Australia — Hobart
Cape Raoul Track: A moderate 14km day walk on Tasmania's rugged Tasman Peninsula, offering spectacular coastal panoramas. Traverse dramatic sea cliffs plunging into the Southern Ocean, revealing unique rock formations and pristine wilderness. This scenic route provides breathtaking ocean vistas and a chance to witness the raw beauty of the Australian coastline. Allow 5-6 hours for this unforgettable walk.
Distance: 14.0 km
Elevation Gain: 400 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 5-6 hours
The Cape Raoul Track is a spectacular day walk located on the rugged Tasman Peninsula, south-east of Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. This trail offers breathtaking coastal scenery, dramatic sea cliffs, and a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Tasmanian coastline. It is renowned for its stunning ocean vistas, unique rock formations, and the sheer scale of the cliffs that plunge into the Southern Ocean. The walk is accessible as a day trip, making it a popular choice for visitors to the region seeking an immersive natural experience without the commitment of an overnight trek.
The Cape Raoul Track is a quintessential Tasmanian coastal walk, celebrated for its dramatic geological features and sweeping ocean panoramas. The trail winds through coastal heathland and eucalyptus forests before emerging onto the exposed cliff tops, offering unparalleled views of the Tasman Sea, the iconic dolerite sea stacks, and the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean. The moderate difficulty level, combined with the relatively short duration, makes it an achievable yet rewarding experience for a wide range of walkers.
The walk begins with a gentle ascent through native bushland, providing a sense of seclusion and immersion in the local flora and fauna. As the track progresses, the vegetation thins, and the first glimpses of the dramatic coastline begin to appear. The trail then leads to the edge of the peninsula, where sheer dolerite cliffs drop hundreds of metres to the churning sea below. These cliffs, formed by ancient volcanic activity, are a defining feature of the landscape, sculpted by millennia of wind and wave erosion.
Key highlights include the impressive dolerite columns, the vastness of the ocean, and the potential to spot marine life such as seals, dolphins, and even whales during their migration seasons. The exposed nature of the track means that weather can change rapidly, so walkers should be prepared for all conditions. The return journey offers a different perspective on the landscape, allowing for reflection on the immense scale and power of the natural environment.
The Tasman Peninsula, including the area around Cape Raoul, has a rich and complex history. For millennia, the land was inhabited by the Aboriginal people of Tasmania, who utilised the coastal resources and traversed the landscape for sustenance and cultural practices. Evidence of their presence can be found in the archaeological record, though much of their tangible heritage has been lost due to colonisation.
European settlement in the region began in the early 19th century, with the area later becoming known for its penal colonies, most notably at Port Arthur. The rugged terrain and isolation made it an ideal location for such institutions. Over time, the peninsula also saw development for agriculture and timber harvesting, though the challenging coastal environment has largely preserved its wild character.
The development of walking tracks like the Cape Raoul Track is a more recent phenomenon, driven by a desire to showcase and protect Tasmania's natural beauty. The track itself has been established and maintained by Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania, ensuring that visitors can safely access and appreciate this remarkable coastal environment. The geological formations, such as the distinctive dolerite columns, are a testament to the region's volcanic past, dating back millions of years. The ongoing erosion by the powerful Southern Ocean continues to shape these dramatic cliffs, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape.
The Cape Raoul Track is best enjoyed during the warmer months, typically from October to April, which encompass spring, summer, and early autumn in Tasmania. During this period, the weather is generally more stable, with longer daylight hours and a higher probability of clear skies, allowing for the most spectacular views.
Spring (October–November): The landscape comes alive with wildflowers, and the native flora begins to bloom. The weather can be variable, with a mix of sunny days and cooler, wetter periods. Sandflies can start to become active, especially in sheltered, damp areas.
Summer (December–February): This is the warmest and driest period, offering the best conditions for walking. Long daylight hours are ideal for a leisurely pace. However, summer can also bring strong winds, and the exposed nature of the track means that even on warm days, the wind chill can be significant. Sandflies are at their most prevalent during summer.
Autumn (March–April): The colours of the eucalyptus forests can be beautiful, and the weather often remains pleasant with crisp, clear days. The number of sandflies typically decreases. However, as autumn progresses, the likelihood of rain and cooler temperatures increases, and daylight hours shorten.
