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Hiking to the summit of Frenchmans Cap - Frenchmans Cap Trek, Australia
Hiking to the summit of Frenchmans Cap
Breathtaking views from the top of Frenchmans Cap - Frenchmans Cap Trek, Australia
Breathtaking views from the top of Frenchmans Cap  | Aran Price
Views from Frenchman's Cap - Frenchmans Cap Trek, Australia
Views from Frenchman's Cap  | Michele Eckersley
Hikers on Frenchman's Cap - Frenchmans Cap Trek, Australia
Hikers on Frenchman's Cap  | Sam Craddock
A section of the trail along the hike to Frenchmans Cap - Frenchmans Cap Trek, Australia
A section of the trail along the hike to Frenchmans Cap
View from Frenchmans Cap towering over Lake Tahune and Lake Vera - Frenchmans Cap Trek, Australia
View from Frenchmans Cap towering over Lake Tahune and Lake Vera  | Tourism Tasmania & Nicholas Tomlin
The stunning panoramic view from Frenchmans Cap - Frenchmans Cap Trek, Australia
The stunning panoramic view from Frenchmans Cap  | Tourism Tasmania & Nicholas Tomlin

Frenchmans Cap Trek

Trekking to one of Tasmania's most alluring and iconic peaks

Australia
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 15 reviews

5 Days from

$1970 USD

Trip Code: FFT
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Tent Supplement
$36 USD
Duration
  • 5 Days
Activities
  • 5 days trekking with a full pack
Accommodation
  • 4 nights camping
Meals
  • 4 Dinners
  • 5 Lunches
  • 4 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

19kg of CO2-e PP per day

(76kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Spectacular and challenging walking
  • Unsurpassed views of the entire World Heritage Wilderness
  • Endemic sub-alpine flora
  • Extraordinary side trips to high peaks
  • Discover the history and hard work behind this epic track
  • Summit the iconic quartzite peak of tuynti/Frenchmans Cap

Overview

Trekking to Tuynti/Frenchmans Cap is an unforgettable challenge, a journey through some of the most remote and spectacular landscapes in Tasmania’s World Heritage Wilderness. Rising 1446 metres above sea level in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, this gleaming white quartzite peak is an awe-inspiring sight, towering over the surrounding wilderness and offering one of the most breathtaking summit views in Australia. From the top, the vast expanse of Tasmania unfolds before you, with panoramic views stretching to the Arthur Range, Mt Ossa and Macquarie Harbour.

This 54km return trek takes you deep into wild and untouched terrain, crossing open button grass plains, weaving through lush rainforests, and tackling steep, rocky ascents. Along the way, you’ll experience the region’s unique biodiversity, from ancient plant life to endemic bird species, all thriving in this rugged and pristine environment.

Taking on such a remote and challenging trek is not to be underestimated, which is why joining a guided group provides the ultimate advantage. With expert leadership, logistical support, and a carefully planned itinerary, you can focus on the experience rather than the details. Our itinerary allows five days on the trail, increasing the likelihood of reaching the summit in the best possible conditions. Safety, knowledge, and camaraderie are at the core of this adventure, ensuring you can fully embrace the challenge while supported by experienced guides who know the track inside out.

For those who seek an immersive wilderness adventure and the satisfaction of summiting one of Tasmania’s most iconic peaks, this trek offers the perfect combination of physical challenge, remote beauty, and expert guidance.

Itinerary

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We pick you up early this morning in Launceston, from one of our two pick up locations. Our first pick up point is at 6:15am from the Grand Chancellor and our second pick up point is at 6:30am at the Penny Royal. We then travel 3 hours south-west to the start of the Frenchmans Cap Track. This scenic drive is the perfect opportunity for your guides to introduce the region to you as you watch the landscape change from the historic buildings of Launceston to the rugged wilderness of the Tasmanian Highlands. Reaching the trail head, we enjoy our packed lunch before we wave goodbye to the bus and start walking! We cross the Franklin River then climb gently through the tea tree forests of Mt Mullens. If the weather is clear we will be given our first stunning views of Frenchmans and the surrounding peaks. Tonight we camp by the picturesque Lake Vera, where your guides will whip up a hearty evening meal and brief you on the next exciting day. Walking distance: 16 km | Walking time: 6-7 hours. *You will need to arrive in Launceston the day before your trip, ensuring that you arrive in time to attend the 3:00pm pre-trip briefing.

