Mount Wellington walks in Hobart, Tasmania are one of the top things to do when visiting the Australian city.
Highlights of Mount Wellington hikes are the famous ‘Organ Pipes’ rock formations, the Mt Wellington lookout at the summit and gorgeous views from these Tasmania hiking trails.
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We’ll show you how to experience all of these (and more) and tell you why we chose to hike down Mount Wellington!
How To Hike Mount Wellington in Hobart
We were eager to tackle the trails on Mt Wellington…but we had just one obstacle: We were visiting Hobart without a car.
Determined to get to the top of Mount Wellington Tasmania, we considered all of our options for getting to these Hobart walking tracks.
We were either going to have to make the entire trek with our own two feet, take a local bus to a Mt Wellington trailhead or join an organized tour to the top via shuttle bus.
Mount Wellington Walking Tracks from Hobart CBD
There is a way to complete an epic Tasmania hike on a full-day trek from Hobart City Center – including the Mount Wellington summit walk.
Walking west on Davey Street, when the road merges with Romily Street, walkers then join the Pipeline Track to Mt. Wellington.
These Hobart walking tracks pass the Lower and Upper Reservoir (where there is a public toilet) and continue all the way to the Fern Tree Tavern.
Complete the Fern Tree to Mount Wellington Summit Trek
Walkers then start the uphill climb via Fern Glad Track that connects to Radfords Track and eventually to Pinnacle Track (at The Springs).
The trail ultimately splits into the Zig Zag Track and Organ Pipes Track. Zig Zag Track leads up to the summit and the Pinnacle Observation Deck and parking lot.
From the Hobart CBD, we estimate that the roundtrip Mt Wellington Summit Walk would take 8 to 10 hours to complete. We, however, were not prepared for such an adventure.
How To Get to Mt Wellington from Hobart via Public Transport
There is also a public bus runs from Hobart to Fern Tree. A one-way ride takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on time of day and day of the week. Tickets cost about $3.50 AUD (but are less expensive with the Greencard).
While the timetables were ideal and the price was certainly affordable, we fretted about the inclined trek. To be honest, we were uncertain if we had the required stamina for the roundtrip.
Not willing to accept defeat, we sought out another way to tackle Mount Wellington. We succeeded in finding an alternate way – and a route that didn’t require hiking uphill!
Shuttle Bus to Mt Wellington, Tasmania
When we first read about shuttle bus tours to the Mount Wellington Summit, we immediately dismissed the idea.
The excursion takes passengers from the city center to the summit…only allowing 35 minutes at the top to take in the views.
While seeing the stunning landscapes was one of our top reasons for going to Hobart, we were still interested in spending time hiking on Mount Wellington walking tracks.
However, with a little more digging, we uncovered the perfect compromise. The tour company also offers a one-way ride up, which allows you to hike down Mount Wellington on your own.
Then from Fern Tree, you can catch the public bus or take the Hobart walking tracks Pipeline trail back into the city.
Get more details and book your One-Way Mount Wellington Shuttle Bus!
How We Hiked Down Mt. Wellington
On the day we decided to go up Mount Wellington in Hobart, the sun was warm and the air was clear.
We laced up our walking shoes, filled up our reusable water bottles and, almost as an afterthought, packed caps and scarfs.
Mt. Wellington Shuttle Bus Transport
We bought our one-way shuttle bus tickets from the Hobart Tourist Office (but can be purchased online) and were promptly picked up at 1:30pm.
The Mount Wellington bus was full, but we learned that there was only one other passenger besides us who would be hiking back down.
During the ascent, the Tasmanian landscape changed drastically. Leaving the suburbs of Hobart behind, we became enveloped in leafy forest and then made the last stretch up above the tree line.
From sea level, the snow had looked like a mere sprinkle, but once we were in it, it was an icy thick blanket in many areas.
Before We Began Down Mount Wellington
As we were about to get out of the van, the driver handed me a Mount Wellington map and casually mentioned that we should be aware of snakes. Then added nonchalantly that all snakes in Tasmania are poisonous.
He quickly rattled off the names of the four trails that would take us down to Fern Tree, and sent us on our way.
Venomous snakes aside, it all sounded simple enough, so we set off on our adventure of bushwalking in Tasmania by first taking in the astounding vistas over Hobart.
I stepped out of the bus and was immediately blasted with a bitter cold wind that nearly took my hat off. I pulled on my gloves, tightened my scarf and we headed to the Mount Wellington Lookout Point.
The city, river, islands and sea spread out below us like a painting. The view from the summit of Mt Wellington extended farther and was much more impressive than I had imagined it would be.
Since we hadn’t seen snow in a really, really long time, before we started hiking down, we built a small snowman. Okay, it was more like an iceman, and perhaps an omen.
Mount Wellington Walking Tracks: Zig Zag Trail
We set off on the Zig Zag Trail, slightly giddy that it was covered in snow. As it started sloping downward, the snow was eliciting fewer squeals of delight.
It was at this point we wondered where the one other hiker went. We could only guess they took one look at what we were now navigating and turned back for the shuttle!
After 10 minutes of hiking – or rather sliding – through wintry terrain we were clearly unprepared for, the novelty had completely worn off.
Without hand rails or markers, we had no idea if we were on the trail at all and relied on previous footprints to lead the way.
With the steep descent, howling wind at our backs and slick snow, we were on our rear ends as much as we were on our feet.
Early on, there was a point we were both ready to call it quits, head back to the summit and pay the additional amount for the shuttle to take us back down the mountain. But two things made us keep going.
First, considering the difficulty we were having hiking down, we weren’t sure we could even make it back up to the summit. Second, by the time we reached the top, it was likely our ride would have already left.
So, we pressed on, occasionally stopping to admire our surroundings. With ragged breath and quivering muscles, the icy stretch was soon behind us.
Then the tranquility finally settled-in over the natural landscape. The short walk on Zigzag Track Mt. Wellington was worth it!
Mt Wellington Organ Pipes and Pinnacle Tracks
We had originally planned to detour onto the Organ Pipes Trail at this point for a closer view of the dolerite rocks. However, after the trying conditions, we wanted to keep moving along.
In hindsight, we should have made the effort – as we heard from other hikers that it is a highlight of all Mt. Wellington hikes.
In any event, we merged onto the Pinnacle Trail, which was rocky and, in places, more of a gooey sludge than a trail, but I have never been more excited for mud in my life.
With renewed spirit in our steps, we quietly walked through the forest of Eucalyptus trees. With less worry about foot placement, our senses were free to wander.
Tasmania Mount Wellington Nature
We soon smelled the pungent scent of damp earth and decaying leaves. On our faces, we felt a light breeze from wind that got tangled in the treetops.
We could hear the trickle of snowmelt that flowed down Mt Wellington next to the path and – sometimes – on the path itself.
We listened to the noisy birds overhead and with any rustle of the bushes, we would stop and strain our eyes in search of the elusive Tasmanian Devil, but we never caught sight of one.
Twice, however, we got a glimpse of Tasmanian pademelons, a marsupial similar to a wallaby, feeding on grasses and plants.
We passed no one and no one passed us – and again wondered what happened to the only other hiker from our bus ride up Mt Welly.
The Springs Wellington Park
We began to hear the hum of cars, indicating we had arrived at The Springs – which meant we had already hiked about two-thirds of the way from the summit to Fern Tree.
We bypassed the Lost Freight Café and hiked to The Springs Lookout Point, which was underwhelming compared to the summit.
However, the gem of The Springs observation point is that we could see to the peak of Mount Wellington and the distance we had hiked so far. “We were up there???” we laughed.
Completing the Mt Wellington Hike to Fern Tree Tavern
Although the downhill Mt Wellington walking trails had been less physically demanding than an inclined trek, at this point, we were both ready for the hike to be over. Yet, we had one section to complete.
We picked up the Radfords Trail and connected onto Middle Trail. Slightly hobbling, but not slowing our pace, we finally emerged from the woods to the glorious sight of the Fern Tree Tavern.
