Australia — Launceston
The Walls of Jerusalem Circuit is a demanding 26km Tasmanian highland trek, offering a remote wilderness immersion over 3-4 days. Traverse jagged dolerite peaks and ancient pencil pine forests, encountering pristine alpine lakes and dramatic geological formations. This rugged route requires strong fitness and navigation skills for an unparalleled, isolated adventure.
Distance: 26.0 km
Elevation Gain: 800 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 3-4 days
The Walls of Jerusalem Circuit is a challenging multi-day walk in Tasmania's Central Highlands, renowned for its dramatic alpine scenery, unique geological formations, and remote wilderness experience. This circuit takes you through a landscape of jagged dolerite peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and ancient pencil pine forests, offering a true immersion into Tasmania's wild heart. It's a journey that demands good fitness and navigation skills, rewarding those who undertake it with unparalleled solitude and breathtaking vistas. Unlike more developed tracks, the Walls of Jerusalem offers a raw, untamed adventure, where the landscape itself is the primary attraction.
The Walls of Jerusalem Circuit is a spectacular trek through a high alpine plateau, characterised by its distinctive dolerite spires and walls that give the area its name. The circuit is not a formally marked track in the same vein as some of Tasmania's more popular walks; instead, it relies on cairns, poles, and route-finding skills, particularly in the higher sections. The terrain is rugged, featuring rocky scrambles, boulder fields, and sections of boggy ground, especially after rain. The landscape is starkly beautiful, with vast open plains dotted with tarns, interspersed with dramatic rock formations and ancient, gnarled pencil pines that have survived centuries of harsh alpine conditions.
The circuit typically starts from the Lake Rowallan car park, leading walkers into the heart of the Walls. The route ascends gradually, offering increasingly impressive views as you gain elevation. Key landmarks include the distinctive "Walls" themselves, the summit of Mount Jerusalem, and the numerous alpine lakes that dot the plateau. The remoteness of the area means that encounters with other walkers are infrequent, providing a profound sense of solitude and connection with nature. The weather in the Central Highlands is notoriously unpredictable, with conditions capable of changing from sunny and warm to cold, wet, and windy within a matter of hours, even in summer. This necessitates careful preparation and a flexible attitude.
The circuit offers a true wilderness experience, far removed from the comforts of civilisation. It's a place where the raw power of nature is evident, from the sculpted rock formations to the resilient alpine flora. The challenge of navigating and the physical demands of the terrain are balanced by the immense beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. For those seeking an authentic alpine adventure in Tasmania, the Walls of Jerusalem Circuit is an unforgettable destination.
The Central Highlands of Tasmania have a long and complex history, shaped by both natural forces and human activity. For millennia, Aboriginal Tasmanians, particularly the Paredarerme people, traversed these highlands, utilising the rich resources of the alpine environment for hunting and gathering. Evidence of their presence, such as stone artefacts and campsites, can be found throughout the region, attesting to a deep and enduring connection with this land.
European exploration and settlement in the Central Highlands began in earnest in the 19th century, driven by the pursuit of pastoralism and mining. The rugged terrain and harsh climate presented significant challenges, but hardy settlers gradually established sheep stations and explored the vast expanses. The area's unique geological features, including the dolerite formations of the Walls of Jerusalem, captured the imagination of early surveyors and naturalists.
The concept of preserving these unique landscapes for future generations gained momentum in the early 20th century. The Walls of Jerusalem National Park was established in 1974, recognising the exceptional natural values of the area, including its distinctive geological formations, rare alpine flora, and significant Aboriginal heritage. The park is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, acknowledging its outstanding universal value.
The development of walking tracks in the Walls of Jerusalem has been a gradual process, often driven by the efforts of bushwalking clubs and individuals rather than formal government initiatives. The circuit, as it is known today, has evolved through a combination of established routes and informal paths, reflecting the area's wild and untamed character. The emphasis has always been on maintaining a low-impact, wilderness experience, with minimal infrastructure to preserve the natural integrity of the landscape.
The best time to tackle the Walls of Jerusalem Circuit is during the Tasmanian summer, from December to February. During these months, the weather is generally at its most favourable, with longer daylight hours and a higher probability of clear skies and milder temperatures. This period offers the best conditions for navigation and reduces the risk of encountering snow and ice on the higher passes.
Summer in the Central Highlands, however, is still subject to rapid and dramatic weather changes. Even on a sunny day, temperatures can drop significantly, and strong winds can develop quickly. Snowfall is possible at any time of year, particularly at higher elevations, and can occur even in mid-summer. It is crucial to be prepared for all conditions, including rain, wind, and cold, regardless of the season.
The shoulder seasons, spring (October-November) and autumn (March-April), can offer beautiful colours and fewer crowds. However, these periods also bring a greater risk of snow, ice, and unpredictable weather. Spring can see lingering snowmelt, making some sections boggy and challenging. Autumn brings crisp air and stunning foliage, but daylight hours are shorter, and the temperature can plummet rapidly.
