Stay safe on the mountain
Tasmania is renowned for its magnificent bushwalking, but if you're not well prepared, it can be dangerous.
Weather conditions can change quickly in Tasmania – especially on the mountain. Icy winds, snow, low cloud and heavy rain can occur at any time of year. In summer, bushfires can start quickly.
The Parks and Wildlife Service developed a video on bushwalking preparation. It features essential tips for a safe walking experience. Their advice is important for walking on Kunanyi / Mt Wellington.
There is also a version with Mandarin subtitles: Essential safety tips for bushwalking in Tasmania (Mandarin subtitles)
For every 100 metres you ascend the temperature typically falls a degree. From The Springs to the summit the altitude increases by 600 metres. The temperature at the top is likely to be 6°C colder than The Springs – and if it's windy, it will feel even colder.
General safety advice
Check conditions before you go
Check the weather forecast and latest weather observations before you leave home.
Check the current status of Pinnacle Road to see if it's open or closed.
Wear warm and waterproof clothing
If you're walking on the mountain, you must have warm and waterproof clothing. Do not attempt in snow or poor visibility unless you are very experienced, well prepared, and with others.
Take enough food and water
Make sure to carry enough drinking water and food. Tap water at The Springs is collected from the mountain. Natural surface water in the park may not be safe to drink and may be hard to find at higher altitudes.
Give yourself time
Check when the sun sets and give yourself plenty of time to get off the mountain well before dark.
Be prepared to turn back
Conditions can change very quickly - you should always be prepared to turn back if walking. Low cloud can reduce visibility to a few metres and all tracks can be slippery in snow and ice.
Leave a plan
Tell someone reliable where you are going and when you're expected to return. This will help find you in an emergency. It's safer to walk with others.
Phone coverage
Mobile phone reception is variable. Install the Emergency+ app on your smartphone and learn how to use it.
Drive carefully
Be patient on the road as traffic may be slow. Leave double the normal distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Remember braking takes much longer in icy conditions.
Hypothermia
Cold, wet and windy conditions can quickly cause a drop in your core body temperature. This is known as hypothermia.
It can take as little as 30 minutes from the initial symptoms to unconsciousness.
- Prevention: Wear warm and waterproof clothes. Eat and drink regularly.
- Symptoms: shivering, clumsy, confused, slurred speech. Those affected may deny they have a problem.
- Treatment: make or find shelter immediately, get into warm and dry clothes, give warm sweet drinks, seek urgent medical help.
This short video will help you understand the dangers of being cold and how to be prepared.
There is also a version with Mandarin subtitles: Hypothermia video (Mandarin subtitles)
For help in a life threatening or emergency situation, call emergency services on 000.
Bushfires
Bushfires burn easily and devastatingly quickly. Only use designated hut fireplaces. Use firewood provided or BYO. It is an offence to collect firewood from Wellington Park.
The park will be closed on days with dangerous fire weather. If you plan to walk on days with elevated fire danger, carry a phone or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and have a carefully planned exit strategy.
In the event of a bushfire in the park, leave immediately using the safest route. If you are caught, phone 000.