Meals: L,D

From Lake Vera we head toward tonight’s camp at Lake Tahune, nestled below the summit of Frenchmans Cap. The track takes us steeply up through Barron Pass where unsurpassed views of Frenchmans can be enjoyed from a distance. The sight of the epic, quartzite peak rising up and out of the surrounding dense wilderness is breathtaking and gives even the most experienced bushwalker an invigorating jolt of excitement. We sidle Sharlands Peak and pass through the Artichoke Valley before descending into camp. Walking Distance: 6 km | Walking Time: 8 hours

Meals: B,L,D

Today we ascend the imposing summit of tuynti/Frenchmans Cap. The climb is challenging and immensely rewarding; an absolute highlight of Tasmanian bushwalking. The ascent is approximately 1.7 km in distance and takes roughly 2 hours. The views from the top are incomparable, taking in a vast expanse of the wild and rugged south-west. After time to completely absorb the scenery, we have the option of taking a track through the saddle and North Col and sidle past Lion Head to Lake Nancy where we can have a well deserved lunch while enjoying the views north-west towards Mt. Mary and the mighty Franklin River. In the afternoon we return to our comfortable camp at Lake Tahune and enjoy another hearty meal high up in the Tasmanian wilderness. Walking Distance: 3 km | Walking Time: 4-7 hours

Meals: B,L,D

This morning gives us the opportunity to summit Frenchman's Cap once more if inclement weather held us back yesterday. We then return on rough track through diverse forests and mountain passes to the stunning camp at Lake Vera. Our packs are feeling lighter today and we have a spring in our step that only a Tasmanian bushwalker truly understands; There's nothing like five days in the wilderness to clear your head and energise your soul! It is well worth returning to Lake Vera, a magical campsite nestled below the dominating forested heights of the White Needle and Philps Peak. Tonight your guides will prepare our last evening meal in the wilderness, and we enjoy our final night out under the stars. Walking Distance: 6 - 9 km | Walking Time: 3-5 hours

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast we pack up camp and return across the Loddon Plains to the trail head. This morning's walk enables us to take in the epic mountainous landscape we have explored over the last five days, and reflect upon all we have achieved. We clean our bushwalking gear at the wash down station – to prevent the spread of plant diseases – then board our awaiting bus. We drive back to Launceston, via the scenic Central Highlands and Great Lake, stopping for lunch along the way, reaching Launceston between approximately 5:30 to 6:30pm. Our two drop-off points in Launceston are the Grand Chancellor and the Penny Royal. After a hot shower and donning fresh clothes, you may like to meet up with your fellow bushwalking companions at one of Launceston's great eateries for a celebratory dinner. Walking distance 16 km | Walking time 6-7 hours

Meals: B,L

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

3 scheduled departures between 23 Nov 2026 and 15 Feb 2027.

  • Departs 23 Nov 2026 – ends 27 Nov 2026 (5 days)
  • Departs 11 Jan 2027 – ends 15 Jan 2027 (5 days)
  • Departs 15 Feb 2027 – ends 19 Feb 2027 (5 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 2 professional wilderness guides
  • 4 nights camping
  • 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners, snacks and hot drinks
  • Transport by private minibus
  • National Park fees
  • Tent, inflatable sleeping mat and gaiters
  • Group camping equipment including all cooking and eating equipment
  • Emergency communications and group first aid kit

Not included

  • Travel to and from Launceston
  • Accommodation prior to and after the trip
  • Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic beverages, car parking in Launceston etc
  • Travel insurance
  • Sleeping bag, back pack
  • Face masks and hand sanitiser
How Hard Is Tasmania's Frenchmans Cap Trek?
How Hard Is Tasmania's Frenchmans Cap Trek?
Frenchmans Cap: Flora & Fauna on the trail to the summit

Reviews (15)

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We were fortunate to have a small group that bonded & excellent guides. The trip to Frenchman’s Cap was the most enjoyable multi-day hike that I’ve experienced ( & I’ve done a few)!

Everything was so well organised. I felt very well supported.

Rebecca|Ulverstone, TAS
3 Mar 2026
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Fantastic scenery, supportive guides and an amazing adventure!

Robyn King|Tarragindi, QLD
17 Feb 2025
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Frenchman's Cap was an experience to remember ... such a stunning environment to explore with a great bunch of girlfriends. I won't lie, it was challenging but also so much fun all at the same time! We were spoilt with clear and sunny weather and I thoroughly enjoyed our 3.5 hours on top of Frenchman's Cap. Thanks TasEx and in particular our two guides Jesse and Stacey - your passion for the Tasmanian wilderness is infectious.

Britt Groom|Grange, QLD
21 Mar 2023
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Challenging hike but rewarded with blue cloudless skies at the top of Frenchman's Cap where we spent three hours soaking up the vista. Our guides Jessie & Stacks where brilliant

Camille Huxham|Yeerongpilly, QLD
21 Mar 2023
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I really enjoyed hiking Frenchmans Cap with TasEx! The scenery was stunning, guides were professional and friendly, and the trip was run very smoothly. One of the most enjoyable experiences I've had in a while, I'll be sure to return for more as I can't get seem to get enough of Tasmania!

