I’ll be the first to admit, when I first heard about packrafting, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. 

The idea of paddling a small, inflatable boat through wild rivers seemed both thrilling and a little intimidating. But after spending three days on the Mersey River during the Alum Cliffs Wilderness Packraft trip, I can confidently say that it’s one of the most rewarding and unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had.

If you’re wondering what it’s really like to packraft, and whether it’s something you can handle, here’s a glimpse into my adventure—and how the incredible guides made all the difference in helping me feel safe, confident, and ready for anything.

What is Packrafting, Really?

I’d heard of packrafting before, but it wasn’t until I tried it that I understood just how versatile and accessible it is. Packrafts are small, inflatable boats designed for navigating rivers and lakes, and unlike larger kayaks or canoes, they are incredibly light and portable. The best part? They are super stable, which made me feel much more at ease as a first-time packrafting paddler.

Tasmania's Alum Cliffs Wilderness trip is the perfect place to try packrafting. We spent three days exploring the Mersey River, which weaves through one of Tasmania’s most pristine and remote landscapes. 

There’s something magical about being in a small boat, gliding along the river, surrounded by towering cliffs and dense rainforest. It was like entering another world.

How Does a Packraft Work?

I was a little nervous about how to handle the packraft, but I quickly learned how easy it is to get started. After we were outfitted with our gear, including life jackets, helmets, and paddles, our guide gave us a thorough briefing. We practiced paddling techniques on calm waters, learning how to steer, move forward, and stop. The packraft itself was surprisingly stable and forgiving, which made me feel more comfortable right away.

What really struck me was how responsive the packraft was. In flat sections of the river, it was effortless to glide along. But when we reached some of the rapids, things got a little more exciting. Our guide was fantastic at helping us adjust to the changing conditions. She was patient and encouraging, guiding us through the process of navigating faster water, while always ensuring we stayed safe.

As the days went on, I felt more confident, especially when we entered the narrow, rocky sections of the river. The packraft’s stability and the guide’s tips allowed me to focus more on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about balancing.

Is Packrafting Safe?

One of my biggest concerns going into the trip was safety. After all, we were navigating a river with some challenging rapids. 

But from the very start, our guides made sure we were fully prepared. They took the time to explain the risks of paddling on moving water, pointing out potential hazards like rocks and swift currents, and most importantly, she taught us the techniques to stay safe.

During the entire trip, I always felt like I was in good hands. Before we started, the guides did a thorough safety briefing and showed us how to handle the packraft in different situations. They also talked us through what to do if we fell out of the boat (which I’ll admit, I was a little worried about!). Having their expertise at my side made all the difference. If we ever got into tricky situations, they were right there, ready to offer tips and encouragement.

There were a few moments during the rapids when I lost balance, but the guide’s calm and clear instructions helped me get back in the boat with ease. She was never far away, and that reassurance was invaluable.

Is Packrafting Hard?

At first, I thought packrafting might be difficult, especially when we encountered rapids. But with our guide’s help, I quickly realized that it’s not as hard as it seems. The packrafts are designed for stability, and our guide was there every step of the way to help me build my skills.

The first day was all about learning the basics—how to paddle, how to steer, and how to work with the water. Our guide explained everything in a way that made sense, and by the time we got to some of the more challenging sections, I felt comfortable navigating the river. 

Of course, there were moments when I was unsure, but that’s when the guide’s support really shone. They helped me improve my technique, corrected my strokes, and made sure I was always in the right position to avoid obstacles.

By the third day, I felt like I had really mastered the basics. I wasn’t an expert by any means, but I could confidently paddle through the calmer stretches and was starting to handle the rapids with more ease.

What’s the Difference Between a Packraft and an Inflatable Kayak?

Before the trip, I was curious about how a packraft differed from an inflatable kayak. Both are inflatable, but I quickly learned that packrafts are smaller, lighter, and more maneuverable. While inflatable kayaks are great for calm lakes or slow-moving rivers, packrafts are built to handle a range of conditions, including rougher waters and narrow, rocky rivers like the Mersey.

What really sold me on packrafting was its portability. We were able to go to remote areas and then set up camp without worrying about bulky equipment. That kind of flexibility and ease of transport is something I hadn’t experienced before, and it made the adventure feel even more immersive.

