National Parks and Reserves

Lake Esperance is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. The 60 Great Short Walks offer the best of Tasmania’s day walking opportunities.

1.5-2 hours return, 3.4 km return. Grade 3.

The brute movement of ice has created the beautiful Lake Esperance. Nestled beneath the dolerite spine called The Devils Backbone the lake was formed as ice and snow built up on the lee side of the mountains. It is one of the more accessible glacial lakes in Hartz Mountains National Park.

Much of the walk is on well constructed boardwalk, although this may be covered in snow in winter. At the lake there’s a viewing area with seats. Examples of cushion plants can be seen here in this harsh, often waterlogged environment.

Please refer to the Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania website (parks.tas.gov.au) for up-to-date information about this walk, alerts, closures, safe walking guidelines, leave no trace principles and National Park entry fees where applicable.