Launceston’s location in northern Tasmania makes it an ideal starting point for exploring some of Australia’s most spectacular national parks. Surrounded by lush forests, rugged mountain ranges, and pristine lakes, this city offers quick access to unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether you’re after a comfortable day tour or a challenging multi-day hike, Launceston puts you close to nature’s best. We especially love how these tours combine natural beauty with local experiences — like visiting cheese farms or charming towns — making your trip both scenic and flavorful.
If you’re short on time, a full-day trip to Cradle Mountain is a fantastic way to see some of Tasmania’s most iconic scenery without sacrificing comfort or convenience. For those craving a more immersive experience, the takayna / Tarkine Wilderness Highlights Hiking Tour offers five days of trekking through remote rainforest and rugged wilderness. Below, we introduce the top three options, each catering to different interests and travel styles.
1. Cradle Mountain National Park Day Tour from Launceston
At number one, this 9.5-hour small group tour delivers a comprehensive day exploring Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. It’s perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free experience with all logistics handled. The tour starts with a hotel pickup in Launceston, then a scenic coach ride through farmland and lush landscapes to the majestic Cradle Mountain region.
What makes this tour stand out are the included stops: a visit to the Ashgrove Cheese Farm for tasting and learning about cheese-making, and a walk around Dove Lake, where you’ll take in breathtaking views of Cradle Mountain. The highlight is a professional-guided walk up to Glacier Rock, offering striking vistas. Along the way, your guide shares insights about Tasmania’s natural history and local culture, making the experience both scenic and educational.
The tour includes a lunch, fresh fruit, and water, adding value for a full day of exploring. With a 4.5-star rating based on 77 reviews, many visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary. One reviewer noted, “The views were amazing, and the guide made the day very enjoyable.”
Bottom line: This tour balances comfort, scenery, and local flavor, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day in Tasmania’s wilderness.
2. Cradle Mountain National Park by Coach from Launceston
Ranking second, this 9-hour coach tour offers a slightly more economical and straightforward way to see Cradle Mountain and its surroundings. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided bus trips but prefer fewer stops and a quicker pace. The journey takes you through Tasmania’s beautiful forests, with stops at charming towns like Sheffield and Deloraine.
This tour emphasizes Tasmanian forest scenery and includes a visit to a local cheese farm, adding a taste of regional produce. Although less detailed than the first, it still offers highlights like walks around Enchanted Forest and views of Cradle Mountain. It’s a good pick for travelers who want a more budget-friendly option or are pressed for time.
While it has a slightly lower rating of 4.1/5 based on 35 reviews, many customers appreciate the smooth logistics and scenic stops. One reviewer commented, “It’s a great way to see the area without worrying about driving, and the scenery was stunning.”
Bottom line: This tour provides a solid, quick overview of Cradle Mountain with good value, suitable for travelers who want a relaxed day without the added activities of longer tours.
3. takayna / Tarkine Wilderness Highlights Hiking Tour – 5 Days
For those with a serious love of wilderness trekking, the takayna / Tarkine five-day hiking tour is an exceptional choice. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from one reviewer, it’s a rare chance to explore Tasmania’s most remote rainforest and rugged coastlines in an intimate group.
This tour departs from Launceston and ventures deep into untouched wilderness, including rainforest walks at Philosopher Falls, hikes through Hellyer Gorge, and visits to small seaside towns like Penguin. The guides are qualified in wilderness first aid and specialize in eco-tourism, ensuring safe and responsible travel. The itinerary includes camping or eco-lodges, allowing for an immersive experience that’s both physically engaging and environmentally respectful.
The trip is tailored for active travelers who enjoy roughing it and want to see the diverse landscapes of the Tarkine—rainforest, waterfalls, and wild rivers. Given the price ($2,165.70), it’s an investment in a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Reviewers mention the guides’ depth of experience and how the trip surpasses expectations.
Bottom line: This multi-day trek is perfect for dedicated hikers and wilderness enthusiasts seeking an authentic, immersive Tasmania experience.
How to Choose the Best National Park Tour in Launceston
Picking the right tour depends on your available time, fitness level, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a luxurious, all-inclusive day trip, the Cradle Mountain Day Tour from Launceston (Tour #1) is hard to beat. If you want a more budget-conscious or quicker overview, the coach tour (Tour #2) fits well. And for serious adventurers with several days, the Tarkine wilderness offers unmatched immersion.
Consider your interests: if cheese or short walks appeal, Tour #1 is perfect. For a scenic drive with fewer stops, Tour #2 works. If you crave wilderness and hiking, the 5-day trek is your best bet. Booking early is advised, especially for the multi-day tour, which fills quickly.
In summary, Launceston offers a diverse array of national park tours to suit different tastes and schedules. Whether you prefer a comfortable day trip to iconic landscapes or an extended adventure into Tasmania’s wildest regions, there’s an option for you. For the best experience, plan ahead, pick a tour that matches your interests, and enjoy Tasmania’s stunning scenery.