How Stable is a Packraft?

I’ll be honest: I was nervous about stability. But the packrafts are incredibly stable, especially for such small boats. They’re wider and shorter than kayaks, which makes them much more forgiving in terms of balance. Even when we hit some fast-moving sections of the river, I felt secure.

Of course, nothing is foolproof, and I did tip over once or twice, but it wasn’t as bad as I expected. Our guides were right there to help me out of the water, and the packraft was easy to get back into. Overall, the stability made the experience much more enjoyable because I didn’t have to worry constantly about flipping.

How Fast Can You Paddle a Packraft?

Paddling speed wasn’t something I focused on much during the trip. On calm stretches, the packraft moved at a decent pace, but the real fun came from navigating the rapids and taking in the scenery. The guide made sure we didn’t rush; the goal was more about enjoying the experience and mastering the skills as we went along. In the faster currents, we sped up a bit, but we were never in a race—we were there to explore and appreciate the beauty of the wilderness.

Looking back on my Alum Cliffs Wilderness Packraft trip, I can honestly say it was an adventure of a lifetime. Packrafting turned out to be far less daunting than I thought, and with the guide’s support, I was able to quickly gain the confidence I needed to handle the Mersey River’s varying conditions.

If you’re considering a packrafting trip, I highly recommend giving it a go. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some paddling experience, the stability of the packraft, combined with the guidance of an experienced instructor, will make for a fun, safe, and rewarding experience. For me, the best part was being able to explore Tasmania’s wild and remote landscapes from a completely different perspective. The beauty of the river, the cliffs, and the forest, combined with the excitement of paddling through it, made this an unforgettable adventure.

Linda, QLD

Do you prefer to travel independently? Self-guided Overland Track walkers need to keep reading. If you travel on a guided Overland Track walk with us, you can relax.

If you have your sights set on completing the Overland Track but are unsure how the permit system works, we have you covered. This short guide will give you the ins and outs of obtaining a permit for guided and self-guided walks on the track, what it covers, why they are necessary, when the permits are released and what options you have if you miss out.

Organising your Overland Track permits

You are required to have a permit pass when walking the Overland Track. Whether you join a guied walk or a self-guided trek, Tasmanian Expeditions takes the hassle out of organising this with the permit and the Cradle-Mountain-St Clair National Park pass covered.

As an operator on the Overland Track, Tasmanian Expeditions secures the National Park passes and associated track passes each year for all our trekkers. It is a process that takes place well in advance before the season commences to ensure that when you want to go, we can get them locked in. 

However, for self-guided walkers, permits and passes are issued in limited supply, so booking in early is your best shot at securing them.

These permits are released from July 1 and tend to sell out within days during the peak season.

*Note: limited permits are available a day to trekkers on the track during the summer season (October to May) – 34 of which are for independent walkers. You can visit the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Services website for the latest information.

RELATED: Everything you need to know about the Overland Track >

 

Why do I need a permit to walk the Overland Track?

The Overland Track permits help avoid overcrowding on the track and the fee contributes to the sustainable management of the track.

As most of the track is not serviceable by road, the permits manage the record of walkers entering the fragile environment to account for the impact of the track and surrounding wilderness. The preservation of the wilderness is essential to safeguard the area for its flora and fauna and for people to experience the beauty of Tasmania's Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Everyone who walks the Overland Track will need to purchase an Overland Track Permit if planning to do it from October to May. However, for the months June to September, while no permit is needed, you do need to register.

 

What about the National Parks pass?

All walkers are also required to possess a current Tasmanian National Parks Pass regardless of the time of year.

What happens if I miss out on a self-guided permit?

Missed out on a permit on your preferred date? Don't stress! You can jump onto our guided Overland Track where we have permits secured in advance.

If you prefer a self-guided walk, why not explore the Overland Track's underrated neighbour, Walls of Jerusalem? This more remote World Heritage alpine wilderness of Tasmania does not require the purchase of permits, with equally spectacular natural landscapes that are only accessible on foot.

Plus, it attracts much fewer visitors than the Overland Track making it very alluring for those who want to get away from it all. Read more about the Walls of Jerusalem walk versus the Overland Track in this blog post.

 

Does my Overland Track permit confirm a spot in the huts on the track?

