The Siphon Track is a connecting trail used to link the Pipeline Track to North West Bay River. It is very steep, however, it can be used as a shortcut to access different parts of the park.
Highlights
One of the steepest trails in the park makes for an exciting way to access the river below, or if done in reverse, to access the Pipeline Track and the Wellington Falls Track.
Nature
Park size: 18,011 hectares
Natural features
Wet eucalyptus forest with fern trees in the damper sections, particularly around the river and rivulet.
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).
Additional information
Please note that this is not a stand-alone walk, but rather a track that can be used to connect different parts of the park.
Track details
The trail is located next to the bike racks near the trailhead to Wellington Falls on the Pipeline Track.
While the syphon track begins as a steady downhill, it soon becomes extremely steep and can be quite slippery from the loose leaves and dirt. Use the trees along the side of the trail to keep yourself steady as you make your way down. Walking poles can also help to keep your balance for this section.
At the bottom of the steepest part of the syphon track, you will meet Plains Rivulet. Hop across the rocks and continue to the trail on the other side.
After walking a short distance, a rough track will appear off to your right leading down to Northwest Bay River.
Conditions
The trail is very steep, and is often wet, which can be extremely slippery.
While conditions may be fine at the outset of your walk, weather conditions within in this section of the park can change rapidly, potentially bringing high winds, rain, and snow, even during 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.
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 Southeast districts.
For up to date weather forecasting on Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, refer to: http://www.bom.gov.au/tas/forecasts/mtwellington.shtml
Safety advice
Ensure you are appropriately prepared for mountain weather conditions, and have warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy walking boots, a map, compass, food and water. Attempting walks in this region without adequate preparation is extremely dangerous and may lead to hypothermia and death.
There are sections of the trail where you may have limited access to mobile service, and it is recommended that walkers carry an emergency beacon device such as a PLB or EPIRB as well as let at least two people know which hike they are completing in case of an emergency.
This is a very steep trail, and walking poles are highly recommended.
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 track is not suitable for children.
Location
Pipeline Track, Wellington Park Tasmania 7054, Australia
The Siphon Track begins on the Pipeline Track adjacent to the Wellington Falls Lookout Track, and can either be accessed on foot or by bike. There is a bike rack at the top of the Siphon Track.
Nature
Park size: 18,011 hectares
Natural features
Wet eucalyptus forest with fern trees in the damper sections, particularly around the river and rivulet.
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).
Additional information
Please note that this is not a stand-alone walk, but rather a track that can be used to connect different parts of the park.
Track details
The trail is located next to the bike racks near the trailhead to Wellington Falls on the Pipeline Track.
While the syphon track begins as a steady downhill, it soon becomes extremely steep and can be quite slippery from the loose leaves and dirt. Use the trees along the side of the trail to keep yourself steady as you make your way down. Walking poles can also help to keep your balance for this section.
At the bottom of the steepest part of the syphon track, you will meet Plains Rivulet. Hop across the rocks and continue to the trail on the other side.
After walking a short distance, a rough track will appear off to your right leading down to Northwest Bay River.
Conditions
The trail is very steep, and is often wet, which can be extremely slippery.
While conditions may be fine at the outset of your walk, weather conditions within in this section of the park can change rapidly, potentially bringing high winds, rain, and snow, even during 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.
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 Southeast districts.
For up to date weather forecasting on Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, refer to: http://www.bom.gov.au/tas/forecasts/mtwellington.shtml
Safety advice
Ensure you are appropriately prepared for mountain weather conditions, and have warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy walking boots, a map, compass, food and water. Attempting walks in this region without adequate preparation is extremely dangerous and may lead to hypothermia and death.
There are sections of the trail where you may have limited access to mobile service, and it is recommended that walkers carry an emergency beacon device such as a PLB or EPIRB as well as let at least two people know which hike they are completing in case of an emergency.
This is a very steep trail, and walking poles are highly recommended.
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 track is not suitable for children.
Location
Pipeline Track, Wellington Park Tasmania 7054, Australia
The Siphon Track begins on the Pipeline Track adjacent to the Wellington Falls Lookout Track, and can either be accessed on foot or by bike. There is a bike rack at the top of the Siphon Track.