Surge in interest for popular Oz trek

Tasmania's popular Overland Track has experienced a surge in interest with bushwalkers rushing to book out the peak summer season within three weeks of passes going on sale.

State Parks Minister Matthew Groom on Thursday reported a "massive increase in interest in walking the iconic track next season" and warned the window from December 26 to January 6 is already fully booked.

Usually completed in five or six days, the 65km trek - which is known as one of Australia's favourites - twists through temperate rain forest and crosses wild rivers as it stretches from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair.