Exploring Tasmania's national parks is a must for any visitor seeking breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. However, to access these natural wonders, a valid parks pass is required. This guide will help you understand the different types of passes available, ensuring you choose the one that best fits your travel itinerary.

Why You Need a Parks Pass

A parks pass is essential for entry into all of Tasmania's national parks. The revenue generated from these passes supports the maintenance of walking tracks, visitor centers, and facilities across the state's protected areas. For more information, visit the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.

The Main Types of Passes

1. Daily Pass (24 Hours)

Best for: Short visits or single-day trips

Covers: All national parks except Cradle Mountain

Prices:

1. Vehicle (up to 8 people): $49.15
2. Person (by bus, bike, foot, or motorbike): $24.55

Note: Daily passes exclude Cradle Mountain. A separate payment is required for the shuttle bus.

2. Cradle Mountain Day Pass (Icon Pass)

Best for: Visiting Cradle Mountain

Includes: 24-hour shuttle bus ticket

Available at: Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre

Prices:

1. Adults: $30.70
2. Children (5–17): $12.30
3. Family: $73.75

3. Holiday Pass (2 Months)

Best for: Longer stays in Tasmania

Covers: All national parks (Cradle Mountain shuttle bus not included)

Prices:

1. Holiday Vehicle Pass: $98.35
2. Holiday Person Pass: $49.20

Note: Vehicle passes cover up to 8 people.

4. Annual & Two-Year Passes

Best for: Frequent visitors or Tasmanian residents

Covers: All national parks, up to two vehicles registered at the same address

Prices:

1. Annual All Parks Pass: $104.75
2. Two-Year All Parks Pass: $133.80

5. One-Park Annual Passes

Best for: Extended stays in one park

Covers: One nominated park for 12 months (excludes Cradle Mountain)

Price: $53.50

Cradle Mountain Shuttle Bus Fees

For those visiting Cradle Mountain, shuttle bus tickets are necessary:

1. 24-hour shuttle ticket included with Cradle Mountain Day Pass
2. 72-hour ticket: $15.50
3. Annual shuttle pass: $46.50

How to Choose the Right Pass

Here's a simple guide to help you decide:

1. Visiting one park for a few hours: Daily Pass
2. Visiting multiple parks over 1–7 days: Holiday Pass
3. Visiting Cradle Mountain only: Cradle Mountain Day Pass
4. Spending weeks exploring Tasmania: Holiday Pass (2 Months)
5. Living in Tasmania or visiting often: Annual or Two-Year Pass
6. Spending most time in one park: One-Park Annual Pass

Where to Buy Your Pass

Passes can be purchased online at passes.parks.tas.gov.au, at national park visitor centers, Service Tasmania centers, onboard the Spirit of Tasmania, and at most accredited visitor information centers.

Extra Notes for Travellers

1. Children under 5 are free.
2. Concession rates are available for eligible Australian concession card holders.
3. Additional fees may apply for activities such as cave tours, multi-day walks, and campgrounds.