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If you consider fast packing or trail running your favorite activity, you might want to check out the trails of Tasmania, Australian island state. This island is home to 19 national parks and offers day hikers as well backpackers a multitude of trails all over. In fact, Tassie is probably the best region in the southern hemisphere for multi day hill walking or even for day hiking.

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Here, weather can change with the blink of an eye. Clouds and rain one moment. Bright sunshine along with bone chilling cold (even in summer). From what have I heard and learned about this part of the world, the climate is very weird indeed. But, don’t let this discourage you from your hiking plans. The Tasmanian park service people has plenty of offers for the hikers.

At cradle mountain, the park service maintains a bus service every 10 minutes from outside the parking lot. Also, if you don’t feel like scrambling up rocks, you can consider a leisurely stroll up paved terrain that are even wheelchair friendly. Guess what? Tassie even offers some skiing in winter. So, there’s something for everyone.

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Central Tasmania is about 1900 miles north of Antarctic circle. That’s the distance between El Paso and Washington. Smart hikers equip themselves with extra gear which does come in handy sometimes.If you come to Tassie , make sure you hike up the customary trail to Mt Wellington, overlooking Hobart. At the top superb vistas will be waiting for you.

I am sure this will be an unforgettable journey for you. To keep things comfy, make sure you pack several layers, and survival gear. However, for fast hiking tent is not required since you will have a base like a hut.


Image Credits: Chockstone [1], [2], [3]