Best Hobart Hikes & Walks
Hobart might be a small city, but it’s surrounded by landscapes that make it feel like an outdoor playground. Within minutes of the city centre, you can be on a bush track, following a creek through cool fern gullies, or standing on a clifftop with sweeping views over the River Derwent. For locals, these walks are part of everyday life. For visitors, they’re a reminder of how close wilderness and city living are in Tasmania.
If you’re hiring a car in Hobart, it’s easy to pack a day with adventure. Hobart visitors can access some trails right on the city’s edge, while others are easily reached by a short car ride. With so many options, it can be tricky to know where to start, so we’ve narrowed it down to five of the best hikes near Hobart. Each one has its own character, from family-friendly strolls to leg-burning climbs that reward you with views from the top.
So lace up your boots, fill a water bottle, and let’s dive into Hobart’s best hikes and walking trails.
#1
Organ Pipes Circuit — kunanyi / Mount Wellington
If you are looking for one of the most iconic hikes near Hobart, the Organ Pipes Circuit on kunanyi / Mount Wellington should be at the top of your list. This trail is a favourite for both locals and visitors because it combines alpine scenery with panoramic views, all within a short drive of the city.
Why is it famous:
Kunanyi / Mount Wellington dominates Hobart’s skyline, and the Organ Pipes Circuit is one of the most memorable ways to explore it. The dolerite cliffs that tower above Hobart were shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago, giving them their dramatic, pipe-like appearance. Climbers travel from all over Australia to scale them, and hikers love the way the track hugs the cliffs, opening up to breathtaking views across the River Derwent and the suburbs below. The Organ Pipes Circuit offers more than dramatic rock formations; it also passes through alpine vegetation, forested gullies, and open lookouts. The walk takes you through alpine vegetation, forested gullies, and open areas where you can watch the weather roll in. From the Organ Pipes Circuit on a clear day, hikers can see as far as Bruny Island and the Tasman Peninsula.
Difficulty: Moderate. Grade 3
- Location: Mount Wellington
- Length: 7.4 kilometres return
- Grade: 3 (suitable for most ages and fitness levels)
- Elevation Gain: 400 metres
- Distance from: Hobart - 15 km, Launceston - 216 km, Devonport 297 km
- Starting point: The Springs, Wellington Park
Special tips:
- The weather on kunanyi changes quickly. Even if the city is sunny, it can be misty and cold on the mountain, so always carry a warm layer and a rain jacket.
- Snow is common in winter and early spring, which makes the walk magical but slippery. If you visit in these seasons, give yourself more time and tread carefully.
- There is parking at The Springs, which is about a 20-minute drive from Hobart’s centre. The drive itself is scenic, winding through eucalypt forest with plenty of lookout stops.
- The walk is a loop, so you will return to where you started, which makes planning easy.
- Start early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and softer light if you want good photos.
- Carry a water bottle, as there are no taps or facilities along this section of kunanyi.
- If you are combining this with other Hobart hikes, The Springs has multiple trailheads, making it a good base.
This is one of the top hiking trails in Hobart for anyone who wants alpine scenery without spending the whole day climbing. It is ideal for visitors with limited time who still want to feel like they have stepped into Tasmania’s wild side. Photographers love the golden light at sunset when the cliffs glow orange and purple.
#2
Pipeline Track (Waterworks ↔ Fern Tree ↔ Neika)
For a walk that is mostly flat, shady, and filled with history, the Pipeline Track is one of the best bushwalks Hobart offers. It is perfect for families, runners, and anyone who wants an easy stroll through the forest without leaving the city far behind.
Starting location: Fern Tree Park.
Why is it famous:
The Pipeline Track is one of the most accessible Hobart walking tracks and is often described as one of the best bushwalks in Hobart for families. Built in the 1860s to service the city’s water supply, it follows the old pipeline through shady forest. The track is wide and mostly flat, which makes it perfect for prams, bikes, and anyone who wants a relaxing walk rather than a strenuous climb. Despite its gentle nature, it is filled with history and charm. Old stone aqueducts and moss-covered walls remind you of its heritage, while birds and small animals add life to the forest.
Difficulty: Easy. Grade 2
From Waterworks Reserve to Fern Tree is about 4 kilometres one way, usually walked in just over an hour. Continue to Neika if you want a longer half-day outing. The track is shaded, with very little elevation gain.
