A Place Called "National Park"

Keen-eyed Google Maps users might notice that Mount Field National Park appears to be located in a town simply called "National Park." This unusual name is a relic from nearly a century ago.

When Mount Field and Freycinet became Tasmania's first national parks in 1916, Mount Field was originally designated simply as National Park. It wasn't officially renamed until 1937—two decades after its declaration—which, understandably, can cause some confusion.

The park takes its name from Judge Barron Field, an early judge of the NSW Supreme Court who made two tours of duty to Van Diemen's Land in 1819 and 1821. Lady Barron Falls, naturally, was named in honor of his wife.

Conservation Pioneers

Mount Field holds an important place in Tasmania's conservation history. The magnificent twin cascade of Russell Falls was declared the state's first nature reserve in 1885—long before the concept of national parks even existed in Australia.

Some thirty years later, in 1916, Mount Field became one of Tasmania's first national parks alongside Freycinet. This early protection ensured that today's visitors can experience the same pristine rainforest and alpine landscapes that have captivated people for over a century.

Getting There & Getting Around

Mount Field National Park is easily accessible by car, sitting about 90 minutes northwest of Hobart via the scenic route through Westerway. The final approach winds through hop fields and rural countryside before entering the park's ancient forests.

The main visitor area around Russell Falls has excellent facilities including a visitor centre, café, and well-maintained car parks. From here, you can access the most popular walks including the Three Falls Track and Tall Trees Circuit.

For more adventurous visitors, the Lake Dobson Road leads higher into the park's alpine areas. This unsealed road climbs to 1,000 metres above sea level and provides access to the Tarn Shelf Circuit and other high-country walks. Note that this road may be closed in winter due to snow.

Facilities & Services

Mount Field offers excellent facilities for day visitors and overnight stays. The visitor centre provides maps, information, and interpretive displays about the park's natural and cultural history.

The on-site café serves light meals and refreshments—perfect for a post-walk coffee or lunch. There are also picnic areas with barbecue facilities and plenty of parking throughout the main visitor precinct.

Camping & Accommodation

The park offers camping facilities for those wanting to stay longer and explore more remote areas. Campgrounds provide basic amenities including toilets, water, and designated fire areas.

For a more comfortable stay, there are several accommodation options in nearby towns including Westerway and Maydena. Many visitors also base themselves in Hobart and make Mount Field a day trip.

When to Visit

Mount Field is spectacular year-round, but each season offers something different. Spring brings rushing waterfalls fed by snowmelt and the fresh green of new growth. Summer offers long days perfect for alpine adventures, though this is also the busiest time.

Autumn transforms the park with stunning colors, particularly around the deciduous beech trees in higher elevations. Winter can bring snow to the plateau areas, creating a magical alpine wonderland, though some higher-elevation walks may be inaccessible.

For waterfall enthusiasts, winter and spring offer the most dramatic flows. Alpine walkers should aim for summer and early autumn when weather conditions are most stable and access roads are reliably open.