The Walls of Jerusalem Info

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The Walls of Jerusalem National Park is not as popular a destination when compared to its neighbour, The Cradle Mountain National Park.

But that doesn't mean that it is not as good.

It is at a higher altitude, for a start. I suspect it is more to do with it is not as easy to get to and you need to be fully prepared.

What I mean by this is the only way to get there is by car or a hire vehicle as no public transport goes anywhere near it. There are other ways in but the quickest way is via Mole Creek to the car park near Fish River. People such as Maxwells, out of Wilmot, will provide a bus and driver from Devonport or Launceston.

It takes about three to four hours to walk in, depending on your final destination. A great place for a weekend walk, if you are from the northern part of Tasmania. In fact many do it as a day walk as the track in is more like a four lane super highway these days.

But don't be fooled. You can get snow, rain, and sunshine, all in one day and at any time of the year. It is a hostile environment in bad weather and hypothermia is your biggest threat.

There are two huts in the area, at Jaffa Vale and on the track up from the car park. They are there more for historical interest. The Parks and Wildlife Service discourage the use of the huts. Therefore, you need to take a good quality, preferably four season tent, with you.

It is an alpine area and no campfires are allowed - fuel stoves only.

The only recommended campsite it at the entrance to the walls. Toilets and camping platforms have been set up.

Extensive track work has been carried out and a great track exists up onto The West Wall, from Damascus Gate. The scree slope has been closed.

But do not get into a false sense of security. You need to know how to read a map and navigate; particularly around the Central Plateau Conservation Area. White outs are not uncommon, either from cloud or snow.

John Chapman's Cradle Mountain National Park book has a good section on this area. I have also written a story about a trip to the area, go here.

The Walls is a relatively compact area but there is plenty to keep you interested for a few days.

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