Special tips:
- Start at Waterworks Reserve, which has picnic areas, barbecues, and toilets. It is a great spot for families to enjoy lunch after the walk.
- From Fern Tree, you can connect to other Hobart walking tracks, such as Silver Falls, for a slightly longer outing.
- The track is dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a lead. This makes it one of the few hikes near Hobart where pets are welcome.
- Because the forest canopy keeps it cool, this is one of the best short walks Hobart during hot weather.
- The track is wide and well-maintained, so it is pram-friendly and kid-friendly, which is ideal for families with young children.
- Weekends can get busy with locals, so if you want a quiet walk, try early mornings or weekdays.
- Look out for native birds such as green rosellas and black currawongs, which are often seen along the track.
- Stop by the Fern Tree Tavern at the end of your hike and reward yourself with a drink or a meal in a cosy Hobart institution.
The Pipeline Track suits almost everyone, from casual walkers to families and runners. It is popular with runners, families, and older walkers who want an easy stroll in nature. Unlike many Hobart hikes, the Pipeline Track is both pram-friendly and kid-friendly. If you want to know where to hike in Hobart without needing high fitness, this is a top choice.
#3
Zig Zag Track to the Pinnacle (Summit Route)
When you are in need of a Hobart hike that will challenge your legs and provide a reward to one of the best views in Tasmania, then visit the Zig Zag Track. The climb to the top of kunanyi / Mount Wellington is challenging, steep and exposed, but it is not one to forget.
Why is it famous:
The Zig Zag Track is one of the most challenging day hikes in Hobart and is perfect if you want to climb kunanyi on foot instead of driving. Starting from The Springs, the track climbs steeply through rocky terrain, zigzagging across scree slopes and exposed ridges until it reaches the Pinnacle. The feeling of standing at the summit after a hard climb is something special, and the 360-degree view makes every step worthwhile. You will see the city spread out beneath you, the River Derwent winding its way to the sea, and on a clear day, distant islands and peninsulas along the coast.
Difficulty: Hard. Grade 4.
The return distance is about 9 kilometres, and it usually takes 3 to 4 hours. The elevation gain is close to 500 metres, which makes it steep and demanding. The trail is rocky, uneven, and exposed to the weather.
Starting point: The Springs at Wellington Park
Special tips:
- Give yourself at least half a day for this hike, especially if you like to stop for photos. It is one of the most rewarding day hikes Hobart has to offer.
- Carry enough water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the way.
- In summer, start early to avoid walking in the midday heat. In winter, expect icy patches and pack gloves, a hat, and sturdy footwear.
- This is an out-and-back track, so you will return the same way. Keep in mind that steep descents can be hard on knees.
- Weather at the summit can be much colder than in the city, so dress in layers.
- Hikers will find several lookout points along the Zig Zag Track, ideal for resting and enjoying sweeping views over Hobart.
- If you are not confident descending on foot, you can arrange to be picked up at the Pinnacle car park and make this a one-way climb.
The Zig Zag Track is one of the top hiking trails Hobart for those who want a real challenge. It is not for everyone, but if you like steep climbs and the reward of unbeatable views, this hike will leave you with lasting memories. Sunrise and sunset from the Pinnacle are spectacular, with the city lights twinkling far below.
#4
Truganini Track to Mt Nelson Signal Station
For a shorter but still rewarding walk, the Truganini Track is one of the best short walks in Hobart. It combines a workout with a dose of local history, and the coastal views from the Mt Nelson Signal Station are stunning.
Why is it famous:
The Truganini Track is a short but steep bushwalk that combines history with natural beauty. Beginning near Sandy Bay, the track climbs steadily through eucalypt forest before reaching the Mt Nelson Signal Station. Built in 1811, the station was part of Tasmania’s first communication system, using semaphore signals to pass messages between Hobart and Port Arthur. Today, it is a peaceful lookout with sweeping coastal views and a café where you can relax.
Difficulty: Moderate. Grade 3
The track is around 3 kilometres return and takes about an hour each way. It is short but steep, with a lot of steps.
Starting point: Cartwright Reserve on Sandy Bay Road.
Special tips:
- Sunscreen and water are essential, as parts of the track are exposed and can get hot in summer.
- The café at the top is worth a stop, with good coffee and snacks to refuel before heading back down.
