When I first moved to nipaluna/Hobart last year one of the many amazing things that struck me was the ever-present majesty of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. At 1271 metres above sea level it looms over our city from seemingly every angle. Interestingly it only comes in as the 51st highest peak in Tasmania but is the highest in the Wellington Range. The views from the Pinnacle over the Greater Hobart area, Derwent estuary and Bruny Island, especially on a fine day, are spectacular. Criss-crossed by many walking tracks and fire trails suitable for riders, joggers and walkers, the mountain is great place to explore all year round. There are also options for animal lovers too with 75kms of fire trails which can be accessed for horse riding and a selection of dog friendly tracks.
kunanyi (Credit: Josh Bates)
For a rewarding full day circuit walk, follow the Ice House track from The Springs through temperate rainforests and turn onto the South Wellington track. Further up the mountain, you’ll move into the sub-alpine regions with glacial rock formations that dominate the pinnacle of kunanyi. Take a break at the top before admiring the views from the three lookout points at the summit. Descend via the recently refurbished Zig Zag track back to The Springs where well-earned coffee awaits at Lost Freight Café.
At the Travel Centre, we can arrange a variety of ways to explore kunanyi. For the more adventurous how about a half day mountain bike ride that takes in both a summit descent and rainforest ride along the Pipeline Track. Or perhaps an all-day fully catered guided walk from sea to summit is more your style. For those short on time the official shuttle bus runs a 2 hour city to summit circuit four times daily. However you tackle the mountain remember to be well prepared with adequate clothing, water and food as the daily weather can be as diverse as the landscape.
Josh Bates - Travel Advisor
Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre