2-4 night hike... Where to go? (Anywhere in Aus)

[Naynay]

Hi guys,
I am sure this topic has been covered a million times, but in early November, my husband and I are looking to undertake a hike from 2-4 nights.
I haven't done much hiking before, and am a little unfit, however my husband is very fit and experienced.
We are located in the Blue Mountains and have done numerous day hikes, but we are looking to fly somewhere and undertake a hike as a trip away.
My husband has suggested the Overland Track, which looks spectacular, but I'd love some more suggestions.
We have also considered zipping over to NZ for the hike, so will also consider any spectacular hikes there.


Thanks guys!

[stu]

I'd suggest Frenchmans Cap is a good alternative to the Overland Track.
Although it can be done in less time, 4 nights would allow plenty of time to explore.

Suggested itinerary:
Day 1 - car to Vera Hut (a fairly long day & potentially muddy through the 'sodden loddens').
Day 2 - Vera Hut to Tahune Hut, probably only half a day.
Day 3 - summit of Frenchmans, swim in Lake Tahune (cold), explore the area, take photos, relax.
Day 4 - Tahune Hut back to Vera hut (again, probably only half a day).
Day 5 - Vera Hut back to the car.

This is a very moderate itinerary really as it can be done fairly comfortably in 3 days.

Other suggestions:

Lake Rhona (2 nights plenty to go in, a day to explore the area, a day out).
Pine Valley-Labyrinth area, Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair NP (spectacular camping at Lake Elysia).
Wall of Jerusalem area (very easy access, could spend more time exploring surrounding areas).
Mt Anne Circuit (maybe a bit more demanding tho for an inexperienced walker).

I'd suggest you grab a copy of John Chapmans Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair & Walls of Jerusalem National Parks guide book or his South West Tasmania guide book depending on which part of the state you want to go to, plenty to chose from in those 2 books.

Enjoy your stay if Tasmania is your chosen venue

[Lizzy]

Hi Naynay,
If you end up choosing NZ there are heaps of options in that range. On the south island there are the Great Walks including - Milford, Routeburn & Kepler- these have huts (first 2 require booking) or you can camp (except Milford and only designated spots Routeburn). They are beautiful walks and if you like the company of fellow walkers of an evening the huts are great. All 3 of these walks go over a high pass and have lots of water/waterfalls. You could also do the Greenstone/Caples tracks or one of these + Routeburn- lovely. They also have huts but smaller and lower grade than great walks. The range over there is huge.... Abel Tasman is you want coastal, there are also plenty more remote... the options are endless. Good luck and have a blast. Of course Tasmania would also be awesome!
Lizzy
PS. Just beware that late spring may still have lots of snow and up high in NZ & some bridges may not be put back in place...

Attachments

Routeburn Track (late Nov 2009)

[SteveJ]

Save the airfare and do Nadgee Howe NP from Mallacotta to Nadgee ranger station (or the other way) in your home state.

Steve

[north-north-west]

While the Overland is considered a great intro to overnight walking, it's a real stretch for two virtual novices - especially if one is not that fit - to do it in four days. There are far better options in Tassie - Frenchman's, Cape Pillar, Freycinet, the Walls.