Mount Ossa is the highest mountain in Tasmania, at 1614 metres. It lies in the heart of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The entire mountain is composed of Jurassic dolerite and the peak is named after Mount Ossa in Greece, which features in Greek mythology. Many other peaks in Tasmania have names derived from the legends and tales of ancient Greece.
The peak is fairly remote from the nearest road, with more than a day's walk for most parties but the ascent involves no rock climbing and there is a well-marked track to the summit. Conditions can be very severe in winter, with powerful winds and freezing temperatures.
The lower slopes are bushy but towards the summit the rocks are mostly bare. The walk to the summit from Pelion Gap during summer usually features an array of beautiful wild flowers common in the area.
