Wednesday 13/03/2024 Highland Lakes Road – Pine Lake Nature Trail – Pine Lake
lutruwita / TASMANIA
Palawa Country
Participants: Stephen Davies (Photos), Sue Davies (Report)
With a bit of spare time, we decided to do this short walk after completing the Liffey Falls trail. This is a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk through the alpine landscape to a perched lake. It is signposted with information about the landscape, vegetation and history. The ancient pencil pines were impressive along with the hardy alpine plants.
Max elevation: 1205 m
Total climbing: 8 m
Total descent: -8 m
Average speed: 3.42 km/h
Total time: 00:21:12
Pencil pines at Pine Lake
Information on Parks Tasmania signage along the way
A SPECIAL PLACE
Take time to experience a very special part of the Central Plateau, so special it is part of Tasmania’s Wilderness. World Heritage Tasmania. The walk also takes you through a number of different plant communities including bolster, or cushion plant communities, block streams, where plants are protected from the ravages of fire, and herbfields.
You will also see evidence of past ice ages and, depending on the weather, experience one of the harshest climates in Tasmania.
This easy walk is a gentle introduction to a rugged landscape, it only takes about 30 minutes (return) but it may take you back over 100 million years.
SUMMER COLOUR
Summer in the high country is spectacular. The short growing season means that plants need to flower and attract pollinators quickly. emergence of pollinators such as beetles, moths, flies and native bees. Others, such as the eyebright, have special stripes inside the flower to attract insects. These stripes look like eyelashes, giving the impression of bright eyes looking up at you.
Although the main flowering occurs in mid-summer, there is a sequence of flowering virtually throughout the whole of the summer free season. Some plants, such as the delicate flag iris and the yellow billy buttons, can flower as late as April just before the first snows of winter.
A STRUGGLE FOR SURVIVAL
Conditions on the Central Plateau are harsh. Snow and frost can occur at any time of the year and in spring the plateau is exposed to the full force of the Roaring Forties. The winds have both a drying and cooling effect so plants have developed ways to conserve moisture and survive the long, cold winters.
Many of these mechanisms can be seen as you look around. Many plants are small and compact, which means they are less likely to be damaged by wind, ice, storms or heavy snow. Some, like this cushion plant, form a densely packed cushion shape which acts as a heat bank and protects the individual plants and their roots from low temperatures. However, because of their slow growth they are very easily damaged and may take years to recover. This cushion plant is over 100 years old.
As you look around, you may notice that some plants, such as scoparia, have waxy leaves; others, such as pineapple grass, have hairy leaves. These features also help to reduce heat and moisture loss.
The local landscape features, geology, scenic highlights, flora, fauna, indigenous history, white history and other walks in the area (Gemini)
Pine Lake is a picturesque alpine lake situated within the Central Highlands of Tasmania. This highland region is renowned for its glacial lakes, mountainous terrain, and endemic flora and fauna.
Landscape Features and Geology
Glacial origins: Pine Lake is a cirque lake formed by glacial activity during the Pleistocene epoch. Cirques are bowl-shaped depressions carved by glaciers.
Altitude and aspect: The lake lies at an elevation of approximately 1,200 metres above sea level. The surrounding landscape is characterised by rolling hills and mountains.
Underlying geology: The bedrock underlying the area is likely composed of Paleozoic sedimentary rocks such as sandstones and mudstones.
Scenic Highlights
Alpine setting: Pine Lake offers a quintessential subalpine experience with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Ancient Pencil Pines: The lake is fringed by Pencil Pines (Athrotaxis selaginoides), a rare and ancient coniferous tree species endemic to Tasmania.
Boardwalk access: A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk winds its way through the alpine vegetation, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the lake and its surrounds.
Local Flora
The vegetation surrounding Pine Lake reflects the harsh alpine climate:
Alpine herbfields: Low-growing grasses, sedges, and cushion plants dominate the open areas near the lake shore.
Shrubs: Shrubs such as snow gum (Eucalyptus pauciflora) and mountain correa (Correa lawrenciana) may be present in sheltered locations.
Pencil Pines: The aforementioned Pencil Pines are a key feature of the landscape, adding to the scenic value and ecological significance of the area.
Local Fauna
The fauna of the Pine Lake area is limited by the cold temperatures and harsh conditions:
Birds: Birds of prey such as wedge-tailed eagles (Aquila audax) or smaller birds like pipits (Anthus spp.) may be sighted.
Mammals: Brush-tailed possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) or echidnas (Tachyglossus aculeatus) might inhabit the surrounding woodlands.
Insects: Alpine insects adapted to the cold climate are likely present, although they may not be readily visible.
Indigenous History
Information regarding Aboriginal Tasmanian interaction with Pine Lake is limited. The traditional custodians of the land are the palawa people. Evidence suggests Aboriginal Tasmanians frequented the Central Highlands for hunting and resource gathering. Further consultation with Tasmanian Aboriginal people is needed for a deeper understanding of their connection to this place.
White History
European exploration of the Tasmanian Central Highlands likely began in the early 19th century. Settlers used the area for grazing, and evidence of this past use might still be present in the landscape. Pine Lake itself became a popular destination for day trips due to its accessibility and scenic beauty. The construction of the wheelchair-accessible boardwalk further enhanced its appeal for visitors of all abilities.
Other Walks
The Central Highlands offer a range of walking tracks catering to different interests and fitness levels. Some options include:
Cradle Mountain – Overland Track: A multi-day hike through stunning alpine landscapes, including Cradle Mountain itself.
Walls of Jerusalem National Park: Hike through dramatic dolerite columns and experience breathtaking views.
Lake St Clair National Park: Explore glacial lakes and temperate rainforests.
Pine Lake provides an easily accessible and visually stunning introduction to Tasmania’s Central Highlands. The lake’s scenic beauty, unique flora, and historical significance make it a popular destination for visitors seeking an alpine experience.
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