Cape Hauy Track

National Park entry fees apply.

Take the Arthur Highway and head towards Port Arthur. Approximately 4km after passing through the township of Taranna (and 4km before Port Arthur) turn left at the Tasman National Park/ Fortescue Bay signposted turnoff. A 12km gravel road leads through state forest to the Tasman National Park and Fortescue Bay camping area.

Park in the day parking area and remember to sign in at the walker registration shelter.

The Cape Hauy (pronounced ‘Hoy’) Track begins at Fortescue Bay, just near the boat ramp and heads east following the shoreline via a deceptively easy, wide and well-constructed track. After about 20 minutes, the trail begins to climb and head inland. From here on there are steps up and down all the steeper bits of the walk – there are over 4,500 stair steps in the return walk!

The track continues upwards with some relatively flat woodland and scrubland areas bringing respite from the stairs. About half way into the walk a sign points to the turn off to Cape Pillar. Continue past on the left hand side of the sign. At this point the track begins to descend and the dry sclerophyll forest gives way to coastal heathland and spectacular panoramic views of the Tasman Peninsula coast and Cape Hauy, with the upcoming ascending stair trail clearly etched into the hillside.

Unseen from this point are the final sets of steep descending and ascending stairs to the lookout and end of the walk – a warning sign re unprotected cliff edges indicates that the end of the track is nigh.

This a demanding but exhilarating walk – a walking pole is helpful!

The walk is easily accomplished in 4 hours or less for the fit. Allow extra time for rest stops.