Introduction
Note: Since the introduction of the Three Capes Walk the information provided here is no longer correct and the track is no longer accessable. As such, this here primarily as historical documentation.
Hidden away on a seemingly forgotten section of the Tasman Peninsula, Arthur’s Peak stands solemn. Reached via the Cape Pillar track from Fortescue Bay, the rough, overgrown and in some cases, the nonexistent trail takes 8km over lush button grass plains, before climbing to Arthurs Peak. From here you will be rewarded with a secluded and superb view of Crescent Bay to the west and the phenomenal dolomite cliffs of Cape Pillar to the east.
This is a challenging walk.
Getting There
View Google Map Directions |
From Hobart head over the Tasman Bridge and continue on the Arthurs Highway (A9), turning right at the main intersection in Sorell (sign for Tasmanian Peninsula). Continue towards Port Arthur, taking the first left after the Tasmanian Devil Park, onto Fortescue Bay Road. This 12km gravel road leads to the Fortescue Bay camping area. The Arthurs Peak trail begins 200m back before the Rangers Office on the Cape Pillar Track. |
The Trail
Heading inland along Cape Pillar track, beginning just before the Fortescue Bay campgrounds, you are immediately sheltered by the impressive forests of the Tasman Penisula. Continue a steady climb south along the Cape Pillar heathlands, opening up into lovely dry sclerophyll forests. Just over an hour later, you will hopefully discover the Arthurs Peak junction, now unmarked on your righthand side.
After turning right at the junction the track soon diminishes into not much more than a wombat track, signposted by tape markers. The terrain breaks up into a small plain of button grass which is easily followed. A small but sometimes boggy section of Denman’s creek, shadowed by forested hills is crossed next before opening to a gorgeously vast button grass plain. Note of warning; wear pants.
The looming presence of Crescent Mount follows you to the south-east as you work your way through plains and scrub. The track may be hard to follow (or non-existent) for the next few kilometres, though experienced walkers will have no difficulty beating their own path towards Arthurs Peak, now directly ahead of you.
After the dredging meander through the thick button grass plains to the foot of Arthurs Peak you are presented with a lightly marked climb to the top. The climb is open and easily scaled through the lower sections before joining on to the newly constructed section of the Three Capes Walk.
From the top Crescent Beach and Mount Brown are directly ahead with Cape Raoul and Bruny Island further off in the distance. To the east of you, lines of cliffs drop into the ocean towards Cape Pillar.
Arthurs Peak is an extremely enjoyable walk but in no means an easy one. The poor condition on the trail can make it troublesome for novice and intermediate hikers. The flip side of this, however, you will most likely have the beautiful view, and hike, all to yourselves!
Photos
