Australia — Hobart
Cape Hauy Track: A moderate 8.8km coastal walk on Tasmania's Tasman Peninsula, offering dramatic dolerite cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas. This 3-4 hour route, part of the Three Capes Track, winds through eucalyptus forests before revealing the iconic Totem Pole sea stack. Expect exposed headlands and a truly scenic panorama.
Distance: 8.8 km
Elevation Gain: 300 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3-4 hours
The Cape Hauy Track is a spectacular coastal walk on the Tasman Peninsula, Tasmania, Australia. Renowned for its dramatic dolerite cliffs, sweeping ocean vistas, and the iconic Totem Pole sea stack, this trail offers a relatively short but intensely rewarding experience. It forms part of the Three Capes Track, a multi-day wilderness walk, but can be easily completed as a day hike. The path winds through coastal heath and eucalyptus forests before emerging onto the exposed headland, providing breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean and the rugged coastline. It's a journey that showcases the raw power and beauty of Tasmania's wild eastern shores.
The Cape Hauy Track is a testament to the dramatic geological forces that have shaped Tasmania's coastline. This 8.8 km return walk is a highlight of the Tasman Peninsula, offering a concentrated dose of coastal grandeur. Starting from the tranquil Fortescue Bay, the trail initially meanders through coastal woodlands, providing a gentle introduction before the landscape opens up to reveal the full extent of the Tasman Sea.
As you ascend, the vegetation thins, and the path becomes more exposed, offering increasingly spectacular views. The dolerite cliffs, formed from ancient volcanic activity, plunge hundreds of metres to the churning ocean below. These sheer rock faces are a photographer's dream, especially when bathed in the golden light of sunrise or sunset. The trail is well-maintained, with boardwalks and steps in steeper sections, but caution is advised due to the proximity of cliff edges.
The main drawcard is undoubtedly Cape Hauy itself, a prominent headland jutting out into the sea. Here, the iconic Totem Pole, a slender dolerite column, stands sentinel offshore, a testament to the relentless erosion by wind and waves. Nearby, the Candlestick, another impressive sea stack, adds to the dramatic seascape. The panoramic views from the cape are simply awe-inspiring, stretching across the vast Southern Ocean and back towards the rugged coastline of the Tasman Peninsula. Keep an eye out for seabirds, and if you're lucky, you might even spot whales during their migration seasons.
While the walk is moderate, the exposure to the elements and the sheer drops require a good level of fitness and a head for heights. It's a walk that rewards effort with unparalleled natural beauty, making it a must-do for any visitor to Tasmania.
The Tasman Peninsula, including the area around Cape Hauy, has a rich and complex history. For millennia, this land was the traditional territory of the Muwinina people, an Aboriginal Tasmanian nation. They utilised the coastal resources, including the abundant marine life and the flora and fauna of the forests, for sustenance and cultural practices. Evidence of their presence can be found in shell middens and other archaeological sites scattered throughout the region, though specific historical records for the immediate Cape Hauy area are less detailed than for other parts of Tasmania.
European settlement in the area began in the early 19th century, primarily driven by the need for timber and the establishment of penal colonies. The nearby settlement of Port Arthur, established in 1830, was one of the most notorious Australian penal settlements. While Cape Hauy itself was not a direct part of the penal operations, its proximity meant that the surrounding landscape was surveyed and exploited for resources. The rugged coastline also played a role in maritime history, with numerous shipwrecks occurring along the treacherous shores of Tasmania, a constant reminder of the power of the Southern Ocean.
In more recent times, the area has been recognised for its outstanding natural beauty and ecological significance. The establishment of national parks and conservation reserves, including the Tasman National Park which encompasses Cape Hauy, has aimed to protect these unique landscapes and their biodiversity. The development of the Three Capes Track, of which Cape Hauy is a part, has further highlighted the importance of this region for both nature-based tourism and conservation efforts. The track's design aims to minimise environmental impact while maximising the visitor experience of this wild and beautiful coastline.
The Cape Hauy Track is accessible year-round, but each season offers a different experience:
Spring (October to November): This is a fantastic time to visit. The coastal heath bursts into bloom with a vibrant array of wildflowers, including native peas, banksias, and waratahs. The weather is generally mild, though still prone to change. Birdlife is active, and the cooler temperatures make for comfortable walking.
Summer (December to February): Summer offers the warmest weather, with long daylight hours. However, the track is very exposed, and temperatures can become uncomfortably hot, especially on the open headland. Sun protection is crucial. While generally drier, summer can still experience sudden squalls and strong winds. Sandflies can also be present, though usually less of an issue than in some other Tasmanian coastal areas.
Autumn (March to May): Autumn is often considered the best season for clear skies and stable weather. The colours of the eucalyptus forests can be beautiful, and the sea is often a deep, rich blue. The crowds of summer have thinned, offering a more peaceful experience. Temperatures are cool and pleasant for walking.
Winter (June to August): Winter brings cooler temperatures, higher rainfall, and stronger winds. While the landscape can be dramatic and moody in winter, the conditions can be challenging. Snow is rare at sea level but can occur on higher inland areas. The track remains open, but visitors should be prepared for wet and windy conditions, and shorter daylight hours.
Weather Reality: Regardless of the season, the weather on the Tasman Peninsula can change rapidly. The exposed nature of Cape Hauy means that conditions can shift from calm and sunny to windy, wet, and cold within a short period. Always check the forecast before you go and be prepared for all eventualities. The sea can be particularly rough, and the wind can be relentless.
Morning (Approx. 9:00 AM): Arrival at Fortescue Bay
Late Morning (Approx. 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM): Commence Walk to Cape Hauy
Midday (Approx. 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Ascend to the Headland
Early Afternoon (Approx. 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Arrive at Cape Hauy
Mid-Afternoon (Approx. 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM): Return Walk to Fortescue Bay
Late Afternoon (Approx. 2:30 PM - 3:00 PM): Arrive back at Fortescue Bay
Optional Extensions:
Important Notes:
The Cape Hauy Track is a popular day walk, and while no bookings are required for the track itself, planning your visit is still essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. The closest major city is Hobart, which serves as the primary gateway for travellers. From Hobart, the drive to Fortescue Bay on the Tasman Peninsula takes approximately 1.5 hours (around 85 km) via the Tasman Highway (A3). The road is sealed and well-maintained, making access straightforward.
Fortescue Bay is a beautiful, sheltered bay with a campground and boat ramp, offering basic facilities. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season or on weekends, as parking can become limited. Ensure you have all your supplies before leaving Hobart or the larger towns on the peninsula, as services are scarce closer to the trailhead. Mobile phone reception can be patchy in the area, so download offline maps and information beforehand.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation. Fortescue Bay offers a campground with basic facilities for those wishing to stay overnight in the vicinity, but the Cape Hauy Track itself is walked within a single day.
No permits are required to walk the Cape Hauy Track as a day hike. Access to Fortescue Bay and the trailhead is free. This makes it an easily accessible and popular destination for both locals and tourists.
However, it is important to note that the Cape Hauy Track is part of the larger Three Capes Track, which is a multi-day wilderness experience. For the Three Capes Track, advance bookings and permits are mandatory, and these are managed by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service. Day walkers do not need to book or pay for access to the Cape Hauy section.
Important Considerations:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Cape Hauy Track (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Cape Hauy Track, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The Tasman Peninsula is rich with attractions, making it worthwhile to extend your visit:
Pre-Walk Checks:
On the Track:
Emergency Procedures:
The Totem Pole and Candlestick: These are the absolute highlights of the Cape Hauy walk. The Totem Pole is a striking, slender dolerite sea stack that stands proudly offshore, a testament to the relentless power of erosion. Nearby, the Candlestick is another impressive rock formation. The viewing platforms at Cape Hauy offer excellent vantage points for photographing these natural wonders. The sheer scale and isolation of these formations are awe-inspiring.
Coastal Vistas: Beyond the sea stacks, the entire walk offers magnificent panoramic views of the Southern Ocean. On clear days, you can see for miles, with the rugged coastline stretching out in both directions. The dramatic dolerite cliffs, with their distinctive columnar jointing, provide a stunning backdrop.
Fortescue Bay: The starting and ending point of the walk, Fortescue Bay itself is a beautiful, sheltered bay. It's a great spot for a picnic, a swim (though the water can be cool), or simply to relax and enjoy the scenery before or after your hike. The bay is also a popular launching point for boaters and kayakers.
Coastal Heathland: As you walk, you'll pass through diverse coastal heathland ecosystems. In spring, this area is particularly beautiful with a variety of wildflowers in bloom. The unique flora is adapted to the harsh coastal conditions.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for seabirds nesting on the cliffs or soaring overhead. During migration seasons (typically May-July and September-November), there's a chance of spotting whales offshore. Fur seals may also be seen in the waters around the cape.
The Cape Hauy Track traverses a sensitive coastal environment within the Tasman National Park. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is crucial to preserve its natural beauty and ecological integrity for future visitors.
Your responsibility as a walker:
By following these principles, you help ensure that the stunning natural environment of Cape Hauy remains pristine and enjoyable for everyone.
