommend parking at The Springs instead – rather than possibly creating additional congestion on the mountain.
Another great option is to take the kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer bus up to the summit (click here for details), as they are the only tour company with exclusive access to the mountain when Pinnacle Road is closed due to snow!
The road can be closed after heavy snowfalls – check here for the latest updates. The temperature at the top of the mountain is normally 10°C colder than in Hobart, and strong winds are common – so make sure you pack a lot of warm layers and bring your hardshell jacket.
Mt Wellington Webcam
Mt Wellington is so big and so close to Hobart that it’s pretty easy to see what the conditions are like up top. Even so, these two Mt Wellington webcams give a different perspective to the mountain:
#2 - Cradle Mountain
Want some Cradle Mountan snow? Cradle Mountain would have to be Tasmania’s most famous place for enjoying a friendly snow fight!
There are so many bushwalking trails in the region that there is guaranteed to be one that suits your style and fitness level. Or you can simply relax in your private hot tub and enjoy the alpine views.
Pro tip
Cradle Mountain is 7km from Cradle Mountain Village and most accommodation options.
You can drive in by car – campervans and caravans are not permitted – however parking is very limited. A more convenient option is to take the shuttle bus. The shuttle is free for anyone with a valid National Parks Pass.
There are plenty of easy walks near the Interpretation Centre, while the most popular walk is Dove Lake Circuit (2.5 hours) at the foot of Cradle Mountain. It is simply stunning when there is snow on the peaks of Cradle Mountain high above.
For the best views and photos of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake, climb up to Hanson’s Peak – you won’t regret it!
Access to Cradle Mountain Village is an easy drive from Devonport (1.5 hours), Launceston (2 hours), and Hobart (4 hours).
For more information about Cradle Mountain click here – or if you’d prefer to do a tour, have a look at this Cradle Mountain Day Tour that operates in all weather.
Warning
Keep an eye on the Cradle Mountain weather forecast, dress for the conditions and pack extra layers in your backpack.
It is rare, but visitors have died from hypothermia when bushwalking in the Cradle Mountain area because they didn’t check the weather forecast and didn’t bring the right gear/clothing.
Cradle Mountain Webcam
Dove Lake is a reasonable distance from most accommodation options back at the Village.
Checking the Cradle Mountain webcam before you leave will help you see if there are car park spaces available, and if you’re a photographer it can show you what the Cradle Mountain weather conditions are like, possibly saving you a wasted trip.
😍 Special Offer - Cradle Mountain Accommodation
Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Resort is my favourite accommodation at Cradle Mountain, and after reaching out to them I was so happy when Andy and the team became a Partner of the Lap of Tasmania, helping road trippers find the perfect place to stay and keeping your holiday costs as low as possible 😊
Use the LAPOFTAS code and SAVE 10% when you stay at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Resort!
#3 - Ben Lomond National Park
If you’re visiting Tasmania in winter you’re going to love Ben Lomond!
Ben Lomond is located in Tasmania’s northern midlands and is visible for miles around, its steep cliff-sides soaring into the sky.
Wondering can you ski in Tasmania? the answer is a big YES!
It’s a 1.5 hour drive from Launceston, and together with Mt Field is home to one (of two) Tasmania ski fields.
Access to the plateau at 1300m is via the spectacular ‘Jacob’s Ladder’ – a series of hairpins and switchbacks that inch its way up the mountainside.
Pro tip
Before returning, stop at the lookout at the top of Jacob’s Ladder for some epic photos!
In summer access via the unsealed road is easy for all vehicles, but in winter there are strict rules on access to the ski fields due to the crazy terrain.
Check the official website for all the details, but the most important requirement is that from June to September it is mandatory for all vehicles to carry snow chains, and that you know how to fit them correctly.
But don’t worry if you don’t have snow chains, as there is a shuttle bus that will take you to the top for a fee.
The plateau is beautiful, and even in the depths of winter there’s a good chance you’ll spot wombats and wallabies in the snow!
Unlike Mt Field, Ben Lomond has a shop at the top where you can purchase hot food and drinks.
Ben Lomond Webcam
There are quite a few Ben Lomond webcams and this page has all the links you’ll need to see what snow conditions are waiting for you up the mountain!
#4 - Mt Field National Park (Mt Mawson Ski Field)
Mt Field National Park is a stunning part of Tasmania, and it is also home to one of Tasmania’s two ski fields – Mt Mawson Ski Fields.
It’s slightly more difficult to access than most other options in Tasmania, but the reward is worth it!
Pro tip
The Tarn Shelf bushwalk is one of Tasmania’s most picturesque. It’s a great way to explore the region, and get your snow fix at the same time.
Most people that visit Mt Field will stop at the Visitor Centre and then do the short walk to Russell Falls – but to get to Mt Mawson Ski Field keep driving past the Visitor Centre and up the narrow unsealed road for around 30-45 minutes to the car park at Lake Dobson.
Follow the Pandani Grove Nature Walk on foot around the shores of Lake Dobson before heading uphill on the Urquhart Track for another 30 minutes to the cosy, and totally brand new day shelter near the ski fields.
For more information about the ski fields, including ticket prices, click here.