- The track is an out-and-back route, so you will return the same way. Allow about two hours return.
- Because it is steep with a lot of steps, walking poles may help on the way down.
- Though short, the Truganini Track is steep and physically demanding, best suited to walkers comfortable with continuous climbs.
- Signal Station lookout is quite pretty when the sun is going down. You may wish to go there in the afternoon to see the golden light.
- There is a lack of parking facilities at the trailhead. It is better to come early or by bus to Sandy Bay in case you do not have a car.
This is one of the best short walks in Hobart for visitors who want a hike with both exercise and history. It is perfect for a morning or afternoon, and the views over the River Derwent are some of the most rewarding for such a short climb.
#5
Hobart Rivulet Track (City ↔ Cascades)
The Hobart Rivulet Track is among the least challenging and most frequented tracks in Hobart in case you are looking to have a social and easy walk. It is an excellent exercise to stretch your legs, and have fun in the nature and end with a trip to the Cascade Brewery.
Why it is famous:
The Hobart Rivulet Track is a flat, shaded path that links the city centre to the historic Cascade Brewery. Following the rivulet through leafy bushland, this walk is one of the most popular Hobart walking trails for both locals and visitors. Along the way you might see ducks, wallabies, and even a platypus.
Difficulty: Easy. Grade 2
The track is about 3 kilometres one way, so a return walk takes around 2 hours. With almost no elevation gain, it is suitable for all ages and abilities.
Starting point: Hamlet Cafe, Hobart
Special tips:
- Start near Molle Street in the city and follow the rivulet upstream to Cascade Brewery. The Hobart Rivulet Track is a gentle, well-signed path that makes navigation simple, even for first-time visitors.
- The brewery has tours, tastings, and beautiful gardens, which make a great reward at the end of your walk.
- The track is pram-friendly and dog-friendly, making it one of the most versatile Hobart walking trails for families and pet owners.
- If you are short on time, you can walk part of the track and then turn back. It is flexible, so you can make it as short or long as you like.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife. Platypus are sometimes seen in the rivulet, especially in the early morning.
- The track is well-used by joggers and cyclists, so stay to the left if you are walking.
- This is one of the best short walks in Hobart to combine exercise with history, since the track finishes at one of Tasmania’s most famous breweries.
This walk is a local favourite because it is so easy to fit into everyday life. The Hobart Rivulet Track lets visitors enjoy nature while ending at one of Hobart’s most iconic attractions, the Cascade Brewery.
What are you waiting for?
Hobart is spoiled for choice when it comes to hiking. You can be on a mountain track, by a river, or in the middle of tall forest just minutes after leaving the city. For anyone asking where to hike in Hobart, the answer is simple. Start with these five trails and you will see why Hobart walking tracks are some of the most rewarding in Tasmania.
Remember that Australia uses a five-level grading system to describe the difficulty and suitability of walking tracks. The grades help walkers choose routes that match their fitness, experience and equipment. You can find some of this equipment with our camping gear hire.
- Grade 1: No bushwalking experience required. Flat even surface with no steps or steep sections. Suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them.
- Grade 2: Suitable for most ages. The track has a hardened or compacted surface that may have a gentle hill section or sections, and occasional steps.
- Grade 3: Some bushwalking experience recommended. Tracks may have short steep hill sections, a rough surface and many steps.
- Grade 4: Bushwalking experience recommended. Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signage may be limited.
- Grade 5: Only suitable for very experienced bushwalkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep and unmarked.
When renting a car in Hobart, you’ll have the flexibility to explore Hobart’s walking trails and beyond. From sunrise walks at the summit to relaxed riverside strolls, you can set your own pace and discover Tasmania the way it should be: outdoors, unhurried, and unforgettable.
Not just here for the hikes? Hobart’s got plenty going on beyond the walking tracks. Check out our local picks in Top Things to Do in Hobart, from food and history to waterfront spots worth lingering at, it’s a solid way to round out your trip.
Your Hobart Adventure Awaits!
That’s our list of the top 5 best Hobart hikes to experience in your Hobart adventure.
The beauty of this city is how much it offers in such a compact space. Hiring a car in Hobart gives you the flexibility to take the scenic route, linger in the places you love, and find your own version of Tasmania. And at Alice Car Rental, that’s exactly what we’re here for. We are here to help you explore this island your way, with honest service and local know-how to back you up.
