Visit Pine Valley — Tasmania Travel

Overview

Pine Valley is a remote side valley tucked deep within Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Surrounded by ancient rainforest and dominated by towering pines, this tranquil refuge is far from roads and crowds. It lies at the head of the Cephissus Creek, accessed either by hiking the Overland Track from Cradle Mountain or by ferry across Lake St Clair and a 5.5 km walk from Narcissus Hut. For walkers, Pine Valley is a place to slow down and absorb the wild beauty of Tasmania’s world heritage wilderness.

The valley sits beneath a ring of dolerite mountains known as the Labyrinth and Du Cane Range. Its damp rainforest hosts a remarkable array of fungi, mosses and ferns. The Pine Valley Hut, built by volunteers, provides a rustic shelter for hikers, while nearby platforms offer space for tents. Though remote, Pine Valley is a gentle place, with well-graded trails, soft forest floor and clear waterways — perfect for those seeking a taste of true wilderness without technical rock scrambling.

Top Things to Do

Walk to Pine Valley Hut

The approach from Narcissus Hut follows the banks of the Cephissus Creek through moss-draped myrtle forest. Listen for native birds and breathe in the earthy smell of the woods. After about two hours you reach Pine Valley Hut and the nearby camping platforms. The hut has bunks, a stove and tank water — a welcome sight after the walk.

Explore Cephissus Falls

A short track leads from the hut to Cephissus Falls, a lovely cascade surrounded by ancient King Billy pines. The waterfall tumbles over lichen-covered boulders and is a tranquil spot for a picnic or quiet contemplation. The track is flat and easy, suitable for most walkers.

Climb the Labyrinth Plateau

From Pine Valley you can take a challenging day walk up to the Labyrinth, a maze-like plateau of tarns, pencil pines and dolerite peaks. The climb is steep and often muddy but the reward is worth it — panoramic views of Lake Elysia, Mt Geryon, the Acropolis and the entire Du Cane Range. This is a full-day walk and requires good fitness and navigation skills, but it showcases some of Tasmania’s most spectacular alpine scenery.

Summit The Acropolis or Mount Geryon

Experienced climbers can continue beyond the Labyrinth to ascend nearby peaks such as The Acropolis or Mount Geryon. These routes involve rock scrambling and exposure and should only be attempted in fine weather by confident parties. The views from the summits stretch across the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness.

Where to Stay

Pine Valley has a public hut with bunk space for 24 people and additional campsites on raised platforms. Camping or staying in the hut is allowed only with a valid Overland Track pass between October and May. Book your Overland Track permit well in advance during peak season. Hikers without a permit can visit Pine Valley as a day walk from Narcissus Hut or Lake St Clair outside the Overland Track permit season.

Backcountry camping at Lake St Clair or in the nearby Echo Point and Cynthia Bay areas provides alternatives for those not doing the full Overland Track. For an easier base, consider staying in accommodation at Derwent Bridge or Lake St Clair Lodge before and after your Pine Valley adventure.

Local Tips

Pine Valley’s weather can change rapidly; pack warm layers and waterproof gear even in summer. Bring a headlamp, matches and extra food as the hut stove may be in heavy demand. Sandflies can be persistent near the creek, so insect repellent is useful. Carry out all rubbish and practise leave no trace ethics. Respect other hikers by keeping noise down in the hut and not occupying more than your share of space.

Getting Around

Pine Valley is only accessible on foot. Most hikers take the Lake St Clair ferry to Narcissus Hut (bookings essential) and then walk to Pine Valley. Alternatively, if you’re completing the full Overland Track from Cradle Mountain, the turnoff to Pine Valley is just after the suspension bridge over the Narcissus River. The track to Pine Valley is well signposted. There are no roads or vehicle access points in the valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Explore Pine Valley?

For those seeking immersion in wild Tasmanian landscapes, Pine Valley is a rewarding journey. Whether you’re captivated by tumbling waterfalls, enchanted by ancient forests or energised by alpine ascents, this secluded valley invites you to experience Tasmania’s wilderness up close.