Winter (May–September): While the track is technically open year-round, winter is generally not recommended for casual day walkers. The weather can be harsh, with frequent rain, strong winds, and cold temperatures. Visibility can be severely reduced by fog and cloud, diminishing the scenic value and increasing the risk of getting lost. Snow is rare at sea level but can occur at higher elevations.
Weather Reality: It is crucial to understand that coastal Tasmania experiences unpredictable weather. Even during the best seasons, conditions can change rapidly. Strong winds are a common feature of the Tasman Peninsula, and rain can occur at any time of year. Always check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for a range of conditions.
Early Morning (Approx. 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Departure from Hobart
Morning (Approx. 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM): Arrival at Trailhead and Preparation
Late Morning to Midday (Approx. 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM): Ascent through Forest and Heathland
Midday to Early Afternoon (Approx. 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM): Reaching the Cliffs and Coastal Vistas
Afternoon (Approx. 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM): Exploration and Return Journey
Late Afternoon (Approx. 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Completion of Walk and Departure
Important Notes:
The Cape Raoul Track is a day walk, meaning no overnight bookings are required. However, thorough preparation is still essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. The closest major city and logistical hub is Hobart. From Hobart, you will need to drive approximately two hours to reach the trailhead on the Tasman Peninsula. It is advisable to fill up your fuel tank in Hobart or a larger town en route, as services are limited closer to the peninsula. Ensure you have a reliable map or GPS device, as mobile phone reception can be intermittent in some areas. Familiarise yourself with the route and any potential hazards before you depart. Consider the time of year you plan to visit, as this will influence weather conditions and the prevalence of sandflies.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation.
Generally, no specific permits are required to walk the Cape Raoul Track. It is part of the Tasman National Park, and standard entry fees may apply if you are entering the park via a paid entry point, though the trailhead itself is usually accessible without an individual fee for day use. However, it is always advisable to check the official Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania website for any current alerts, closures, or changes to access conditions before your visit. This is particularly important if there have been recent weather events or if any maintenance work is scheduled for the track.
Key points regarding permits:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Cape Raoul Track (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Cape Raoul Track, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The Tasman Peninsula offers a wealth of attractions and activities beyond the Cape Raoul Track, making it an ideal destination for a multi-day exploration:
Pre-Departure Checks:
On the Track:
Emergency Contact: In case of emergency, dial 000 (Australia's emergency number). If you have a PLB, activate it according to its instructions.
While the Cape Raoul Track itself is the primary destination, the surrounding area offers several significant points of interest that can be incorporated into your visit:
Tasman Arch: Located a short drive from the Cape Raoul trailhead, Tasman Arch is a magnificent natural sandstone arch carved by the relentless action of the sea. It's a spectacular example of coastal erosion and offers fantastic photographic opportunities. A short, easy walk leads to viewing platforms.
Devil's Kitchen: Also a short drive away, Devil's Kitchen is a deep chasm or blowhole formed by erosion. Waves crash into the chasm, creating dramatic spray and a powerful spectacle. Viewing platforms provide safe vantage points to observe this natural wonder.
Remarkable Cave: Accessible via a boardwalk and a steep staircase, Remarkable Cave is a large, wedge-shaped sea cave. The cave's unique shape and the way light filters through it make it a truly remarkable sight. It is best viewed at low tide.
Dolphin Sands: For those who enjoy a beach walk, Dolphin Sands offers a long stretch of golden sand, perfect for a leisurely stroll before or after your hike. The waters here can be rough, so swimming is often not advised.
The Blowhole: Another impressive coastal feature where waves are forced through a narrow opening in the rock, creating a powerful spout of water. This is a classic example of coastal erosion at work.
These sites are generally easily accessible by car and involve short, well-maintained walks, making them perfect additions to a day trip to Cape Raoul.
The Cape Raoul Track traverses a sensitive coastal environment within the Tasman National Park. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is crucial to preserving its natural beauty and ecological integrity for future visitors.
Your responsibility as a walker:
By following these principles, you help ensure that the Cape Raoul Track remains a pristine and enjoyable experience for everyone.
