Hike to the Three Capes

One of the newer but extremely popular hiking spots located on the southeastern coast of Tasmania is the Three Capes Walk. This 48-kilometer track opened only three years ago but it already attracted numerous adventurous travelers who want to experience the beauty of unspoiled natural wonders.

This multi-day hike is easy-to-medium difficulty with smooth trails and nice accommodation along the way, so you can enjoy the views of the amazing cliffs and the vast ocean without overexerting yourself. If this is the kind of adventure you’re looking for, read on to learn about the details of the Three Capes Walk.

The general itinerary

The first destination of your tour is going to be Cape Raoul. On this medium grade walk, you can experience the lushness of eucalypt forests before arriving at the cape that towers hundreds of meters above the sea, giving you a great view of the southern capes, the nearby Tasman Island and even Bruny Island. You might even get to see some of the amazing animals that inhabit the region, such as seal colonies.

After a good night’s rest, the adventure continues, this time requiring a good level of fitness; however, you can choose the easier option of the tour if you think a nine-hour walk (with breaks) would be too much for you. The route begins at Waterfall Bay, where an impressive, 200-meter high waterfall already sets the tone for the day. The route then leads you through stringybark forests and rainforests all the way up to Tatnells Hill. Along the way, you can expect to see some amazing views of the coastline. The second day ends with reaching Fortescue Bay, which is also home to penguin colonies.

The third day involves some of the best views you’ll likely see in your life. A moderate level walk leads you through a heathland area all the way to Cape Hauy, which is known for the breathtaking rock formations along the coastline, named Totem Pole, Candlestick and the Lanterns. These are considered to be some of the most impressive must-see wonders in all of Tasmania. Moreover, as the region is very rich in bird species, you will certainly see some of the beautiful species that inhabit the island. Finally, at the end of your trip, you will also get a great view of the third cape, Cape Pillar from sea level while taking a cruise around its base in the afternoon.

Seasons

You can base your Tasmanian trip around these seasonal highlights:

Spring (Sep - Nov):  migrating whales. coastal heath in flower

Summer (Dec – Feb):  music festivals and food/wine festivals such as MONA FOMA, Falls Festival and Taste of Tasmania.

Autumn (March – May): migrating whales, orchids flowering

Winter (June – August): Acacia trees in bloom

Things you will need

Depending on what kind of tour you signed up for, the things you will need vary. If your choice is a comfortable pack-free tour of the Three Capes Walk, you don’t have to worry about big backpacks. The same goes for your meals and your national park entry fee – the package has got you covered. What you should carry in your day pack is:

• a bottle of water

• your camera to make sure you capture all the beautiful sights

• a jacket with hood (waterproof, windproof, breathable)  – the weather is rather windy

• hiking shoes or boots 
  

• sunglasses

• gloves

This track is perfect for more experienced and beginner hikers alike; the region is so breathtaking that you will surely want to return to explore more of Tasmania.