Introduction
Offering a plethora of different landscapes to discover and explore, the 12km return Cape Queen Elizabeth Trail is a great Bruny Island day walk. Walkers can expect brilliant views of The Neck and Adventure Bay as well as stunningly secluded beaches and unique rock formations. At low tide the trail leads around the coast below Mars Bluff, allowing for a shorter and more exciting route.
Getting There
| View Google Map Directions | * A ferry crossing is needed to access Bruny Island. From Hobart head south along the Southern Outlet (A6) for 10km. Take the right hand lane at the Kingston Bypass and continue on for 2km before taking the 4th exit to Channel Highway (B68) at the roundabout. Continue for 18km, taking a left hand turn onto Ferry Road just outside of Kettering. Take the 30 minute ferry to Bruny Island, details can be found here.Once on Bruny Island, follow the Main Road (B66) for 20km. The walk commences from the car park directly adjacent to the Bruny Island airstrip |
The Trail
The trail leads directly to the coast from the carpark via an unused 4WD track running parallel to the Bruny Island airstrip. This initial part of the walk is flat and well maintained. Big Lagoon, home to a large number of water birds and Little Lagoon are passed next before the trail opens up onto lengthy coastline of Neck Beach below Mars Bluff. During low tides, Miles Beach can be directly accessed by skirting the coast below Mars Bluff. Following this route, the walk can be done as a circuit but be sure to only attempt this at the lowest tides. Alternatively, head back via the trail 50 metres and take the junction to the right climbing to the apex of Mars Bluff. From the top of the Bluff, tremendous views showcase the unique beauty of The Neck and the Fluted Capes further off. The trail then descends through coastal dunes to the secluded Miles Beach. After taking some time to explore the impressive dolerite rock formations below Mars Bluff the trail continues to Cape Queen Elizabeth from the eastern end of Miles Beach. The trail climbs again through coastal health before opening out onto Cape Queen Elizabeth. From here excellent views of Adventure Bay and the Capes are presented again. Return via the same track or beach (depending on the tide).
Trail Map
Map for illustrative purposes only. Base map supplied by Land Information System Tasmania
Photos
View more Cape Queen Elizabeth photos
Hazards and Warnings
There are many steep cliff faces along Mars Bluff, take care when nearing edges. Be sure to check tides if planning the shorter route.