While your booking confirms your place and date of departure, when walking self-guided, this does not guarantee a place in the huts along the track.

The public huts cannot be booked and are available on a first-come-first-serve basis, therefore walkers are required to carry a tent if a hut is full. But rest assured that when travelling with Tasmanian Expeditions, quality gear use is part of the package so you aren't caught out in bad weather.

If camping-based trekking isn't your thing, you can experience a private luxury hut stay on the Cradle Huts Overland Track trip to add a little more comfort to your walking holiday. The exclusive huts are well hidden away from the public huts and campsites with the luxury of returning to a hot shower, a potbelly heater, comfy beds and a Tassie wine after each day's walk on the Overland Track.

 

Does my permit include transport transfer to and from the track?

If you purchase your permit independently, the Overland Track permit fee does not include transport to/from the track, or the privately-owned Lake St Clair Ferry. It would be your responsibility to organise these transport links. However, if travelling with an experienced operator, like Tasmanian Expeditions, transfers can easily be organised.

 

Ways to experience the Overland Track & Cradle Mountain area

The Overland Track is internationally renowned, home to the famous Cradle Mountain and Tasmania’s highest mountain Mt Ossa at 1617 metres. The 65-kilometre trail begins at Ronny Creek with the majestic Cradle Mountain towering in the distance. Winding through ancient rainforests, alpine meadows, waterfalls and mountain ranges leading to the summit. Viewing the native endemic flora and wildlife the track ends at scenic Lake St Clair.

 

The track can be experienced in the main season with our guides or self-guided where all the logistics, food (you get to choose from a menu!), equipment, support and passes are included. You can choose from camping or use private huts along the track. It can also be explored in the winter for a guided walk into a white snowy wonderland where you can try out snowshoeing. View our range of trips.

Whichever walking experience on the Overland Track you choose – guided, self-guided, in summer or winter, staying in tents or private huts, rest assured your National Park passes will be provided to you when booking with Tasmanian Expeditions. But don't leave your decision too long as they do sell out!

It would be an understatement to say Tim Cope is an inspiring person. He has journeyed over 10,000km from Mongolia to Hungary by horse, rowed 4,500km in a leaky wooden boat down the Yenisey River from southern Siberia to the Arctic Ocean, and cycled from Moscow to Beijing by bike - a 10,000km journey that took him 14 months.

Needless to say, he's incredibly adventurous - which is why he's been named the past Australian Adventurer of the Year, Mongolian Tourism Envoy and is the recipient of the Mongolian Tourism Excellency Medal. He's also the author of one of Australia's bestselling books, "On The Trail Of Genghis Khan: An Epic Journey Through the Lands of the Nomads" which won the 'Best Adventure Travel Book' and the 'Grand Prize' at the Banff International Mountain book and Film Festival 2013.

We sat down with Tim to find out what exactly he finds so fascinating about travelling the world, in particular his passion for exploring Mongolia. From finding out his most transformative travel experiences, favourite words of wisdom from the Kazakhs, and how the spirit of adventure became so deeply entwined in his way of life, be prepared to meet an extraordinary human being and find out how you can join him on his next adventure!

1. You’ve got a pretty interesting history and have seen a lot of Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Siberia. Where was the first place you travelled? Was it off the beaten path or something touristy that inspired you to seek less packaged experiences?

I was fortunate to have a father who was an outdoor educator, so all my early journeys were in my home region of Gippsland. Hiking at Wilsons Promontory, cross-country skiing in the Victorian Alps, and surfing at Waratah Bay are some of my fondest childhood memories. However my first overseas trip, which I think influenced my path greatly, was trekking in the Annapurna region of Nepal when I was 16 years old (in 1994). I went to a small school in the town of Warragul, and the concept of travelling to Nepal was first put to students of our year level by my English teacher Rob Devling. Over two years we all had to earn our way to Nepal including raising money for the Fred Hollows Eye Foundation. The trek was actually run by World Expeditions, and the combination of physical challenge, culture and awe-inspiring landscapes that unfolded (for me particularly meeting the Nepalese people was the highlight) have remained the recipe for the kind of journeys that drive me on today.

2. In 2004 you took off on a 10,000 km journey from Mongolia to Hungary by horse called “In The Footsteps of Genghis Khan”. That’s a pretty incredible journey – what are the biggest lessons you learned on that trip?

On a journey that ballooned from an 18-month plan to a three-and-a-half-year epic, patience was something that Nomads taught me. The Kazakhs have a saying - "If you must rush in life...rush slowly" - it is an approach to life that I have tried to carry over into my life since the journey. But perhaps the greatest lesson was the need to constantly appeal to the better side of human nature wherever I went. I had to make friends from all walks of life, and as a result both my inner and outer world expanded dramatically and I came to appreciate how important human relationships are.

3. On this journey you experienced some significant moments; including receiving your loyal dog Tigon as a gift, being invited to the Khan’s palace in Crimea, and having your horses stolen at 2 a.m., five days into your 10,000km journey. It’s a hard ask, but what’s your most memorable moment on your trip?

Ultimately I think one of the most memorable moments was riding through the high Altai Mountains of Mongolia in 2004. I remember clinging onto the mane of my horse for dear life on the edge of a gorge only for a lady leading a six-camel caravan to come casually riding down from a labyrinth of rock. When she stopped she made the lead camel kneel down, and then revealed a young baby wrapped up in a cane basket high up on the camel's humps.

It left me with the impression that these people live so closely with their animals, in camaraderie with them, that they put more trust in their animals with their precious loved ones than we might do with fellow human beings sometimes in our own society. For me, this symbolises the symbiotic and harmonious relationship that nomads have with their animals and in turn with the land.

4. Did you see a contradiction in being deliberately and geographically isolated from civilization yet technologically connected to the outside world via your sat phone and laptop?

Horses allowed me to transcend the modern era and slip back into a timeless age, free of mechanical transport and roads. The world is still a very big and enchanting place from the back of a horse, and the needs of a horse haven't changed since they were first domesticated on the Eurasian steppe about 6,000 years ago. At the same time, I did what any nomad does today - I took with me the technologies that could help me (and in my case help share my journey) but which don't compromise that horseback, free-roaming way of life. It was a contradiction in some ways, but I would probably argue that I wasn't trying to isolate myself from civilisation - I was trying to immerse myself in a different kind of ancient civilisation, that of nomadic society.

5. You’ve won a number of awards which commend you for your spirit of adventure. Can you tell us a bit about your passion for embarking on journeys and why they are so important to you?

Journeys allow me to pursue my curiosity, expand my horizons, and ultimately bring me a greater sense of understanding on my return home. Even in the information age of the internet, there is no substitute for that very sensory experience of adventure.

6. Most recently, you’ve received the Mongolian Tourism Excellency Medal and have been inaugurated as tourism envoy for Mongolia. What is it about Mongolia that resonates so deeply with you?

It is the only nation on the Eurasian steppe, and perhaps the world, where nomad culture still dominates. Out on the steppe time is measured more by the seasons, the availability of grass, and water, and less by hours, days and weeks. I believe the sense of harmony and sustainability with which the nomads live with the land holds valuable lessons for us all.

7. You’ve been quoted as saying that “To live in the city, in a world of abundance and disconnection where everything is controlled at the touch of a button, for me that feels like... death." What do you think we could learn from the nomadic cultures of Mongolia?

There is a Mongolian saying that certainly transformed my own understanding of the world and rescued me time and time again out on the Eurasian steppe. When, on the fifth day of my trip my horses were stolen, and then recovered, a nomad said to me "A man on the steppe without friends is as narrow as a finger... a man on the steppe with friends is as wide as the steppe." Nomads after all embrace the reality that only by being part of a community and getting along with others from all walks of life, is life survivable let alone enjoyable.

That is one of many lessons that I have learnt and have tried to convey in my book, film, and the ongoing series of talks that I give. Beyond that, as I mentioned in my last answer, I believe that the way in which nomads acknowledge they are part of a much greater web of life and live in harmony with their environment is something that is deeply moving and that I hope resonates with the participants of my treks.

8. As an inspirational speaker, you show people that individuals are capable of great things. Is that part of why you take on these journeys and adventures?

Writing was my first passion even before travel - when I was 14 I was determined to become an author. I've always loved digesting things for myself in words and then sharing them with others and over time this has expanded to documentary films, photography and speaking. I like the way in which storytelling can engage people and allow them to step out of the frame of their normal lives even if it is just temporarily.

