Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cape Hauy on this challenging 9.3km return hike located in the Tasman National Park, Tasmania. Ideal for experienced bushwalkers, this Grade 4 (Hard) trail offers stunning vistas of the Tasman Peninsula and Pirates Bay, with the trailhead starting from Fortescue Bay. Don't forget to take a short detour for an amazing view at the Pirates Bay lookout near Eaglehawk Neck.

Length:

9.3km

Duration:

3.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 180m

Min elevation: 12m

Total Ascent: 550m

Start: Fortescue Bay Campground

End: Fortescue Bay Campground

Tasman National Park

Tasmania

Nearby town: Port Arthur

From state capital: 100km

Latitude: -43.141904

Longitude: 147.967384

Overview

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Hike overview

You can get a great view of Cape Hauy in the spectacular Tasman National Park as you travel to the Tasman Peninsula. To get this view, make a short detour, from the Arthur Highway (A9), to the Pirates Bay lookout just before Eaglehawk Neck. The walk to Cape Hauy leaves from Fortescue Bay 15km further south.

Highlights

The Cape Hauy Track leads from Fortescue Bay, just near the boat ramp. The walk passes through a variety of heath and woodland before coming to the magnificent views of steep cliffs and rock formations.

The spectacular dolerite columns and cliffs at Cape Hauy are popular areas for climbing and abseiling. Sea stacks, the "Candlestick" and "Totem Pole" at Cape Hauy are used by climbers and are not, you may be pleased to know, a part of this short walk!

Tips

Park entry fees apply.

Camping, boat ramp, drinking water, picnic and toilet facilities available at Fortescue Bay.

Supervise children, unpatrolled beach, unprotected track edges.

No pets, firearms or bicycles.

Trail features

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Walk map and GPX file
Cape Hauy Walk (9.3km)

Total distance: 9422 m
Max elevation: 180 m
Min elevation: 12 m
Total climbing: 550 m
Total descent: -550 m

For more information about this hiking trail please visit Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Tasman National Park.

Arthur Highway (A9) to junction with Fortescue Bay road (C344) which is 4km south of Taranna and 4km north of Port Arthur. Turn into C344 and drive 12km to Fortescue Bay. (This road is unsealed but is suitable for 2WD vehicles and mountain bikes).

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

Access conditions

2WD Access
Entry Fee

About the region

Tasman National Park is a wild, yet accessible park of tall forests and a truly spectacular coastline. Waters from the Southern Ocean collide with the towering sea cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula, creating spectacular rock formations, including caves and arches. The coastal vegetation grows precariously close to the edges of the cliffs, creating a blanket of green that contrasts with the surging surf below. Australia's highest sea cliffs have walkers on the award-winning, multi-day Three Capes Track in awe. Day walkers can also discover a slice of this beauty high atop the cliffs on shorter coastal walks at Cape Hauy, Cape Raoul and the world-famous big wave mecca, Shipsterns Bluff.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Dunalley, Eaglehawk Neck, Nubeena, Port Arthur, Sorell, Taranna

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Tasman National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Reviews
Cape Hauy Walk (9.3km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance