Cape Hauy Hike Tasmania

Wander * Explore * Discover
Sep 30, 2021
3 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Cape Hauy Hike - Tasmania

Cape Hauy is one of Tasmania’s most breathtaking coastal walks, located on the rugged Tasman Peninsula in the southeast of the state. This dramatic stretch of coastline is renowned for its towering sea cliffs, hidden bays, and the deep blue waters of the Southern Ocean. The Cape Hauy Track is a highlight for hikers, offering sweeping coastal vistas, sheer cliff faces, and the chance to spot seabirds and unique coastal flora along the way. As part of our mission to complete all 60 of Tasmania’s Great Short Walks, we set out on a clear winter’s day in July to experience the spectacular views and sheer beauty of Cape Hauy for ourselves.

Note: Cape Hauy is pronounced ‘Cape Hoy’.

The Cape Hauy walk is one of the 60 Great

Short Walks of Tasmania

The Walk - 9.4 kilometres Return - 4 Hours - Grade 3

The track begins opposite the boat ramp near the Fortescue Bay camping area.

You walk across the bridge and follow the wide, well-constructed track for about 15 minutes, walking along the coastline with lovely views across Fortescue Bay.

Then the track heads inland and ascends steeply, and the steps begin. All the steep sections of the trail have steps; in fact, there are over 4,500 steps on the return track.

After about one kilometre of walking up through the dry woodland forest, you will reach a sign pointing to Cape Hauy. You will also see amazing views of the cape and the walking track etched into the hillside.

The track then descends, and the dry forest changes to coastal heathland and incredible panoramic views of Cape Hauy and the Tasman Peninsula.

You then continue along the track, going up and down the following two saddles before reaching the Cape Hauy Lookout.

After admiring Cape Hauy and the views, look over the edge and see the Totem Pole; this unique structure is a dolerite sea cliff. It is 65 metres high and only 4 metres wide, making it a tempting attraction for rock climbers.

Tips for Hiking Cape Hauy

• Use hiking poles if you have them: The trail includes many steps and uneven surfaces, so hiking poles can make the walk easier and more comfortable.

• Register your walk: For safety, make sure to register your hike at the information area near Fortescue Bay before you set off.

• Facilities at Fortescue Bay: Toilets, picnic tables, and BBQs are available at Fortescue Bay, making it a convenient spot to prepare before or relax after your hike.

• National Park Pass: A valid Tasmanian National Parks pass is required to access the trail. You can purchase a pass online or at the Fortescue Bay day-use area on the day of your visit.

• Safety first: Stay on the marked track at all times and take care near cliff edges. Conditions can change quickly, so check the weather before heading out and dress appropriately for the season.

Directions to Fortescue Bay, where the walk commences.

Drive along the Tasman Highway to Sorell from Hobart, then take the Arthur Highway to Taranna. Drive through Taranna along the highway for another 5km, and you will see Fortescue Road on the left-hand side.

Follow this dirt road for the next 12km until you reach the Tasman National Park and Fortescue Bay. This road is unsealed and suitable for 2 WD but drives carefully. It is very slippery when wet.

Camping at the Mill Creek Campground at Fortescue Bay.

We stayed in our Motorhome at the Mill Creek Campground; it has about 23 larger sites suitable for camper vans and motorhomes. Toilets and coin-operated showers are available, and there are BBQs at the day-use area, a short walk away.

There is an excellent variety of wildlife and birds at Fortescue Bay, making it a bird watcher's and a photographer's paradise.

Bookings are recommended from November to April each year. There is also tent camping available at the Banksia Mill Campground.