Wednesday 28/02/2024 Lake Dobson Road – Mount Field East Carpark – Beatties Tarn – Lake Nicholls
Mount Field National Park, lutruwita / TASMANIA
Palawa Country
Participants: Stephen Davies (Photos), Sue Davies (Report)
We were pretty exhausted in the morning after a tough couple of days walking, so we started the day having morning tea with our friends Trish and Dave and having a look around the Mount Field Visitors Centre.
Max elevation: 1017 m
Total climbing: 252 m
Total descent: -234 m
Average speed: 2.72 km/h
Total time: 02:34:24
From there we decided a two-hour walk to Mount Nicholls might be the best option for the day. By the time we reached the trailhead it was already midday and quite warm but off we went.
Initially, there is a climb over rocky ground. What we noticed most was the unique vegetation, mosses, berries and wildflowers. It was a lovely natural garden.
We took the short side track to Beatties Tarn, named after an old white guy of course. This was a pretty spot and at this stage, a swim would have been nice but as it is in a water catchment we decided not to.
Back on the main trail, we headed to Lake Nicholls. The terrain became more rocky and some rock hopping was required. There was a gentle descent to reach the lake where there is a day shelter. After a quick lunch, we returned to the track and back to the car.
Lake Nicholls Hut
It was an enjoyable walk but we were perhaps a bit spoiled after the spectacular scenery of the last few days. We returned to camp for the afternoon where we made a fruitless attempt to spot platypus again.
Information on Parks Tasmania signage along the way
Walks from Mount Field East carpark
The Lake Nicholls track starts here. Follow this to a marked turnoff for Beatties Tarn, then further along the main track you will arrive at Lake Nicholls. The track continues to reach the edge of Windy Moor and on to Mount Field East. Times given are a guide only.
Mount Field East Circuit Moderate 10.4 kilometres 5 hours circuit
The walk passes picturesque lakes as it ascends through forest to an alpine heathland environment.
Upon returning to the junction from the Mount Field East summit, the track over Windy Moor is followed and then the historic Old Pack Track back Mount Field East track to this car park.
Parts of the track cross boulders, but the once muddy sections have been hardened with rock and timber.
Mount Field East Return Moderate 8.5 kilometres 4 hours return
As described above to Mount Field East then return the same way. On this route boulders are encountered above Lake Rayner and on the summit climb.
Beatties Tarn Moderate 2.5 kilometres 1 – 1½ hours return
Follow the Lake Nicholls Track until a marked junction is reached. A short distance along a side track with a few boulders brings you to a beautiful tarn. Beatties Tarn
Lake Nicholls Moderate 3.8 kilometres 2 hours return
The Lake Nicholls track is followed to this attractive lake, which is approached along a distinct glacial moraine. The track is not unduly rocky and involves no significant ascents.
The local landscape features, geology, scenic highlights, flora, fauna, indigenous history, white history and other walks in the area (Gemini)
The Beatties Tarn – Lake Nicholls walk within Mount Field National Park offers a scenic and accessible route suitable for walkers of moderate fitness levels.
Landscape Features and Geology
Underlying geology: The path traverses foothills composed of Precambrian quartzite, a hard and metamorphosed sandstone resistant to erosion. This geology contributes to the presence of rocky sections and some minor hillocks along the track.
Glacial influence: While not as dramatically sculpted as other areas of the park, evidence of glacial activity can be observed in the broader valley landscape surrounding the lakes.
Scenic Highlights
Beatties Tarn: This small, picturesque tarn provides a tranquil spot amidst the rainforest. Surrounded by vegetation, it offers a glimpse into the tarn ecosystem.
Lake Nicholls: Larger than Beatties Tarn, Lake Nicholls is a scenic lake nestled within the mountains. The surrounding vegetation and distant peaks contribute to the natural beauty.
Diverse flora: The track winds through a variety of plant communities, providing a visual treat.
Local Flora
The walk showcases a variety of plant life:
Rainforest vegetation: The initial section of the track passes through rainforest, dominated by myrtle (Nothofagus cunninghamii) and sassafras (Atherosperma moschatum). A diverse understorey of ferns, mosses, and liverworts flourishes in the moist environment.
Rocky outcrops: Exposed rocky sections support a different plant community, with shrubs adapted to drier and more exposed conditions. Wildflowers may be present seasonally, adding colour to the landscape.
Subalpine influences: At higher elevations, the vegetation thins, with some eucalypts (Eucalyptus spp.) potentially present, reflecting a transition towards subalpine communities.
Local Fauna
The diverse habitats offer opportunities to encounter a range of animals:
Birds: Species such as scrub robins (Drymodes olivacea) and grey fantails (Rhipidura albiscapa) may be seen flitting amongst the foliage. Less commonly seen but potentially present are pademelons (Thylogale spp.) and Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii).
Platypus: While sightings are less frequent in lakes compared to streams, platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) may be present in the water bodies.
Indigenous History
The palawa people are the traditional custodians of the land now encompassed by Mount Field National Park. Evidence suggests Aboriginal Tasmanians inhabited this region for thousands of years, utilising the diverse resources provided by the rainforests and alpine areas. Oral histories and artefacts may hold stories about their connection to Beatties Tarn and Lake Nicholls. Consultation with Tasmanian Aboriginal people is needed for a deeper understanding of their relationship with this walk.
White History
European exploration of the region began in the early 19th century. Logging activities likely impacted some areas of the park in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The dedication of Mount Field National Park in 1916 secured the region’s natural and scenic values for future generations. The development of the Beatties Tarn – Lake Nicholls walking track allows access to experience the beauty of the area while aiming to minimise environmental impact.
Other Nearby Walks
Mount Field National Park offers a variety of walking tracks catering to different interests and fitness levels:
Russell Falls Walk: A short and accessible track leading to the iconic Russell Falls.
Three Falls Track: A challenging circuit encompassing Horseshoe Falls, Lady Barron Falls, and several other waterfalls.
Ballroom Forest Walk: A short loop track showcasing the ancient Ballroom Forest with its towering trees and lush understorey.
Lake Dobson Track: A moderate walk offering scenic views of Lake Dobson and surrounding mountains.
The Beatties Tarn – Lake Nicholls walk provides a pleasant and accessible option for visitors to Mount Field National Park.
The combination of diverse flora, rocky outcrops, scenic lakes, and potential wildlife encounters makes this walk a worthwhile experience for those seeking a moderate bushwalking experience.
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