9. Can you tell us who inspired you to challenge yourself, test your limits and travel so extensively across some of the more remote countries in the world?

   Apart from my father, who I think sewed the seeds of adventure in me as a young child, I would have to say that listening to Tim Macartney-Snape speak when I was 16 years old and then later watching his film and reading his book had a big impact on me. Authors such as Wilfred Thesiger and Joe Simpson also inspired me in different ways - the former for his fascination and admiration of nomad culture, and the latter for having the courage to pursue an unconventional path in life.

    

For over 30 years, award-winning photographer Mike Edmondson has been viewing our world’s most spectacular landscapes through the lens of a camera, capturing the beauty of the outdoors. 

Now, he’s taking travellers on their own photography journeys - so, keep reading and get to know this Jindabyne local legend.

Firstly, describe yourself in five words.

• Friendly

• Creative

• Outdoorsy

• Fun

• Passionate

What are you most proud of?

I incorporated my photography and creativity into starting and running the Paddy Pallin Jindabyne franchise outdoor shop for 23 years.

From 1981 to 2005, Mike owned and managed the Paddy Pallin Outdoor Adventure shop in Jindabyne. From here, he started guiding people into the backcountry of Kosciuszko and used his photography skills to market the business. He also opened the first photographic gallery in Jindabyne - showcasing the best of his alpine photography.

Do you have a life motto? 

My life purpose is to reconnect people to nature through my photography and guided walks.

What is the best travel advice someone has given you?

Be adaptable & and respectable in different cultures.

How do you define ‘adventure travel’? 

Exploring new and more isolated areas in different cultures.

Three items you pack for every trip:

1. Camera – (Most of Mike’s images are taken with a Linhof Technorama 617, Nikon FE2 and F90 Film Cameras, as well as an Olympus C-8080, Nikon D700, Nikon D800E and Nikon D850 Digital Cameras)

2. Waterproofs 

3. Curiosity

What are the key factors you consider when selecting an adventure travel destination?

Is it a new experience? 

Is it active, in nature, with spectacular scenery? 

Will I be sharing it with good company?

I’m looking forward to exploring and sharing the Walls of Jerusalem in summer wildflower bloom and autumn colours with other excited photographers. 

Do you have any preparation tips for trekking photographers?

Try hill walking with a loaded backpack and the boots you’ll be wearing. Carefully plan out what to pack using a checklist, and practice manually focusing on stars for astrophotography in the dark before you come.

Respecting the traditions of First Nations people, working in partnership to promote education of cultural heritage, is one of the core tenets of our Thoughtful Travel Charter. As a company, we support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

Not only by engaging with them in our operations as we currently do, thus bringing a precious perspective of the importance of connection to land, but also and on a broader level, their pursuit for equality and recognition. 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people hold a unique status as the first peoples of Australia, having lived here for more than 65,000 years. We believe that it is time to acknowledge their connection to our great country. 

For almost 40 years we have worked with Traditional Landowners and local First Nations communities in order to bring to you some of Australia’s greatest adventure experiences. When the Garma Festival first allowed non-indigenous travellers to attend, the World Expeditions Travel Group were honoured to have been chosen to be the only company to assist with travel arrangements. 

Having long worked with remote and minority communities around the world, whether providing a community or Regenerative Project for our travellers, or Service Learning experience for schools, one key learning has been that only through consultation and feedback from the communities on matters relating to them can we hope to truly assist them. 

Based on our experiences, we believe what the Voice proposes is a very reasonable proposition.

Recognition: We agree that it is time our nation formally recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the first people of Australia. 

Voice to Parliament: A representative body of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, sitting outside the parliament, providing advice – not a veto or decision-making capacity - on issues related to them, is a sensible way forward based on what we have learned assisting communities around the world. 

Referendum: To avoid such a policy becoming a political hot-potato, we agree that the only way for formal recognition is a permanent change in the national rule-book – the Australian Constitution. 

Since Federation, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have advocated for constitutional reform to recognise their rights as the first people of our nation. In 1967, the Australian people overwhelmingly responded to change the Constitution to count First Nations people in our census. In 2023, they seek to be formally recognised on a land that they have occupied for over 65,000 years. 

