When I arrived in Tasmania, I had just returned from a few weeks at home for Christmas and wasn’t feeling in peak physical shape, so I was a bit nervous about tackling some of the longer hikes. I decided it would be wise to test my fitness on a hike before heading into Cradle Mountain National Park. That’s when I discovered Mount Roland and its summit hike. This is a 16.6-kilometer return trail that’s challenging, with an elevation gain of 992 meters. It turned out to be quite the adventure, especially given the unpredictable weather in the area.

On the day I chose to hike, it was wet and cloudy, which meant much of the trail was flooded, making for a slippery journey. Despite this, the trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, with new wooden boardwalks installed as you reach the higher sections. The hike offers a mix of forest trails, rocky scrambles, and, on a clear day, breathtaking views from the summit. Unfortunately, when I reached the top, it was shrouded in clouds and extremely windy, so I couldn’t see much. Nonetheless, it was a good way to get my body moving again and to get used to the kind of trails I’d be encountering in Tasmania. Plus it's about the journey not just the destination.

Just be prepared for changing weather conditions and keep an eye out for wildlife, including the occasional snake. Overall, it’s a fantastic spot to test your hiking skills and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness.