Mt Wellington, Hobart, Tasmania
WITHIN EASY REACH of Hobart, Wellington Park takes its name from Mount Wellington, or simply ‘the Mountain’ as the locals call it. Standing at 1271m, it is the highest peak in the park and provides an impressive view across the Tasman Sea and into the wild South West National Park.
Pack some warm clothes, bring a lunch and choose from a range of hiking tracks and trails threading the park. For a serious rock-climbing adventure, visit the internationally recognised Organ Pipes, an expanse of vertical dolerite buttresses high up on the Mountain. Bring your mountain bike for adventurous cycling on scenic routes or cross-country terrain.
Activities
Bushwalking: Hiking options vary from short and easy hikes in the foothills to challenging tracks deeper into the park. For a relaxing stroll, walk along the Fern Glade Track in the shade of fern trees, past bubbling streams and moss-covered rocks. For a steep and rocky walk with great views of nearby cliffs, the east coast and Hobart, go from The Springs to the Pinnacle via the Zig Zag Track. Find out more about the walking options here at www.wellingtonpark.org.au/assets/wellingtonpark_walkingoptionstable.pdf.
Rock climbing: There are several climbs available on the crags of the Mountain that range from short and hard routes to long multi-pitch and sport climbs. Climbing here is a serious endeavour; you should be well prepared for all kinds of weather and bring appropriate gear. A detailed guide, put together by local climbing enthusiasts, can be found at www.thesarvo.com/confluence/display/thesarvo/Mt+Wellington+Guide
The essentials
Location: A short drive from Hobart, take Pinnacle Road to get to the top of Mt Wellington, cycle or even walk from the city.
Accommodation: Camp in permitted areas; stay overnight in Hobart.
Food/drink: There are no retail facilities in the park, so bring your lunch or barbecue and enjoy it in a range of picnic spots.
Points of interest: Mt Wellington’s Pinnacle, Sphinx Rock and the Organ Pipes.
Maps: Available from Hobart Visitor Information Centre;
www.wellingtonpark.org.au/maps/
More info: www.wellingtonpark.org.au