For these reasons, we support the ‘Yes’ campaign for the Voice to Parliament.

In 1967 we were counted, in 2017 we seek to be heard. We leave base camp and start our trek across this vast country. We invite you to walk with us in a movement of the Australian people for a better future. 

Uluru Statement From The Heart

In 2022, our Australian program was Triple Certified by Ecotourism Australia, which includes Respecting our Culture Certification.

HELPFUL RESOURCES

• Voice to Parliament Handbook: All the detail you need - Thomas Mayo, Kerry O'Brien and Cathy Wilcox
• Voice to Parliament online training course
• Reconciliation Australia
• Uluru Statement From The Heart - read the full Statement
• Constitutional Amendment and Referendum Question

Regenerative Travel is a relatively new term in travel circles that aims to go beyond sustainable travel practices. While sustainable travel focuses on minimising negative impacts and returning a net neutrality on the environment and local communities, Regenerative Travel aims to have a positive and transformative effect on those environments and communities. 

Put simply, the core principle of Regenerative Travel urges travellers to have a positive impact by giving back more than they take from the destinations they visit. 

The term was born during the Covid pandemic, when locations typically overtouristed began to see improvements in key indicators like air quality, and less pollution. 

The question was soon posed - how can these improvements continue when travellers return? How can a destination benefit yet still incentivise the protection of natural and cultural assets AND still provide an enriching experience for the traveller? 

Enter, Regenerative Travel. 

A Regenerative Travel program involves travellers committing to activities such as actively restoring and regenerating ecosystems, supporting local economies, engaging in community lead initiatives, fostering cultural exchange and reducing their carbon footprint. 

The benefits of Regenerative Travel are seen on many levels. This type of 'slow travel' seeks to create a net positive cycle, where travellers and destinations mutually benefit from the experience, leaving a lasting positive impact on the environment, building capacities for local communities, and increasing respect for cultures encountered during the journey. 

When travellers support locally driven initiatives and businesses, the communities receive the resources they require to care for and protect their environment. 

The demand for this style of travel also drives the local communities to engage in activities supporting this regenerative approach, and the traveller, sharing more meaningful experiences during their journey, is more driven to respect and protect the land and local communities while travelling. 

We have teamed up with a local NGO, T-HELP, to implement a service program and help train local female farmers in the techniques of vermicomposting. This is combined with a group trek through the Annapurna Range through small farming communities and villages, into the location of the service program, gaining an understanding of the local environment and terrain, as well as gaining incomparable views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. 

Overall, Regenerative Travel offers travellers a unique opportunity to combine personal growth, cultural understanding, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. It empowers people to become responsible global citizens who actively contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive world.

It’s the biggest adventure you can do in the smallest state of Australia. 

The Great Tasmanian Traverse is one epic adventure, but don't take out word for it, check out these numbers to give you an idea of the challenge that awaits.

The Great Tasmanian Traverse in numbers

1617

The height of Tasmania's tallest mountain, Mt Ossa, which features on the Overland Track section

1446

The height of Frenchmans Cap, a side-trip that features on the Franklin River rafting section

407

If you were to drive from the starting point of the trip to the end point, this is how many kilometres it would be

129

The length of the Franklin River in kilometres

65

The length of the Overland Track in kilometres (without side-trips)

39

The number of days that it will take to complete the Great Tasmanian Traverse

23

The amount of trekking days, and nights spent in a tent

18-22

Approximate average weight of the pack, in kilograms, you would need to carry on the trekking section

8

Days it will take to raft the Franklin River

7

Trip grading level out of 10 (challenging, the toughest level before entering mountaineering grading levels)

6-8

Hours a day of activity

5

The number of classic Tasmanian adventures that link together that make up the Great Tasmanian Traverse

2-3

Number of our experienced guides that will join you on each section

1

Tour operator that operates this amazing Tasmanian wilderness experience

If there’s one Tasmanian plant that could be called the life of the party, it’s the fagus.

The beautiful fagus has become such a popular part of Tasmanian folklore that there are now fagus crafts and jewellery, fagus helicopter tours, fagus-infused products like gin, and even a fagus festival at Cradle Mountain.

