A large Eucalypt with its roots wrapped around a huge, sandstone boulder.
Highlights
The 'Octopus Tree', a large Eucalyptus delegatensis that grows over a sandstone boulder, with its roots wrapping around the boulder, leading to its name.
Nature
Park size: 18,011 hectares
Natural features
Along the trail, a variety of ferns, mosses, and other plant life can be seen. During the colder months, several species of fungi can often be seen along the path as well. the Octopus Tree is the only recorded example of a Eucalyptus delegatensis in the forest.
Conservation
Kunanyi/Mt Wellington is a known breeding ground for the critically endangered Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor) and is also home to the endangered Tasmanian Masked Owl (Tyto novaehollandiae castanops), Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila audax fleayi) and Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii).
Feral cats are a threat to biodiversity within the park, as are other Introduced species including the Superb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae).
Track details
After parking at the carpark on Shoebridge Bend, head across the road and up a further 25 metres, where the trail begins. This is a sharp corner, so caution should be taken when crossing the road. The trail to the Octopus Tree runs along the Shoobridge Track and traverses through wet eucalpt forest. Along the way, you will come across a fork in the trail. Take the top, left hand route. the next fork in the trail you will come across leads to the Octopus Tree on the right hand side of the trail, which is a couple of metres off the main Shoobridge Track. After spending some time admiring the tree and the sandstone boulder it is wrapped around, make your way back the way you came to the trailhead.
Conditions
Weather conditions within Wellington Park can change rapidly, potentially bringing high winds, rain, and snow, even in summer. Check local weather forecasts before attempting any walks in Wellington Park. Also be aware that roads may be closed on certain days during winter due to icy roads and snow cover.
The fire danger rating for the area should also be checked. Be aware that Wellington Park is closed on days with a fire danger rating of Extreme or Catastrophic in the Upper Derwent Valley or South East districts.
For up to date weather forecasting on Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, refer to: http://www.bom.gov.au/tas/forecasts/mtwellington.shtml
Safety advice
The trail is often damp, and can therefore be slippery, presenting a tripping hazard.
Ensure you are appropriately prepared for mountain weather conditions, and have warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes or boots, and food and water.
Weather conditions can change rapidly within the area, with freezing temperatures occurring regularly.
Hikers should also be aware of the possibility of bushfires as this is a forested environment.
During spring, summer and autumn, be aware that snakes may be active in the area. If encountered, move away from them slowly.
If you are injured and require emergency medical attention, call 000.
For further information on bushfires in Tasmania, refer to: https://www.fire.tas.gov.au/
Age restrictions and advice
This walk is appropriate for all ages, however, there are forks in the trail and children should therefore be supervised to avoid becoming lost.
Location
7054, Tasmania, Australia
From Hobart, drive up Davey Street, which later becomes Huon Road. Continue around 7.2km past the Southern Outlet intersection before turning on to Pillinger Drive, which then becomes Pinnacle Road. From the turnoff, continue up the road for 2.6km. you will reach a small carpark on the left side of the road. From here, the start of the trail is about 25 metres further up and across the road.
Nature
Park size: 18,011 hectares
Natural features
Along the trail, a variety of ferns, mosses, and other plant life can be seen. During the colder months, several species of fungi can often be seen along the path as well. the Octopus Tree is the only recorded example of a Eucalyptus delegatensis in the forest.
Conservation
Kunanyi/Mt Wellington is a known breeding ground for the critically endangered Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor) and is also home to the endangered Tasmanian Masked Owl (Tyto novaehollandiae castanops), Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila audax fleayi) and Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii).
Feral cats are a threat to biodiversity within the park, as are other Introduced species including the Superb Lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae).
Track details
After parking at the carpark on Shoebridge Bend, head across the road and up a further 25 metres, where the trail begins. This is a sharp corner, so caution should be taken when crossing the road. The trail to the Octopus Tree runs along the Shoobridge Track and traverses through wet eucalpt forest. Along the way, you will come across a fork in the trail. Take the top, left hand route. the next fork in the trail you will come across leads to the Octopus Tree on the right hand side of the trail, which is a couple of metres off the main Shoobridge Track. After spending some time admiring the tree and the sandstone boulder it is wrapped around, make your way back the way you came to the trailhead.
Conditions
Weather conditions within Wellington Park can change rapidly, potentially bringing high winds, rain, and snow, even in summer. Check local weather forecasts before attempting any walks in Wellington Park. Also be aware that roads may be closed on certain days during winter due to icy roads and snow cover.
The fire danger rating for the area should also be checked. Be aware that Wellington Park is closed on days with a fire danger rating of Extreme or Catastrophic in the Upper Derwent Valley or South East districts.
For up to date weather forecasting on Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, refer to: http://www.bom.gov.au/tas/forecasts/mtwellington.shtml
Safety advice
The trail is often damp, and can therefore be slippery, presenting a tripping hazard.
Ensure you are appropriately prepared for mountain weather conditions, and have warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes or boots, and food and water.
Weather conditions can change rapidly within the area, with freezing temperatures occurring regularly.
Hikers should also be aware of the possibility of bushfires as this is a forested environment.
During spring, summer and autumn, be aware that snakes may be active in the area. If encountered, move away from them slowly.
If you are injured and require emergency medical attention, call 000.
For further information on bushfires in Tasmania, refer to: https://www.fire.tas.gov.au/
Age restrictions and advice
This walk is appropriate for all ages, however, there are forks in the trail and children should therefore be supervised to avoid becoming lost.
Location
7054, Tasmania, Australia
From Hobart, drive up Davey Street, which later becomes Huon Road. Continue around 7.2km past the Southern Outlet intersection before turning on to Pillinger Drive, which then becomes Pinnacle Road. From the turnoff, continue up the road for 2.6km. you will reach a small carpark on the left side of the road. From here, the start of the trail is about 25 metres further up and across the road.