Walkers forced to leave as fire threat closes Tasmania’s Overland Track
The Overland Track, one of Tasmania’s most iconic hiking routes, has been temporarily closed due to the threat posed by nearby bushfires. Authorities were prompted to act as the risk intensified, prioritising the safety of walkers and staff in the area.
The Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) confirmed that all visitors on the Overland Track were evacuated after the fire, which had been burning southwest of Lake St Clair, expanded in size due to heightened temperatures and strong winds. Parks and Wildlife Service staff assisted in the evacuation efforts as conditions became increasingly unpredictable. The closure impacts not only the Overland Track but also adjacent walking trails and campgrounds within the region as firefighting efforts continue.
Fire management teams, including PWS personnel, have been working alongside the Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) to assess and manage the risk to the area. Reports indicate that the fire is located within the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, part of Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area. The park’s rugged and inaccessible terrain makes firefighting efforts particularly challenging. Firefighting operations are focusing on containment strategies to limit the spread of the fire and protect surrounding areas.
The decision to close the Overland Track was made as a precaution, with officials citing the safety of hikers as their top priority. Hikers already on the track were contacted and advised to leave via the quickest and safest routes. Park rangers and emergency response teams coordinated the evacuation process, guiding visitors to exit points and ensuring all walkers were accounted for. At the time of reporting, no injuries or casualties have been reported among evacuees.
The Overland Track spans approximately 65 kilometres and is renowned for its striking natural beauty, including Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair, and alpine moorlands. Each year, thousands of local and international visitors embark on the multi-day trek, making it a significant tourist attraction for Tasmania. The temporary closure is expected to impact tourism operators and visitors with plans to explore the region, though authorities have not confirmed how long the track will remain closed.
Fire danger ratings in parts of Tasmania have been elevated in recent days, with the state’s hot and dry summer conditions fuelling the potential for more bushfires. Authorities have urged all visitors to Tasmania’s national parks and wilderness areas to stay informed about changing fire conditions and adhere to safety advice. Further updates on the Overland Track and other affected areas will be communicated via Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service’s official channels.
While details on the extent of the fire’s damage are not yet confirmed, early reports suggest that extensive firefighting efforts will be required to protect key locations within the wilderness area. The fire’s proximity to Lake St Clair and other significant landmarks has raised concerns about potential ecological and environmental impacts. Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area is recognised for its exceptional biodiversity, including species and ecosystems found nowhere else on earth.
The Tasmania Fire Service has recommended residents and visitors across fire-prone regions remain vigilant and prepared for potential emergency situations. With weather forecasts indicating prolonged dry conditions, authorities have emphasised the importance of fire safety precautions, including monitoring official updates and complying with fire bans where applicable.
It is not yet clear what ignited the fire near Lake St Clair, though investigations into its cause are expected to follow. Fire management agencies are often required to conduct assessments to determine the origins of bushfires, particularly in sensitive regions like Tasmania’s wilderness areas where human access is regulated.
Travel and tourism operators in Tasmania have expressed concern regarding the potential economic implications of closures due to fire risks. The Overland Track is a vital component of Tasmania’s tourism industry, contributing millions of dollars annually to the local economy. Regional businesses, transport services, accommodation providers, and guided tour operators are expected to see disruptions during the closure period, though stakeholders have acknowledged the importance of prioritising safety during emergencies.
The evacuation of walkers from the Overland Track comes as bushfire season accelerates in Australia, with various states experiencing outbreaks. Tasmania’s Parks and Wildlife Service has a well-established protocol for responding to bushfire threats, which includes visitor evacuations, trail closures, and coordination with firefighting agencies. These measures are designed to minimise risks to life, preserve environmental values, and allow emergency services to conduct their work without additional challenges posed by public access to affected areas.
International and domestic visitors with bookings or plans to hike the Overland Track have been advised to contact Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service for updates on the current situation. Affected individuals may also be eligible for refunds or credits if their plans are disrupted by the closure.
As firefighters continue efforts to safeguard Tasmania’s natural heritage, officials have urged community members to act responsibly and report any suspicious activity that could pose a fire risk. Public vigilance in preventing and responding to bushfire outbreaks is considered critical during high-risk periods.
This is a developing situation, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The fire’s progression, impact assessment, and reopening timeline for the Overland Track and the surrounding areas remain uncertain at this stage. Relevant details will be shared by the responsible authorities as they conduct ongoing monitoring and response activities.
References:
Pulse Tasmania (original source)
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service official updates
Tasmania Fire Service public announcements
Australian Bureau of Meteorology weather reports