Best Day Trips From Launceston for Your Next Adventure

Launceston in itself is a great city, with plenty of top-class restaurants to enjoy and iconic landmarks to visit, from Cataract Gorge to the town’s resident monkeys. But one of Launceston’s major draw cards is its proximity to the best of what northern Tasmania has to offer.

Given Tassie is a small state, some of the best destinations are doable as day trips from Launceston. From the stunning wilderness of Cradle Mountain, the world-famous Tamar Valley wine route, quirky Queenstown and the beautiful Bay of Fires, the only challenge you’ll face is choosing which Launceston day trip to tackle.

Read on for the best day trips from Launceston, then buckle up and enjoy your adventure.

West: Lake Burbury & The Lyell Highway

A Western Wilds road trip from Launceston is an unforgettable journey into Tasmania’s untamed beauty. As you head west, the landscape transforms—lush rainforests give way to rugged mountains and sweeping plains. Following the Lyell Highway, you’ll uncover convict history, abandoned mining towns, and adventure at every turn, whether it's hiking, mountain biking, or rafting.

Along the way, stop by Lake Burbury for tranquil waterside views before arriving in Queenstown. This scenic drive, just 3.5 hours (266.5km) from Launceston, is a must for those seeking a true wilderness escape.

West: Queenstown

Just 90 minutes southwest of Cradle Mountain lies Queenstown, a town that's experienced a vibrant cultural revival. Once a thriving mining hub in the 1800s, it’s now a creative haven brimming with galleries and street art. Don’t miss "The Gravel," Australia’s most infamous sports ground, made entirely of gravel, not grass. The surrounding hills, known as the “moonscape,” with their pink-gold, rocky terrain, are iconic. You’ll snap endless photos, but nothing quite captures the otherworldly beauty of this fascinating place.

West: Lake St Clair-Cradle Mountain National Park

The incomparable Cradle Mountain is a two-hour drive west of Launceston, so pack your hiking boots and hit the road early. Head to the Cradle Mountain Visitors Centre for shuttle buses to Dove Lake, and from there the area is yours to explore.

The Park’s most famous walk, the Overland Track, may take six days to complete but if you only have a day there are smaller strolls to tackle. In fact, four of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks are at Cradle Mountain: Crater Summit (two hours, 5.7km circuit), Dove Lake (two to three hours, 6km circuit) and Enchanted Walk (20 minutes, 1.1km circuit) are perfect for less experienced walkers, while the Cradle Summit (eight hours, 12.8km return) is tougher, but comes with incredible views as a reward.

Sitchu Tip: Remember to organise your National Parks Pass beforehand. 

North-West: Stanley

The charming town of Stanley, about 2.5 hours from Launceston, is well worth the scenic drive. Along the way, stop for a coffee or leg stretch in Devonport, Penguin, or Burnie.

Once in Stanley, head straight to The Nut, the town’s iconic flat-topped outcrop. Hike the steep 20-minute trail to the top or opt for the chairlift to enjoy sweeping views with ease. After completing the Nut Walk, one of Tasmania’s Great Short Walks, relax with a picnic or a pub lunch before exploring Stanley’s quaint streets.

North-East: Derby

Derby, a former tin-mining town turned world-famous mountain biking destination, is one of the most perfect day trips from Launceston, just 90 minutes away. You can easily fit in a thrilling ride on one of the many trails, with bike rentals and tours available along the main street.

Afterward, unwind in a floating wood-fired sauna on Lake Derby, cooling off with a plunge straight into the water. For another unique stop, drive 20 minutes to Little Blue Lake, where the striking turquoise waters are a must-see.

North-East: Bay of Fires

Just over an hour east of Derby lies the stunning Bay of Fires, a must-see on day trips from Launceston. Known for its crystal-clear waters and striking orange lichen-covered boulders, this iconic Tasmanian region can easily be explored in a day. Whether you approach from the north or south (both routes take about 2.5 hours), you can beach-hop through coastal gems like St Helens, Beaumaris, Scamander, and Binalong Bay. Along the way, enjoy scenic views, swimming spots, and plenty of options for a bite to eat. Oysters, anyone? 

East: Ben Lomond National Park

No matter the season, Ben Lomond National Park makes for an easy and rewarding day trip from Launceston, just under an hour’s drive east. This alpine haven offers breathtaking views and mountain serenity year-round, but it truly shines from June to September as a hub for snow sports. Skiers, snowboarders, and tobogganers flock here for its slopes and après-ski village. In warmer months, swap snow for wildflowers on walking trails like the Alpine Village to Little Hell track, or drive up Jacob’s Ladder—a winding road with spectacular scenery.

East: Coles Bay & Mt Amos

Coles Bay is a breathtaking destination and one of the best day trips from Launceston, celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Nestled along Tasmania’s eastern coast, it offers spectacular views of Freycinet National Park and the crystal-clear waters of Great Oyster Bay.

Visitors are drawn to its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and captivating landscapes, which invite outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. The local gourmet food and wine scene, featuring fresh seafood and seasonal produce, adds to its charm, creating an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

The allure of Coles Bay is further enhanced by its proximity to the iconic Hazards Range, home to renowned Mt. Amos, where exhilarating hikes reward adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning wilderness and the astonishing azure waters below.

North: Wine Trail

The Tamar Valley wine trail is one of the most popular day trips from Launceston, and there’s several routes you can take to enjoy the best local wines, ciders and food that the area has to offer. If you’ve only got a day and want to tick off some big hitters, drive up the west side of the Tamar River towards Rowella in the north. This route passes Velo Wines (and excellent on-site restaurant Timbre), Ninth Island, Tamar Ridge Wines, Stoney Rise Vineyard, Marions Vineyard, Iron Pot Bay Vineyard and Holm Oak – a mix of well-known wineries and charming boutique offerings. 

Sitchu Tip: A heads up if you’re feeling spontaneous - some of these vineyards require bookings for tastings, so you might need to jump online before you hit the road.

South: Heritage Highway

National Highway 1, which runs from Hobart to Launceston, is also known as the Heritage Highway due to the wonderfully historic towns it passes through just south of Launceston. This is a great Launceston day trip, whether you’re coming from Hobart or heading home that way.

You’ll find a new place to stop every 40 minutes or so, and the quaint little towns lined with 1800s sandstone buildings will make you feel like you’re in England, not Down Under. Highlights include Oatlands, Ross, Campbell Town and Longford – pull over to enjoy local bakeries, antique stores, tiny museums, sprawling estates, convict landmarks and historic bridges.

Ready to the hit the road to explore one of the many enchanting day trips from Launceston? You'll also love our guide to the most beautiful waterfalls and national parks around Tassie. Pull on those hiking boots and get exploring!