Overlooking the state capital, this park proves you don’t have to travel far from the city to experience Tasmania’s famously rugged wilderness.
Covering 18,000 hectares (44,000 acres) on the edge of Hobart, Wellington Park is a region of immense natural beauty, home to indigenous flora and fauna. At its centre is the towering kunanyi/Mount Wellington, the iconic peak visible from across the city. Often adorned with snow in the depths of the Tasmanian winter, the 1,269-metre (4163-foot) summit can be reached by car from the city in just a 20-minute drive. Watch as Tasmania’s undulating landscape unfolds before your eyes from what is undeniably the best view of Hobart and its idyllic harbour.
Designated paths traverse the diverse landscape of Wellington Park and maps are found throughout. Visit the Service Tasmania store in Hobart to pick up printed versions of maps or download them using your smart phone device. Wellington Park presents great opportunities for exploring Tasmania’s wilderness without the challenge of reaching its remote areas. Hike through the park to see the Organ Pipes rock formations. Other mountains in the park include Sleeping Beauty, Collins Cap and Cathedral Rock.
Follow the 21-kilometre (13-mile) road to reach kunanyi/Mount Wellington’s summit to take in one of the best vistas in the state. Capture photographs of the city beneath you from the pinnacle observation shelter. A car park and picnic area are located at the summit of the mountain.
Look for many of Tasmania’s marsupials that call the park home. These include potoroos, possums and bandicoots. The animals have made their home around the 500 species of plant located in Wellington Park, many of which can only be found in Tasmania.
Reach Wellington Park by car from the centre of Hobart or catch a local bus to Fern Tree, part of the way to the summit. A challenging 14-kilometre (9-mile) hike from the city centre leads to the summit but should only be attempted with ample water and proper hiking shoes. There is no fee to visit the park and it can be visited at all times however, the pinnacle observation shelter is closed at night.
