Attractions and Places To See in Central Plateau Conservation Area - Top 5

For an easily accessible natural experience, consider the Pine Lake Trail. This impressive boardwalk trail allows you to explore the unique sub-alpine landscape and observe Tasmania’s rare pencil pines. It's also considered family-friendly and wheelchair-accessible. Nearby, Pine Lake itself is calm and clear, offering beautiful views, especially from the Pine Lake Viewpoint, which is just a short detour off the main trail.

Yes, the Central Plateau Conservation Area offers a few family-friendly options. The Pine Lake Trail is an excellent choice, featuring a boardwalk that makes it accessible for all ages and even wheelchairs. You can also enjoy a stop at The Hungry Wombat Cafe, which is noted as family-friendly and a good spot for a snack.

The Central Plateau Conservation Area, often called the 'land of a thousand lakes,' is renowned for its pristine sub-alpine wilderness. You'll encounter numerous alpine tarns and lakes, such as Pine Lake and Westons Lake, set within expansive sub-alpine moorlands. The region is also home to unique flora like the ancient pencil pines found along the Pine Lake Trail, and diverse wildlife including wombats, quolls, and various bird species.

The area offers a variety of hiking experiences. An easy and accessible option is the Pine Lake Trail, which is a boardwalk. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the walk to Westons Lake is a moderate difficulty route, though the path from Lady Lake to Westons Lake is not officially marked and requires sure-footedness. Other popular trails include Ironstone Hut via Higgs Track and Lady Lake Hut via Higgs Track. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking in Central Plateau Conservation Area guide.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. In summer, the lakes are calm and clear, offering pleasant conditions for walking and exploring. However, the area is also known for its cold and icy winters, which can offer a different, rugged beauty. Be prepared for variable weather conditions year-round due to its sub-alpine nature. Liawenee, at the entrance to the area, is known as the coldest place in Tasmania.

Yes, you can find a place to refuel. The Hungry Wombat Cafe is a popular stop, offering a range of food and drinks in a family-friendly setting. It's a good option for a short break during your exploration of the area.

The Central Plateau Conservation Area is home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for wombats, spotted-tail quolls, wallabies, ringtail possums, and long-nosed potoroos, especially in the evenings. Birdlife is abundant, with yellow-tailed black cockatoos and Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagles commonly sighted. Reptiles such as mountain dragons, snow skinks, and various snakes also inhabit the low scrub.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on trails within the Central Plateau Conservation Area. This is a remote conservation area, and rules are in place to protect the unique wildlife and natural environment. It's always best to check the latest regulations from Parks Tasmania before your visit.

Campfires are prohibited within the Central Plateau Conservation Area. This regulation is in place to prevent bushfires and protect the sensitive sub-alpine environment. Visitors should plan accordingly and use fuel stoves for cooking.

Beyond hiking, the Central Plateau Conservation Area is particularly popular among anglers, offering world-class wild trout fisheries. Horse riding is also permitted in designated areas for experienced riders with appropriate mounts, though registration and permits may be required. The Highland Lakes Road (A5) also offers scenic drives with spectacular views.

While general entry to the Central Plateau Conservation Area may not always require a specific permit for day visits, certain activities or areas, such as horse riding, might require registration or permits. It's always recommended to check the official Parks Tasmania website for the most current information regarding permits and regulations before your visit, especially if you plan extended stays or specific activities.