Of course, if you just want to have a play in the snow it’s totally free!
A tour can also get you there with no fuss – this Tarn Shelf and Mt Field Walking Tour is a great choice.
Mt Field Snow Cam
If you’re only going for the snow it’s a loooong way to Mt Field. By checking the webcam you can see the snow cover for yourself, and decide on whether it’s worth the drive.
#5 - Hartz Mountains National Park (Hartz Peak)
Hartz Mountains National Park flies under the radar for many visitors, which is strange because it is a magnificent part of Tasmania and is a wonderful place to visit in the snow!
The park is located in the Huon Valley south of Hobart and will take around 1.5 hours by car.
The road is sealed to Geeveston, but from there it is unsealed and becomes narrow and winding for the last 21km.
Pro tip
The unsealed road to the park is occasionally closed after heavy snow falls. Call ahead to check on the condition of the road – 6121 7026.
Once you’re up there though there are plenty of options for fun in the snow.
The plateau offers a number of different walking trails. Arve Falls is beautiful and very easy to reach – as is Lake Osborne.
Even the walk to Hartz Peak itself is relatively easy (3-5 hours return), as it is flat nearly the entire length, with just a couple of short climbs near the end.
#6 - Central Highlands
Tasmania’s Central Highlands is the land of a thousand lakes, and winter often brings snow to Miena, Liawenee, Derwent Bridge and Bronte Park.
There isn’t one specific location where you should go to enjoy the snow in the Central Highlands. Instead, I recommend a day trip through the region between historic Bothwell in the south and Great Lake in the north – or stay at Thousand Lakes Lodge for a couple of nights.
Central Highlands Webcams
Fishing is a Big Deal in Tasmania’s central highlands, and the Anglers Alliance have a number of webcams dotted across the lakes.
They are perfect for snow-spotting, and you’ll find all the central highlands webcams here:
#7 - The Overland Track
We’ve already described Cradle Mountain as one of the best places for snow in Tasmania, but did you know that Cradle Mountain is where the Overland Track starts?
This walking track is more than 60km long and passes through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area between Cradle Mountain in the north and Lake St Clair in the south.
Pro tip
The Overland Track is challenging in summer, let alone winter. Only attempt this multi-day walk if you have extensive bushwalking experience, equipment and clothing.
Most walkers complete the trail in summer, but if you’re an experienced bushwalker and have the right gear for camping in alpine conditions, then the Overland Track may well be the best experience of your life!
Barn Bluff, Waterfall Valley, Helion Plains and the Acropolis…this is pristine wilderness at its finest, and it is like a fairyland under a blanket of snow.
Find out more about the Overland Track here.
Would you like to experience the Overland Track with a hiking and photography professional? This 6-Day Overland Track Tour is hosted by one of Tasmania’s finest landscape photographers. Amazing photos guaranteed!
Stay safe
Take care if you are the first to drive on a road covered in snow – even more so if the road is unsealed and in a remote area.
Drive to your capabilities and don’t be afraid to back out if you feel unsure. You can always return another day!
Don’t forget to pack for cold conditions – the weather can change from blue skies to storms within 30 minutes.
FAQs
When does it snow in Tasmania?
The best time to see snow in Tasmania is in July and August, and to a lesser extent June and September.
Read More: The Best Time to Visit Tasmania
You’ll be excited to know that even if you’re not visiting Tasmania in winter it is still possible for it to snow. All it takes is one big Antarctic blast and you can have a dusting of snow at Christmas!
Can you ski in Tasmania?
Yes, yes, yes!
The Tasmania ski fields of Ben Lomond and Mt Field aren’t as extensive as those you’ll find in Victoria and New South Wales, but the incredible views more than make up for their small size.
Can I take my Tasmania rental car into Alpine regions?
In my research I found that all Tasmania car hire companies allow you to drive in alpine areas, but most won’t let you drive in the snow.
I strongly recommend reading my Guide to Tasmania Car Hire, and then speaking with your rental company to be 100% sure.
Do you need snow chains in Tasmania?
For almost all locations and conditions you won’t need snow chains in Tasmania.
Snow falls do occur during the year, but the snow rarely settles except at high altitude.
The only exceptions are for dirt roads in Ben Lomond National Park or Mt Field National Park (if driving beyond the Visitor Centre to Lake Dobson) during winter.
What should I pack for my Tasmania road trip?
Tasmania’s cool climate does mean you need to pack a little differently to most Australian holidays.
Check my article on What to Wear in Tasmania, my Tasmania Packing List and my Road Trip Checklist to make sure you don’t leave anything out.
Start your Tasmania road trip!
There is also a fantastic community on Facebook who are super keen to help you with road trip inspiration and advice. It’s the perfect place to ask questions and to plan an awesome itinerary that perfectly suits your style of travel – Click here to join the Facebook group.
I hope this guide to seeing the snow in Tasmania has helped you plan your Tassie road trip. If you’ve got any questions at all please get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.
Happy road tripping!
Andrew.
Travel planning resources
Tasmania’s remote location means there are internet ‘black spots’ across the island.
A hard copy travel guide or map is the perfect backup, and I love the range from Lonely Planet.
