It’s only a three hour drive from Launceston to the trailhead, but step out of the vehicle and begin the walk  in to the natural fortress that is the Walls of Jerusalem and very soon  it seems like you are in another world.

Only accessible by foot, the Walls of Jerusalem is Tasmania’s only true alpine National Park. Despite being right next door to the Cradle Mountain National Park, the Walls, as it is often referred to, sees much fewer visitors. We’re talking a few thousand visitors each season in the Walls compared to few hundred thousand that visit Cradle Mountain. For this reason alone those seeking a real wilderness experience know that they will find what they were looking for in the Walls of Jerusalem.

Before you even set foot in the Walls, the biblical themed names of the peaks and crags start to play with your imagination in a magical way. Climb up to Solomon’s Throne and gain spectacular views across to the Overland Track, ascend Mt. Jerusalem for views across a once ice strewn landscape that has flattened mountains and created mosaics of a thousand lakes. You can also admire Tasmania’s 10th highest mountain, King David's Peak, pass through Herod’s Gate, stop to ponder at the tranquil Pool of Bethesda or hike to the remote reaches to areas known as Golden Gate and Zion Vale. The names evoke a revered connection to an acient splendour, and that is exactly what walkers feel amongst this landscape.

Most of the Walls of Jerusalem is National Park is at an altitude over 1000m in the Central Plateau. With this height comes a change in scenery, a sublime alpine landscape that was covered by an ice sheet at least 100 metres thick in the last ice age. Expect to see alpine herb field, highland lakes, glacial moraines and always be prepared for the chance of extreme changes in weather.  Heavy rain, hail, snow or harsh sun can occur in any month of the year.

Given its remote setting walkers hoping to properly explore the park need to be prepared to carry full packs filled with their supplies for the trip, such as food, fuel, appropriate clothing and tents. For an introduction to the Walls, ‘base camp’ opportunities exist where walkers can just head out for the day with a small daypack, returning to your gear and the creature comforts of their camp each evening.

Base camp walks can take advantage of the Wild Dog camping site, conveniently located in the shadow of King David’s peak. Like so many Tasmanian parks these camp sites are designed to protect the environment and make your stay more comfortable. The camp is equipped with raised tent platforms, a composting toilet and an outdoor communal dining/kitchen.

The ideal time for walking in the Walls of Jerusalem is from October to May although hardier souls may consider grabbing some snowshoes and heading out for a winter walk during August and September.

If you’re heading to Tasmania and wanting to enjoy a real wilderness experience, consider the Walls of Jerusalem.

Experience it!

Walls of Jerusalem Circuit - 6 day full pack guided bushwalking adventure The Walls of Jerusalem Experience - 4 day guided bushwalk in the Walls Of Jerusalem Walls of Jerusalem Self Guided Experience - A self guided series of day walks in Tasmania's remote World Heritage alpine wilderness over 3 days Walls of Jerusalem Winter Experience - Over 4 days, enjoy a series of spectacular day walks exploring the alpine wilderness of the Walls of Jerusalem by foot and snowshoe during winter