Nishka Bhatia|Western Australia
10 Jan 2022
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Great hike! Met all expectations. Anyone looking for a little help on trail these are the guys to do it with. Professional, utterly safety conscious and great attitude with all participants regardless of previous experience or otherwise. Highly recommended!!

Steve Jago|Glenbrook, NSW
4 Jan 2022
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The guides, Will and Maddy, were excellent, making sure that everyone felt comfortable and had assistance where needed on some of the steepest parts. They were also put to the test on the first day when one of the group fell and injured himself, requiring helicopter evacuation. They coped professionally with the injured man and with the rest of the group. Many highlights, including reaching the top of Frenchmans Cap. But others were the exquisitely beautiful rainforest, the fungi, the sunrise views from the rise above Lake Tahune. The scenery, the geology... need I say more!

M. Ball|Euroa, VIC
31 May 2017
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The whole trip was amazing, guides fantastic, could not have been better every thing was great.

P. Smith|Brighton, South Australia
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My friend Peter and I recently completed your Frenchman's Cap Trek in the Franklin/Gordon wild rivers national park. It was a challenging but amazing experience getting to see first hand the many and varied aspects of the Tasmanian bush. We made the summit on a very clear day and was able to take in the wonderful views of the surrounding lakes and peaks for miles around. Our trip was topped off on the last night by Scott providing us with a bbq and cold beer (best ever). But you know all of that.......my reason for the email is to say a big thank you to our three guides.The support we received from Will, Brenton and Ash was exceptional.They were respectful of our ages, pleasant, encouraging and professional at all times. Nothing was too much trouble, whether it be helping us with our tents, notifying us when a cuppa was on, cooking our meals, ensuring our safety, giving advice, or simply having a chat. I was incredibly impressed with these young guys who displayed a maturity beyond their years. Thank you Tasmanian Expeditions.

T. Przibilla|Brighton, SA.

Responsible Travel

The cultural conversation at Standley Chasm will teach you more about Arrente country | Luke Tscharke
Our Reconciliation Action Plan
 
As an Australian-owned and operated organisation, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing custodianship of the land, waters and culture for over 60,000 years.
 
In April 2024, we launched our inaugural Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), formally endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. Our vision is to create cultural safety within the community, our organisation, and on all the lands we are privileged to share, through collaboration, meaningful engagement, and continuous learning while respecting the wisdom of Traditional Custodians.
 
For nearly four decades, we have worked with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to curate immersive adventure experiences across Australia. Every journey begins with a meaningful Acknowledgement of Country, and most of our Australian multi-day itineraries include cultural engagement with local Traditional Custodians.
 
Our Australian Walking Holidays, Tasmanian Expeditions, and Blue Mountain Adventure Company divisions hold Triple Certification from Ecotourism Australia, including the Respecting our Culture Certification, underscoring our dedication to cultural authenticity, responsible business practices, and acknowledging the profound spiritual connections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the land and water.
 
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Extra trip info

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No. We will not have access to power along the track. We suggest you bring the required number of rechargeable packs you require for your devices.

This trek commences with a COMPULSORY pre-departure briefing at 3pm on the day before departure. It is ESSENTIAL that you make your travel arrangements to enable you to attend this briefing and that you bring along all of the gear/clothing required for your expedition with you.

The terrain is rugged and remote. Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. You will walk through heathland, Eucalypt forest, rainforest, moorland, and exposed alpine plateaus. There will be some steep walking and scrambles on the ascent to the summit. With the wild weather of Tasmania there is a large chance you will encounter wet and muddy paths.

For your expedition you will need to carry all equipment in a full trekking backpack that is 75-90 litres in capacity. Depending on the quantity of personal gear and toiletries the average pack weight will be between 18-22 kg.

The Frenchman's Cap Trek is a moderate to challenging walk so you will need to have an excellent level of fitness. You will be carrying a full pack while trekking in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. Previous multi day hiking experience is highly recommended, as is previous experience on a full pack trek. If you have any questions about your suitability please give us a call and speak with one of our staff members. We are more than happy to discuss additional information about what you can expect.

Tasmania’s south west is renowned for its wild, unpredictable weather. The trip runs between December and March when we have the best chance for warmer temperatures, but you are likely to experience all sorts of weather on the Frenchman's Cap Trek. This region often experiences extreme and rapidly changing weather. You’ll likely to encounter wild winds, heavy rain and sunshine (often all in one single day). You will need to be prepared to walk in all weather conditions as winds, steady rain, and even snow in elevated areas, can occur at any time of year.

We suggest asking your pre/post tour accommodation about car parking or there are secure carparks in Launceston where you can pre-book a spot.

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