Tasmania in spring is a bit of a lucky dip - some days feel like summer, others like winter. About four weeks ago, I embraced the unpredictability and took my one-year-old puppy on a hike to Snug Falls, one of the dog-friendly trails not too far from Nipaluna (Hobart).
After grabbing a hot mocha at my local café in Kingston, we hit the road. The drive to Snug Falls is short and sweet - just about 25 minutes from Kingston - with a small stretch of gravel road toward the end. The trail is well signed and easy to find, though a quick heads-up: you’ll need to cross a main road from the car park to the trailhead, so keep an eye out for local traffic.
The hike itself is a gentle 2-3 kms return walk, taking around 1 to 1½ hours depending on your pace and how many sniff-stops your pup insists on. We were lucky enough to have the entire track to ourselves, which made the experience even more special. The trail winds through beautiful forest, and while it was a bit muddy in parts (classic Tassie spring), it was absolutely doable - even for energetic young dogs. There’s even a bit of a puppy obstacle with a big log to get across.
Watching my puppy explore the scents and sights of the forest was a joy. It’s moments like these that remind me how important it is to have trails where dogs are welcome. Tasmania Parks & Wildlife has strict protocols around pets - and rightly so, to protect our native wildlife - but I’m grateful that trails like Snug Falls still offer a chance for responsible dog owners to enjoy nature with their companions.
If you’re planning a visit, consider making a day of it. Nearby Margate offers some lovely spots to grab a brew, and if you’re up for a scenic drive, head further towards Kettering where you’ll find orchards, cider houses, distilleries, and more tucked into the hills and coastline.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Tassie, Snug Falls is a perfect short hike to enjoy with your furry friend. It’s peaceful, accessible, and a great way to soak in the beauty of our island - muddy paws and all.
Adi Munshi – Manager
Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre