Introduction
Located in the heart of the Dial Range in Tasmania’s northwest, the 4.2km return Mount Dial track is an enjoyable meander through picturesque wet and dry eucalypt forests. Intermittent views across Ulverstone and the state’s northern coast are offered from the Mount Gnomon and Mount Dial summits.
Getting There
View Google Map Directions |
From Devonport or Ulverstone, take the Bass Highway towards Penguin, taking the left-hand exit outside Penguin onto South Road, which quickly becomes Dial Road. After 850m, turn right onto Sports Complex Ave, following this to the junction with Ironcliffe Road and turning left. Follow Ironcliffe Road for 8.6km. After 7km, the road is unsealed. 1.7km after the unsealed section begins, you will meet a sweeping right-hand bend and the trail carpark. The trailhead is marked with signage.
The trailhead is also the starting point for several walks, including Mount Gnomon, Mount Montgomery, and Tall Trees. |
The Trail
Leaving the carpark, follow the marked track towards Mount Gnomon and Mount Dial. The trail rises steadily for the first 15-20 minutes of the walk, passing through wet eucalypt forest. This part of the trail is the steepest and most demanding section of the entire walk.
As you ascend, your surroundings change from wet to dry eucalypt forest. Once at the ridgeline, the track levels out and passes impressive moss-covered boulders before reaching the Mount Gnomon summit and Mount Dial junction.
The right-hand fork gently and quickly climbs to the summit of Mt Gnomon. There are several places here to sit and enjoy the views to the West, looking beyond Ulverstone towards Devonport. On a clear day, you will see Hawley Heads and Badger Heads in the distance. To the South, past Mount Duncan, you will see Mount Roland and Black Bluff in the distance.
Returning to the junction, the walk can be extended by continuing towards Mount Dial, 30 minutes away. Return to the trailhead via the same route.
Trail Map
Map for illustrative purposes only. Base map supplied by Land Information System Tasmania
Photos
View more Mount Dial and Mount Gnomon photos