You might call it the little tree that could.

Also known by its scientific name Nothofagus gunnii, fagus is a compact deciduous alpine beech tree with small oval-shaped leaves. It has grown in Tasmania for 40 million years.

According to Parks and Wildlife Tasmania, fagus is a paleoendemic species of a Gondwanan group, and there are similar species of beech tree in New Zealand and South America. It goes by the name fagus, but it’s also called deciduous beech and “tanglefoot”—because it grows close to the ground and gets tangled up the feet of bushwalkers.

Fagus has been called a "winter-deciduous" plant—in fact, it's one of only a handful of deciduous plants in Australia—so it comes alive with colour in late April and early May. It’s a period that Tasmanians have come to call the “Turning of the Fagus”. Its small crinkly leaves, which look a lot like potato chips, turn bright yellow then orange then red (some even become a rich claret colour), and the plant covers huge swaths of the wilderness making for quite a show. Bushwalkers have been known to come around a corner in Tasmania and be overwhelmed by the beauty the fagus cover.

The best places to see fagus are on the flanks of Cradle Mountain, around Lake St Clair, in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, in Mount Field National Park, and in Southwest National Park. It’s worth a visit to any of these places for one of the great colour displays in Australia.

To be sure Tasmania is home to some stupendous vegetation. The state is also home to some of the most ancient plant species on earth, including King's Holly (estimated to be at least 43,000 years old), the world's tallest flowering tree, the giant ash, and many beautiful small plants such as terrestrial orchids.

And while fagus isn’t as famous as its Tasmanian cousins like the Huon pine or the King Billy pine, it’s far more colorful and will brighten up any journey in the Tasmanian bush, especially one that’s required an all-day, thigh-busting tramp.

Humans like to name things. Psychologists have known for years that it’s a part of our psyche, part of our humanness—we want to label everything we can.

Including the wilderness.

In 1849, Scottish-born surveyor James Scott did just that when he surveyed an area of wilderness south of Mole Creek in north central Tasmania. On his charts, he dubbed the area the Walls of Jerusalem because the mountains and crags of the area reminded him of the actual walls of the city of Jerusalem.

Surveyor Scott might’ve gotten the ball rolling, but it was another adventurer who kept it moving.

Reginald George “Reg” Hall (1907–81) was a Launceston lawyer who had a huge passion for the wild areas of Tasmania and spent many days bushwalking in them. In fact, he preferred bushwalking to almost everything else.

“Hall had no interest in conveyancing, a solicitor’s bread-and-butter, preferring to work as a civil and criminal lawyer, mounting court defences for clients who sometimes paid him in kind including potatoes, fruit, and fresh-water crayfish, rather than in cash,” according to Heritage Tasmania.

“His repudiation of conveyancing left him time to pursue his real passions of hiking, skiing and designing buildings, watercraft and bush gear such as tents, rucksacks and waterproof clothing. At a time when there was little specialised hiking gear, Hall compared designs with the work of Paddy Pallin in Sydney, who regarded him as a peer and even sent him new equipment to trial.”

Hall invented a bamboo framed backpack, homemade snow goggles, and a folding kayak, and he developed a handful of huts in various Tasmanian wildernesses, notably Halls Hut on an island in Lake Malbena.

During his 1849 survey, Scott named the Walls and Lake Ball, but nothing else. So, when Hall first visited the Walls in December 1928, he had a blank slate. During his many trips to the area during the following two decades Hall named most of the biblically named features that we know today.

Hall was responsible for such fanciful names as The Temple, King Davids Peak, Herods Gate, Solomons Throne, Mount Jerusalem, Golden Gate, Zion Vale, Lake Salome, and the Pool of Bethesda. He named the imposing dolerite Gate of Damascus, and the sparkling tarns of Solomons Jewels.

In 1954, about 20 of the names Hall suggested were accepted by the Nomenclature Board.

Hall wasn’t the only one interested in the solace he found in the soon-to-be Walls of Jerusalem National Park.

According to Heritage Tasmania, hiking in the Western Lakes/Walls of Jerusalem area had begun by 1886 and many anglers and graziers were visiting the area by the start of the twentieth century.

Some of these early visitors built huts, which you’ll visit on our Walls of Jerusalem trips.