We located the simple sign-posted bus stop and checked the timetable. The next bus from Fern Tree to Hobart – which was the last scheduled bus of the day – was not due to arrive for 30 minutes.
Rather than lick our wounds on the side of the road, Kris proclaimed, “Let’s go grab some victory pints” – and we limped across the street into the Fern Tree Tavern!
What You Will Need For Your Tasmania Hike
Without a doubt, we were woefully unprepared for our Mt. Wellington Tasmania hike downhill. Before you set off, make sure you are prepared with the essentials!
Mt. Wellington Walks Map
If you take the Mount Wellington shuttle bus, they should provide you with a map. However, if you making the full-day hike from Hobart to Mount Wellington, be sure to pick up a trail map at the tourist information office.
Walking Shoes
Had it not been snowy, our versatile travel shoes would have likely been sufficient. Kris made the hike in Merrell Trail shoes and I wore NB trainers.
Tasmania Weather Appropriate Attire
In the summertime, wearing breathable hiking clothes is advisable – as is sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat.
In the spring and autumn, we recommend wearing layers – as the summit will be much colder than the base.
Water, Snacks & Day Pack
It is vital to carry sufficient water with you when hiking Mount Wellington. These collapsible, refillable water bottles are great for travelers.
It is also a good idea to pack some energy-boosting snacks – like trail mix – and have a great day bag to carry all your essential items.
Travel Camera
The stunning scenery is one of the top reasons to go for a hike on Mount Wellington! Rather than trying to capture it with our phones, we use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens.
Travel Insurance for Australia
While trip insurance may be helpful with delayed flights or lost luggage, it can also be beneficial when travelers fall ill or get injured abroad. Check rates and coverage at World Nomads.
More Mount Wellington Tasmania Best Hikes
Trekkers – either with a car or more gumption – could hike one of the other Mount Wellington walking tracks. Ambitious hikers can even create a loop walk by combining the interconnecting trails.
Panorama Track Mt. Wellington
A short track on the north side of Mount Wellington, Panorama Trail is accessed near the summit. The track in a one-way jaunt that starts and ends on different points of Pinnacle Road.
Lenah Valley Track
The Lenah Valley Trail can be completed as an out-and-back or connected with other trails to create a loop walk. It is considered to be a challenging track and offers super scenic points along the route.
Ice House Track Mount Wellington
On the south side of the mountain, the Ice House Track connects to others that can be used to make a looping trail to the summit from The Springs picnic area. Trekkers can also take a detour to Smiths Monument.
Guided Tasmania Walks and Tours
Looking back, we enjoyed how we were able to do our hike. Well, at least it makes for a funny story! Others may be more interested in guided walks or Mount Wellington tours.
Mount Wellington Tour from Hobart
On this tour from Hobart, participants are taken to the summit in a vehicle with a guide, who shares information about the city, mountain and region.
Before returning, there is a second stop at the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site, which is one of the most significant sights in Hobart.
Hobart Hop On Hop Off Bus to Mt. Wellington
See the city of Hobart and travel to the summit of Mount Wellington on the convenient Hop On Hop Off Bus! In addition to the route that heads up to the top of the mountain, there is a second narrated city loop with 20 stops.
Mount Wellington Abseil
Thrill-seekers can see Mt. Wellington in a completely different way: With a 100 meter Abseil down the famous Organ Pipes rocks. Beginners are welcome on this unique outdoor experience!
Mt. Wellington, Wildlife Park & Richmond Tour
Go to the Mount Wellington Peak for amazing views, visit the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to get up close and personal with Tasmanian wildlife and then visit the historic town of Richmond. Learn more!
More Tips for Your Trip to Hobart, Tasmania
Mt. Wellington walks are just one of the many fun things to do in Hobart! Use our complete guide to sightseeing: A Perfect Hobart Itinerary.
As you make your plans, get (and stay) organized with our printable Travel Planner. It has everything you need to keep on top of the details of your vacation to Australia!
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- Springbrook National Park Trails near the Gold Coast
Start planning your trip to Australia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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