Mt Field National Park is about 75 km and just over one hour's drive northwest of Hobart, via New Norfolk. The oldest and one of the most scenic Nartional Parks in Tasmania, it is well worth a look. Obviously the best time to visit the park is during the warmer months from Spring to Autumn, but it can get really cold (even in the middle of summer) up in the alpine area. If you plan to embark on any of the large variety of walks, you really need to be prepared for any weather conditions that may include snow up in the alpine area.
During the Winter months, a small club snow ski field is operated by the Southern Tasmanian Ski Association up on Mount Mawson at an altitude of about 1250m. The area is open to the general public for downhill, cross-country skiing and snow boarding. It has three rope tows operating from a location above the Lake Dobson Car park and Ski patrollers are on duty when the tows are operating. The Lake Dobson carpark is up a further 16km of winding gravel road. When it snows, vehicles may need chains. At times, the road may be closed during heavy falls. For information on road conditions, phone (03) 6288 1319. (+61-3-62881319 from outside Australia).
