We'd like to go a little later, but September it must be. I was able to make Queensland our first stop, arriving the end of the first week of September, trying to squeeze every possible day of temperature increase out of Tasmania before we arrive there around September 21st. But snow is still a possibility then, right? Especially around Cradle Mountain?

This creates a packing challenge, because this is a big trip for us, starting in warm Queensland, then on to cool (or cold) Tasmania, then up to Bali, Laos and Vietnam before flying home from Hong Kong. For us, the biggest trip either of us has ever taken. And packing would be easy if not for Tasmania. Just bring warm weather clothes.

But Tasmania sounds like a real wild card. I'm hoping for no snow at Cradle Mountain, as we want to be able to walk on the trails there, and we so much want to see the beautiful moss, buttongrass and ferns uncovered. I was at Cradle Mountain several years ago (in December) on a work trip, but only for 2 days. It was such a tease to be whisked around, rushing past such gorgeous scenery. I just had to return to see Tasmania again on a more proper timetable!

Our rough plan is to drive from Launceston to Cradle Mountain, then Strahan, along the Lyell Highway to somewhere in central Tasmania, down to Hobart, then up the east coast to Freycinet/Bicheno/Binalong before returning to Launceston.

So, I'm thinking dress in layers. A waterproof outer shell, with sweaters and shirts underneath. Footwear could be a problem, but I'm weighing a couple of possible solutions:
Since we can't lug snow boots all over Asia for the rest of our trip, I'm considering those thin flexible galoshes that slip over regular shoes. We're not serious hikers, so they'd really be for walking if we encounter snow or muddy conditions. We might even throw them out after Tasmania to save room/weight.
I'm also considering bringing proper coats/boots and then mailing them back home to the US. Anyone have an idea of what postage might cost?

I'd really appreciate any thoughts/advice from those who know Tasmania and the likely September weather. And I do understand that Tasmania weather is very unpredictable. Thanks!

rje -

I don't know where you're from, but keep in mind that 'cold' is Australia isn't nearly as cold as other parts of the world. I'm a Colorado girl living in Australia - I've visited Tasmania in the cold months and while we saw snow at Cradle Mountain, we certainly didn't need snow boots (and we're hikers).

We spent three weeks in Switzerland and Germany this past December (hiking) and discovered that our Keen hiking boots kept our feet warm and dry, even though they're not waterproof. Your idea of galoshes is probably a good one but do make sure they have sufficient traction.

You're more likely to need raingear. Layers make perfect sense and that's how I pack despite where I travel in the winter. A waterproof layer and a fleece that fits underneath, plus a warm hat and mittens and a pair of long silk underwear worn beneath even lightweight hiking pants do wonders.

<Anyone have an idea of what postage might cost?>

A lot.

Snow in Tasmania is a bit hit and miss. The mountains are not that high the Highest is only 1617m Cradle itself is only 1545 and unless you are quite fit you won't be climbing it. Even given the Latitude snow is rare. So you may see snow but won't be waist deep in it. You will be lucky to be ankle deep.

All the main tracks are either boardwalk or gravel so you won't need heavy duty boots.

A pair of light boots would be enough. You could easily get away with walking shoes or runners. That's what we wear. If you own gaiters they will keep you a bit warmer and drier but don't buy them just for this trip.

As you will be walking you will get warm quick and a pair of Thermals and light trousers, will be enough. A pair of water proof over pants would be nice. You can bring your own or buy a pair cheap at a camping shop here.

I just did a quick google search and you can hire all the gear you need at:-
http://www.tasequiphire.com.au/clothing.html

I have no idea what they are like, but they are based in Launceston. Look at forecast and get yourself kitted out as required. Looks like about $100 for a week will get you boots, thermals, coat and gaiters.
That's what I would do seeing that the rest of the time you are in the tropics. A hundred bucks is much easier than lugging gear around and a small percentage of your overall cost. Plus the gear will be of heavier duty than you want to carry around the world.

Tasmania as you know, has somewhat unpredictable weather. You could have warm spring weather or snow. My sister was at Cradle Mountain for Christmas day one year and it snowed. We were there on Christmas day the year before last and it was warm. It is rarely hot in Tasmania. We have been there in 42 degrees and bushfires.

Overseas postage from here is hideous.

Look at my trip reports for Tasmania. They are list of things to see and do. I don't write journals.

How long do you have in Tas?

We've been to Cradle in August and there was a bit of snow on the ground. We were able to walk around in light hiking shoes. Those slip on galoshes seem flimsy and possibly not enough traction to me. You don't need snow boots either.

Thank you for all the very helpful advice!

Melnq8,
We're from New York, and you're right, we were nervous about the possibility of deeper snow than what you describe, so that is good news.

peterSale,
I think your idea of renting is wonderful, we hadn't thought of that. And thanks so much for the link. Since we're flying in and out of Launceston, the store location is perfect. I'll wait until summer and then contact the store to confirm they have the gear in stock in the sizes we need. And I found your trip reports, and am enjoying reading them. We have 10 days in Tasmania. I know I'd like more.

Patty.
Yes, it does sound like light weight waterproof shoes will be the right way to go.


This advice is great, it removes a big question mark we had about this trip.

Now, anyone bold enough to venture a guess at the odds of no snow at Cradle Mountain in mid-September?

Not me!

This site will give you an idea of what to expect:

http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/averag...w_091119.shtml

And you might check this site as you prepare to pack:

http://www.weatherzone.com.au/tas/ce...radle-mountain

FYI - we were told by a woman in the Cradle Mtn Visitor's Center that Cradle Mountain only gets about 35 really nice days per year and it had snowed just two days before we were there (this was in October). Apparently it rains 7 days out of 10 and the sun shines only 1 day in 10.

So, if you get a nice day, take full advantage!

In case that case we were very lucky we had two days in row that superb weather and walked about 30km.

Ten days in Tasmania is a good amount of time. Most people try and do it is 5-7 and it gets a bit rushed.

The boardwalk track at Cradle is well worth doing. It is best to start at Ronnie creek and head back towards the Park centre. Take the shuttle bus.

If you want a challenge the Dove Canyon walk if great but, the track is rough and not regularly maintained. In parts it is very narrow and at one stage almost vertical as you scramble up rocks. But it was a highlight.

Enjoy

Tasmania weather will be ok when you plan on walking the beautfull Cradle trail. during the day long sleeve should be fine.

at nights, there are some places where you can find a hut in the middle of the trail so you can park for the night (and even leave a note in the past traveler's book).

when i did it i had a good sleeping bag and left my clothes to dry untill the morning (so packing was minimal) and yes.. i know i took the hardcore "smelly" way to do that

Cheers!

Thanks again for all the useful information and ideas.

I suddenly realized that renting boots/clothing might be a problem since we are arriving on a Sunday, so I emailed Tasequiphire (Backpacker Equipment Hire) and received a reply from Douglas Snare, who let me know that wouldn't be a problem. He seems very nice.

I'll report back here after the trip to let you know how the renting went (as well as writing a trip report).

BTW, they also rent bicycles, which we would have liked to do if we were traveling during a warmer time of year.