This is a steep hike which requires a medium level of fitness to complete.
Towering 880 meters over Hobart's western edge within Wellington Park, Cathedral Rock beckons adventurous hikers with its promise of stunning vistas. This challenging trek is not for the faint of heart, but the payoff is more than worth the effort.
The journey begins with a pleasant stroll through lush, wet forest alongside the boulder-strewn North West Bay River. But soon, the gentle riverside walk transforms into a heart-pounding ascent. The official trail leads inland for a short stretch before rejoining the river and its dense cloak of giant ferns.
Here, the path merges with a steep fire trail that winds its way upwards for 3.5 kilometers. After conquering the switchbacks, you'll reach a saddle offering a brief respite before the real challenge begins.
The final ascent to Cathedral Rock's peak is a short but demanding scramble over rocky terrain. But the effort is quickly forgotten as you reach the summit and are greeted by an unparalleled panorama. From this vantage point, drink in the expansive view of southern Tasmania, encompassing the verdant Huon Valley and the D'Entrecasteaux Channel. Here, amidst the pristine wilderness, you'll truly understand the essence of Tasmania's natural splendor.
The descent follows the same path, rewarding you with a final lungful of cool, fresh air before returning you to the trailhead, a convenient 30-minute drive from Hobart CBD.
Image and GPX file contributed by Tim Slingsby
Be Prepared for Adventure:
- Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the final rocky climb, which can be slippery when wet.
- Pack layers and a raincoat. The weather can change quickly at higher elevations, and the summit is exposed.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy levels high.
- Always inform someone of your hiking plans and bring a basic first-aid kit just in case.
Know Before You Go:
- While rare, snakes have been spotted in Wellington Park. All Tasmanian snakes are venomous. Give them a wide berth and avoid provoking them. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention.
- The trail includes narrow sections, steep climbs, and loose riverbed pebbles. Be sure-footed and keep a close eye on children.
- Parking is limited at the trailhead, so plan to arrive early.
Total distance: 8249 m
Max elevation: 797 m
Min elevation: 278 m
Total climbing: 674 m
Total descent: -674 m
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The adventure to Cathedral Rock begins just outside Hobart! Head south on Davey Street (A6) for about 9 kilometers past the suburb of Fern Tree. Keep an eye out for Betts Road on your right.
Follow Betts Road for roughly 1 kilometer, crossing a stream along the way. You'll find the carpark conveniently located at the end of the road. The entire drive from Hobart CBD is a breeze, taking only 30 minutes and covering approximately 23 kilometers.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
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.
Wellington Park is an 18,011 reserve located on the doorstep of nipaluna / Hobart in southern lutruwita / Tasmania. The Park stretches west from the 1271m summit of kunanyi / Mount Wellington and includes spectacular lookouts, dramatic cliff faces, boulder fields, waterfalls, fern glades and amazing dolerite rock formations.
kunanyi / Mount Wellington is accessible to walkers via a network of recreational trails, shuttle bus from the Hobart waterfront or by car or bike on a sealed but winding road to the summit (the Pinnacle), noting that car parking in the Park is limited. The road may be closed due to ice and snow - check the Pinnacle Rd Status on the City of Hobart or Wellington Park Management Trust website before departing. Be prepared for extreme and changeable weather.
Lookouts and observation decks at the Pinnacle provide spectacular views over Hobart towards the east coast, to the west over the World Heritage Area of southern Tasmania, and to the south towards Bruny Island. Parking and toilet facilities are available.
The Park supports a network of tracks for walking, running, mountain bike riding, horse riding (permit required) and recreational 4WDs (permit required). Popular locations in the Park include The Springs picnic area and Lost Freight Cafe, Cathedral Rock, Myrtle Forest picnic area, the Octopus Tree, Sphinx Rock, the Organ Pipes and Glenorchy Mountain Bike Park.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Wellington Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
