Highlights
A lovely, short walk with expansive views of the organ pipes, Hobart, and the surrounding areas. Varied plant types and bird species can be seen along the way.
Nature
Park size: 18,011 hectares
Natural features
While the dominant rock type on Kunanyi/Mt Wellington is dolerite, Sphinx Rock is a sandstone outcrop located at an altitude of approximately 700 metres.
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
The trail to Sphinx Rock is relatively flat and well maintained, and traverses through eucalyptus forest, culminating at the Sphinx Rock lookout.
The trail starts at The Springs near the toilets and the Lost Freight Café and is well signposted. The walk is part of the Lenah Valley Track and begins in denser forest, before passing through sections of more open eucalyptus forest and dolerite boulder fields. Trees and boulders along the route are often covered in damp moss and lichen, and during the cooler months, fungi is also common. The turnoff to the lookout is signposted and has a childproof gate prior to reaching the exposed cliff edge.
The lookout is a great place for a snack or to have lunch, before making your way back the way you came to the trailhead at The Springs.
It is common to see and hear a range of birdlife along the track, including species of currawongs, wattlebirds and wrens. Wedge-tailed Eagles and the critically endangered Swift Parrot can also be seen in the area.
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, especially during winter, due to icy roads and snow cover.
Ensure you have appropriate sun protection, as UV radiation is stronger in high altitude areas, such as on mountains. 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
At Sphinx Rock lookout, there are exposed cliff edges without railings. Do not approach cliff edges and ensure children are accompanied at all times.
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
While this walk is appropriate for all ages, adult supervision of children is recommended as there are exposed cliff ledges without fencing.
Location
Grays Fire Trail, Wellington Park Tasmania 7054, 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 4.1km, where you will reach The Springs. Here, you will find multiple car parks, however, it can be busy during holidays.
Alternatively, the Kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Bus can be used to Access The Springs as well as other parts of the mountain, with more information provided here: https://mtwellingtonexplorer.com.au/
Nature
Park size: 18,011 hectares
Natural features
While the dominant rock type on Kunanyi/Mt Wellington is dolerite, Sphinx Rock is a sandstone outcrop located at an altitude of approximately 700 metres.
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
The trail to Sphinx Rock is relatively flat and well maintained, and traverses through eucalyptus forest, culminating at the Sphinx Rock lookout.
The trail starts at The Springs near the toilets and the Lost Freight Café and is well signposted. The walk is part of the Lenah Valley Track and begins in denser forest, before passing through sections of more open eucalyptus forest and dolerite boulder fields. Trees and boulders along the route are often covered in damp moss and lichen, and during the cooler months, fungi is also common. The turnoff to the lookout is signposted and has a childproof gate prior to reaching the exposed cliff edge.
The lookout is a great place for a snack or to have lunch, before making your way back the way you came to the trailhead at The Springs.
It is common to see and hear a range of birdlife along the track, including species of currawongs, wattlebirds and wrens. Wedge-tailed Eagles and the critically endangered Swift Parrot can also be seen in the area.
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, especially during winter, due to icy roads and snow cover.
Ensure you have appropriate sun protection, as UV radiation is stronger in high altitude areas, such as on mountains. 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
At Sphinx Rock lookout, there are exposed cliff edges without railings. Do not approach cliff edges and ensure children are accompanied at all times.
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
While this walk is appropriate for all ages, adult supervision of children is recommended as there are exposed cliff ledges without fencing.
Location
Grays Fire Trail, Wellington Park Tasmania 7054, 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 4.1km, where you will reach The Springs. Here, you will find multiple car parks, however, it can be busy during holidays.
Alternatively, the Kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Bus can be used to Access The Springs as well as other parts of the mountain, with more information provided here: https://mtwellingtonexplorer.com.au/
Key info
45 minutes return
2.6 km return
Grade 1: Easy
Facilities
Facilities can be found at the beginning of the walk at The Springs, however, no facilities are found further along the trail. The track is dog friendly, however, other types of pets such as cats should be left at home.