Tasmania is one of the best states to visit if you are looking for beautiful walking trails. Combined with a driving holiday you are within a day of most walks, and there is so much to see and do in between. Most of the walks are found in the large expanses of national park found throughout the state. From the world renowned Cradle Mountain - Lake St Claire Park to the Freycinet National Park on the coast, you will be captivated by the scenery and challenge each walk brings.

So where do you start? The beauty of walking in Tasmania is that there are such a wide range of short walks, so you can drive in any direction and be guaranteed to find an easy and enjoyable walking trail. From the coast to the highlands there is a long list to choose from.

One of the best longer walks is the Tasmanian Trail. Beginning in Devonport on Tasmania’s north coast, and finishing in Dover in the south, you can enjoy a few sections of the walk in a day or complete more the 480 kilometre walk over a number of days. It takes in some of Tasmania’s hidden treasures and small old towns steeped in history. You will journey through old forests and through farmlands, over bridges and through some of the countries richest natural heritage.

Another well known and spectacular walk is located at Cradle Mountain. The Lake Dove Circuit takes just over an hour to complete and will take you around Dove Lake and to the base of Cradle Mountain. One of the most entrancing features of the walk is the Ballroom forest that towers above you closer to the end. Make sure you bring your camera.

Also in the same park, the Enchanted Walk will take you past a Pencil Pine Creek, rainforests and close to a large cluster of wombat burrows that are found along the trail. Taking close to twenty minutes, this walk is ideal for the whole family.

The more adventurous might want to head to the Cradle Mountain summit. The choice of track is weather dependant and you need to have a high level of fitness to attempt the eight hour trek. It is worth the time to reach the summit, with indescribable views of the national park that have to be seen to be believed.

To the west you will find a great trail leading to the mesmerising Montezuma Falls, one of Tasmania’s highest waterfalls. It is a moderate walk taking close to three hours to complete and you are rewarded with magnificent views at the base of the falls. Head to Williamsford and then on to Rosebery to find the trail a few kilometres to the south. There are a number of different tree species that will catch your eye as you enjoy the rainforest and plentiful species of birds.

The Freycinet Peninsula is one of the most popular locations for enjoyable walking, with views in every direction, the bays, beaches and granite boulders all add to the appeal of this location. Halfway up the east coast of Tasmania, head to Coles Bay to find some beautiful camping parks to base yourself and then begin your trekking. If you are looking for a longer walk, start at Coles Bay via Hazards Beach and then on to Cooks Beach. This walk is close to 13 kilometres and takes in some incredible coastal scenery. Returning via Mt Graham to Wineglass Bay, and then onto Coles Bay, you will cover close to 18 kilometres. Head to Wineglass Bay for a shorter walk and soak in the sun while you explore this fascinating stretch. There are plenty of places to walk in Tasmania. Why not join a walking tour through some of the country towns or historic cities? Or you can pull over to the side of the road and find an easy walk in no time. Throw a picnic together, head to a beautiful lookout and enjoy being alive in one of the loveliest places on earth. This is only a small handful of the extensive system of walking trails available, so the best way to begin is to find your walking shoes and plan a trekking holiday to Tasmania.

Jenny Brewer