What It’s Like to Drive Tasmania’s Remote Highlands in Winter
What It’s Like to Drive Tasmania’s Remote Highlands in Winter
Driving through Tasmania’s highlands in winter is unlike any other road trip. It’s quiet, stunningly beautiful, and often completely untouched by crowds. With snow-dusted plains, frozen lakes, and the occasional wallaby bounding across the road, it’s a landscape that feels raw and remote—yet surprisingly accessible with the right preparation.
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Why Drive the Highlands in Winter
The Tasmanian highlands are stark and dramatic in the colder months. While popular spots like Cradle Mountain attract visitors, the central highlands remain a quiet, lesser-known destination. Winter transforms the region into a snowy escape where road trippers can enjoy solitude, dramatic vistas, and cosy village stops.
What to Expect on the Road
The roads can be icy in the mornings and evenings, and some unsealed tracks may become difficult to navigate. But with a reliable hire car and common sense, the drive is well within reach.
Expect long stretches with no phone reception, limited service stations, and very few towns. That’s part of the charm—but it means you’ll need to fuel up, plan ahead, and drive with care.
Key Destinations Worth the Drive
Great Lake and Miena
This glacial lake dominates the central plateau. The small town of Miena is one of Tasmania’s highest settlements and often dusted with snow. You’ll find fishing huts, windblown trees, and the kind of quiet that begs for a thermos and a thick coat.
Central Plateau Conservation Area
This protected wilderness area stretches across a huge portion of inland Tasmania. Roads lead you past alpine tarns, button grass moorlands, and lookout points with epic views. Best tackled with a 4WD in winter.
Arthurs Lake
A serene spot popular with anglers. In winter, it’s a peaceful stop for photos or a picnic (if you’re brave). Watch for frost and wildlife as you explore the backroads.
Highlands Power Trail
This self-guided drive connects historical hydro sites and explains how Tasmania’s remote terrain was harnessed to power the state. It’s a fascinating layer of local history, with roadside interpretive signs and stops.
Safety Tips for Winter Road Trips
Check weather and road closure reports before setting off
Drive slowly—ice can be invisible
Bring extra blankets, food, and water in case of delays
Tell someone your route and expected return
Avoid driving after dark if unfamiliar with the area
YesDrive Tips for Winter-Ready Car Hire
YesDrive offers a range of vehicles suitable for cooler climates, including SUVs and all-wheel drives ideal for the Tasmanian highlands. We can help you choose the right car, add winter essentials, and provide advice on your route.
Ready to see Tasmania’s wild winter side? Hire your car with YesDrive and take the road less travelled—safely.
