Launceston to Ronny Creek itinerary

[Joel1982]

Just planning for the OLT early next year and want some insight from those who have done it before on how to get from the airport in Launceston to the start of the track at Ronny Creek.

I would expect to fly into Launceston around 10am and be at the start of the track the next day as early as possible.

I might be bringing some friends along or might be solo. Either way, I'm planning for solo so I'm ready for that.

On to the questions:

Do you stay in Launceston or at Cradle Mountain or somewhere in between? Suggestions for cheap and easy accommodation for the night?

Where do you get supplies from? Shellite, some food, water, last minute minor gear? For those who come from interstate, are you prevented from bringing anything on the plane aside from fuel?

How do you travel between? TassieLink? Shuttles? Again, looking for cheap but still need to get there within my timeframe. I realise that some people organise ride shares through this forum and I will send the call out when the time comes, but I want to be prepared in case people are put off by my body odour

How much time should I allow for processing at the visitors centre?

Thanks in advance!

[Son of a Beach]

For two of your questions...

You cannot bring any fresh food into Tasmania.

The following gear shops in Launceston are all very close to the city centre (roughly in order of my personal preference):

• Allgoods
• Mountain Designs
• Paddy Palin
• Macpac
• Kathmandu

[Mark F]

If possible stay at Cradle rather than in Launceston as you can pick up your track pass after about 3 or 4pm on the day before departure which frees you up to start nice and early the next morning. The extra time on the track after an early start can be put to far better use than time hanging around Launceston.

My experience was that it took about 20 minutes after arrival at the visitors centre to have a look around and get your pass. It may be a bit longer in the morning as other walkers and tourists descend.

[Geevesy]

If possible stay at Cradle rather than in Launceston as you can pick up your track pass after about 3 or 4pm on the day before departure which frees you up to start nice and early the next morning.

I recommend a G&T at the lodge

[johnk1]

Hi Joel,

If you are planning to stay in Launceston, Son of a Beach is right.

Allgoods has everything you need and is the best in my opinion.

Outdoor Tasmania are fantastic when it comes to travel arrangements. You can book with them and they will aim to get as many people as possible to fill their bus.

All the best.

John

[Joel1982]

Thanks everybody. Outdoor Tasmania does look pretty good. They stop in Deloraine for food...what's there?