Located at the southern end of Tasmania’s world famous Overland Track, this area is known for its spectacular mountain ranges, alpine tarns and trees.
The Labyrinth. Isolated mountain tarns can be found dotted throughout the landscape.
Why visit
Located near Lake St Clair in Tasmania, the Labyrinth presents a glimpse into an ancient world that offers a range of photographic possibilities unique to this remote area of wilderness. A trip to Labyrinth will have you trekking through towering stands of old growth forest, embracing the reality of backcountry camping and even testing your climbing skills in its mountains.
The Acropolis. Rewarding views and a change of perspective can be found on top of the nearby mountains.
When to go
Although you can access the Labyrinth all year round, keep in mind that this is a self-supported trek which requires all your gear to be carried in and out. The somewhat unpredictable weather will play a key role in your decision about when to visit.
Summer’s long days allow plenty of daylight to explore the area. That also means that trekkers have the opportunity to see more features over fewer days. The warmer months are also the best time to explore the mountain tops as there is less rain to complicate the climbing experience.
Autumn provides photographers with different opportunities in the Labyrinth. Nothofagus gunnii, otherwise known as ‘fagus’, is Australia’s only true alpine bush which changes its colouring before losing its leaves for winter.
Photographers travel from faraway places to capture Tasmanian alpine scenes with these deciduous bushes in full seasonal change. And the Labyrinth is no exception as its mountain sides turn shades of yellows and reds.
Winter can get very cold and unpredictable high up on this plateau. Studying the weather is crucial if you want to optimise your time and avoid the disappointment of heavy clouds and rain. Expect, and be prepared for extreme, expedition-style trekking if the weather turns.
This season also adds drama to the landscape with snow-laden trees and frozen tarns. Early morning landscapes come to life with glittering ice crystals hanging on the region’s ancient pencil pines.
Spring brings the rain as the season changes, adding another dynamic to the landscape as mountain streams and newly formed waterfalls provide eye-catching points of interest.
Lake Helios. Passing showers help clear the air, revealing the landscape beyond.
Getting there
Visiting Tasmania is not difficult. Regular flights depart from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane and fly direct to Hobart and Launceston. Direct flights to Hobart also leave from the Gold Coast, Adelaide and Perth.
Many visitors travel to Tasmania from Melbourne by sea on the Spirit of Tasmania. This has the added benefit of letting you bring your own car. After landing in Tasmania, you’ll need to make your way to the trail head.
The quickest way to access the Labyrinth is by starting the trek from the southern end of the overland trail at Lake St Clair. Driving to Lake St Clair is the best option and provides a chance to stop and investigate the diverse photographic opportunities along the way.
If you’re unable to drive, some wilderness trekking companies offer shuttle bus transfers to Lake St Clair from different parts of the state. Lake St Clair is reasonably remote, so make sure you research these transfers well before visiting.
Once at Lake St Clair you will find the visitor’s centre for Parks and Wildlife offers a restaurant and some accommodation options.
Getting around
From Lake St Clair you will need to decide the best option for crossing the Lake. Some trekkers choose to book a passage on the local ferry to the Narcissus jetty on the other side of the lake. This can be booked both directions.
Travellers who choose to embark on this trip will gain a different perspective of the wilderness they are about to journey into as they cross the lake.
The second option, which adds several hours to the trip, is to trek around the 19-kilometre trail to Narcissus Point. From Narcissus Point the trek takes you into Pine Valley along a very well-formed track.
The trail is clearly marked all the way to Pine Valley and once there, you will find a well-positioned hut which is a great place to rest or spend the night. The Pine Valley hut sits amongst some ancient old growth forest including Huon Pines, King Billy Pines and Pandanis (Richea pandanifolia), all of which offer excellent photographic potential.
Ancient Pandanis and King Billy Pines are plentiful in Pine Valley.
Not far from here lies Cephissus Falls which catches many a photographer’s eye as it cascades its way into the stream that passes through Pine Valley. From Pine Valley the trek ascends to the plateau on which the Labyrinth is located. The trail becomes quite steep and it will take trekkers at least one to two hours to reach the top – depending on fitness levels, pack weight and time spent exploring photo opportunities along the way. Keep in mind that it can snow all year round in this wilderness. Snow can cause the track to disappear, so being prepared is imperative.
Some people may choose to investigate the Labyrinth as a day walk only, basing themselves at Pine Valley. Photographers who choose to camp high on the plateau usually camp alongside Lake Elysia. This is a great spot to take in the mountain views, explore other areas of interest and have a reliable source of water. Be mindful that Tasmania has a ‘leave no trace’ policy which requires hikers to carry out all their own rubbish – helping protect this fragile wilderness.
Pool of Memories. Early morning fog adds movement to the landscape.
What gear to take
How much weight you are willing to carry will govern what camera gear to take. The Labyrinth can be photographed well with most lens ranges. A medium focal range between 35-50mm is excellent for general landscapes. Long range zooms are a great choice for capturing distant mountain peaks.
Macro photography will reveal the landscape’s finer details, including fungi and delicate flowers when in bloom. Tripods are great for keeping the camera steady but opt for a lightweight travel model. You should also allow for extra batteries if travelling during cold seasons.
The time of year will determine what other gear to include in your pack. A good layering system for clothing will ensure that you stay cool in summer but warm at night or if the weather turns cold. Exposure is a huge risk in mountain areas, so research thoroughly what gear is recommended for the time of year you plan to visit.
Camping within the Labyrinth requires a pack tent, a four seasons sleeping bag and your cooking gear. Even in summer, it pays to be prepared for cold weather.
Summer brings mosquitoes and March flies which can be avoided by covering up, especially in the evening. A face buff works well for this and offers protection from the sun and wind too.
To navigate your route safely, a good topographical map, compass and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) are essential items. EPIRBs can be rented from Service Tasmania stores and Parks and Wildlife and should be booked prior to departure.
Gear check-lists can be found through Parks and Wildlife. Ensure all walks are registered on departure and tell others where you will be going and when you expect to return.
Article and images by Gerard Horsman
Excerpt from Photo Review Issue 90