Plan your
Off Season

Winter in Tasmania is packed with wild, weird, warming and wonderful experiences.

Come down for the Off Season between 1 May–31 August in 2025. During these cooler months, the island’s Off Season offers are a wake-up call for the hibernating spirit – think bespoke picnics by the fire and hot-tub indulgence at your accommodation, limited-edition feasts and drink tours, starry night experiences and wellness workshops.

Sound good? Start booking your trip now. 

In Hobart and Launceston, average winter temperatures hover around 13°C or 14°C – but crisp blue skies are common (chilly in the shade, mild in the sun). Things get frostier in the mountains: Cradle Mountain tops out at around 8°C in winter. 

Perhaps surprisingly, Hobart is Australia’s second-driest capital city (after Adelaide), with an average June rainfall of 43mm. Rainy days are more likely in the west (hence all the rainforests), producing an earthy scent and moody atmosphere.

Occasionally – unforgettably – it snows at sea level in Tasmania. Locals scramble to throw snowballs before it all melts. But the mountains tell a different tale. Tasmania’s Central Highlands are blanketed white through much of winter. There’s often accessible snow at Cradle Mountain in the north west; at Ben Lomond, an hour from Launceston; and at Mount Field, 90min from Hobart. Even closer to Hobart, the 1271m kunanyi / Mount Wellington can be dappled white on winter days. 

You’ll find some of the best snow activities on Tasmania’s ski fields at Ben Lomond, and Mount Mawson in Mount Field National Park. Mount Mawson has towropes for beginners through to advanced skiers; Ben Lomond is more reliable, with snow-making machines, established runs and local snow gear hire.

The key to dressing for the Off Season is layers: be ready for anything, anytime. Melbourne may have four seasons in one day, but in winter in Tasmania, you can cram them all into one thrilling hour.  

The ubiquitous black puffer jacket – the 'Tassie tuxedo' – will no doubt find its way into your wardrobe. Other useful items to pack (and potentially quite chic, if you style them creatively) are gloves, beanies, scarves and thermals, but check the forecast each day before you smother yourself in garments. 

Heading for the high country? Check weather forecasts with the Bureau of Meteorology before you set out. TasALERT lists road closures and other warnings.  

• Keep your headlights on for max visibility.
• Leave at least a four-second gap between you and the car in front.
• Watch out for ice on the road. Slow down when you’re cornering – particularly early in the day.
• Ditch the wheels and take a shuttle bus to Cradle Mountain or kunanyi / Mount Wellington.
• Hire snow chains if you’re driving into Ben Lomond or Mount Field.
• Slow down and leave plenty of driving time to enjoy the ride.

Winter walks are a Tasmanian tradition: here’s how to walk safely and responsibly. Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service is your best bet for bushwalking advice. Check the weather forecast regularly and be ready for rapid changes – sunshine and snow can be minutes apart. Survey the scene in advance via webcams on Ben Lomond, Mount Mawson (at Mount Field) and kunanyi / Mount Wellington. 

• Warm layers and waterproof outerwear are essential (even in summer).
• Always stay on formed roads and walking tracks.
• Avoid cotton – once wet, it won't dry out in the winter air.
• Keep rest stops short and sweet, so you don't cool down.
• Boardwalks and boulders can get icy: watch your step.
• Consider hiking poles for extra stability (they might stop you busting your ankle).