Media release – Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS), 5 February 2025
Overland Track closed due to fire situation
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) has closed the Overland Track due to a fire about 5 km southwest of Pelion West at Canning Peak.
PWS Northwest Regional Manager, Nic Deka said the fire started as a result of dry lightning on Monday and is currently not contained.
“The fire grew significantly overnight and is now just 5 km southwest of the track,” Mr Deka said.
“Conditions are challenging and there is potential for the fire to impact the Overland Track within the next 24 to 48 hours.”
“A Watch and Act alert has been issued for the Windermere – Pine Forest Moor Area, and the Overland Track will be closed for the next three days.
“Walkers scheduled to depart today have been stopped, and those north of Windermere have been instructed to return to Cradle Valley. This decision affects approximately 100 walkers.”
“Significant smoke from the fire is present in the area between Waterfall Valley and Pelion, and anyone currently on the Overland Track is urged to follow instructions from track rangers.”
“We are actively working to contain the fire and plan to reopen the track in three days’ time if conditions allow.”
Anyone who has booked to undertake the walk during the track closure will be provided a full refund.”
“Walkers are urged to check the PWS website for up-to-date information and track closures.”
For more information, visit https://parks.tas.gov.au/