Winter (May to September) transforms the Walls of Jerusalem into a formidable alpine environment. Snowfall is common, and the track can be completely obscured. The area becomes suitable only for experienced winter mountaineers with appropriate equipment and navigation skills. For most walkers, winter is not a viable season for this circuit.
Regardless of the season, always check the weather forecast immediately before your trip and be prepared to alter your plans if conditions are unfavourable. The remoteness and challenging terrain mean that safety is paramount.
Day 1: Lake Rowallan to Dixons Kingdom Hut
Day 2: Dixons Kingdom Hut to Lake Solitude (or similar campsite) via Mount Jerusalem
Day 3: Lake Solitude to Lake Rowallan
Important Notes:
The Walls of Jerusalem Circuit is a challenging, remote walk that requires thorough preparation. Before embarking on this journey, ensure you have a high level of physical fitness, as the terrain is rugged and involves significant elevation changes. Familiarise yourself with map reading and navigation techniques, as the track is not always clearly marked and can be difficult to follow in poor visibility. Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time, and carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergencies.
The closest major town with comprehensive services is Launceston, which is approximately a two-hour drive from the trailhead at Lake Rowallan. Launceston offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to hotels, as well as supermarkets for stocking up on supplies, outdoor gear shops, and medical facilities. It is advisable to spend at least one night in Launceston before heading to the trailhead to finalise preparations and ensure you have all necessary gear and food.
The Walls of Jerusalem Circuit does not have formal, bookable huts like some of Tasmania's more developed tracks. Instead, basic shelters and designated camping areas are available. Walkers are expected to be self-sufficient and carry their own camping gear.
Shelters:
Camping:
Booking Requirements: No bookings are required for the shelters or camping on the Walls of Jerusalem Circuit. However, a Parks Pass is mandatory for entry into the national park.
Facilities Provided: Basic shelter at Dixons Kingdom Hut. No other facilities are provided on the track.
What's NOT Provided: All food, cooking equipment, water treatment, sleeping gear, toilets, rubbish disposal, and any form of electricity or charging facilities.
Seasonal Availability: The shelters and camping areas are accessible year-round, but conditions vary significantly with the seasons. Summer offers the most favourable conditions.
Costs: No direct costs for accommodation, but a Parks Pass is required.
A Parks Pass is required for entry into the Walls of Jerusalem National Park. This pass covers your vehicle and all occupants for the duration of your visit. Passes can be purchased online in advance from the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website or from designated service centres.
Parks Pass Information:
It is strongly recommended to purchase your Parks Pass online before you travel to the trailhead to avoid any delays or disappointment. Ensure you have a copy of your pass with you during your walk.
No bookings are required for the track itself or for camping. The Walls of Jerusalem is a wilderness area, and access is generally open to all, provided you have the necessary pass and are prepared for the conditions. However, due to the challenging nature of the walk and the potential for rapidly changing weather, it is crucial to be well-prepared and to inform someone of your plans.
Important Considerations:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Walls Of Jerusalem Circuit (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Walls Of Jerusalem Circuit, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
While the Walls of Jerusalem Circuit is a significant undertaking, the surrounding Central Highlands and nearby national parks offer a wealth of other activities for those looking to extend their stay or explore further:
Pre-Trip Checks:
Navigation:
Weather Hazards:
Other Hazards:
Emergency:
Mount Jerusalem Summit: The highest point on the circuit at 1,459 metres. A worthwhile detour from the main track, offering spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape, including the Walls of Jerusalem, numerous lakes, and distant mountain ranges. The ascent is rocky but generally straightforward for experienced walkers.
The Walls of Jerusalem: The namesake geological formations are a series of dramatic dolerite spires and cliffs that create a unique and imposing landscape. Exploring the base of these formations provides a sense of the raw power of nature and the forces that shaped this region.
Alpine Lakes: The circuit passes by or near several beautiful alpine lakes, such as Lake Solitude and Lake Myrtle. These offer opportunities for photography, quiet contemplation, and a refreshing dip on a warm day (though the water is bracingly cold!).
Pencil Pines: Ancient and gnarled pencil pines (Athrotaxis cupressoides) are a distinctive feature of the Walls of Jerusalem. These slow-growing conifers have survived centuries of harsh alpine conditions, their twisted forms a testament to resilience. They are particularly striking in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Dixons Kingdom Hut: While a functional shelter, the hut itself is a point of interest, representing a basic human presence in a wild landscape. It's a good place to pause, rest, and appreciate the remoteness of the location.
The Walls of Jerusalem National Park is a fragile alpine environment that requires the utmost care and respect from all visitors. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is not just a guideline; it is essential for preserving the integrity of this unique wilderness for future generations.
Your responsibilities include:
By following these principles, you help ensure that the Walls of Jerusalem remains a pristine and wild place for all to enjoy.
