Trail Fast Facts
Charles Darwin Trail is a 12km, grade 3 hike in Bellerive, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 3 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
Embark on a journey retracing the footsteps of Charles Darwin during his historic visit to Hobart aboard the HMS Beagle in 1836. As you traverse this trail, immerse yourself in Darwin's observations, as depicted by interpretive signs based on his notes and experiences during his day excursion on Hobart’s eastern shore.
The trail begins along the picturesque Clarence Foreshore Trail, stretching between Bellerive and Howrah, before veering inland through local streets to Waverly Flora Park. From there, it loops back to Kangaroo Bay, offering a comprehensive exploration of the area.
Enjoy the coastal section, characterized by its flat terrain and mostly concrete paths, with gentle grades over Bellerive Bluff and Second Bluff. Stencils have been thoughtfully marked on footpaths between Howrah Beach and Waverly Flora Park to aid navigation. Once in Waverly Flora Park, the trail transitions to gravel paths, featuring some steeper sections for added adventure.
Kickstart your journey from the convenient starting point at the carpark located at the end of Cambridge Road, adjacent to the City Ferry, in Bellerive Village. Embark on a voyage of discovery, following in the footsteps of one of history's most renowned naturalists.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 162 m
Min elevation: 0 m
Total climbing: 224 m
Total descent: -217 m
For more information on this trail, visit Greater Hobart Trails
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Start at carpark at the end of Cambridge Road, at the City Ferry, in Bellerive Village.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Bellerive is a suburb of the City of Clarence, part of the greater Hobart area, Tasmania, Australia. It stretches from Kangaroo Bay where it borders Rosny Park, around the curved shoreline of Bellerive Esplanade to Kangaroo Bluff, then down to Bellerive Beach and east to Second Bluff, where Bellerive borders Howrah. To the north Bellerive is bordered by the small foothills of Waverly Flora Park.
Explore Safe
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.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
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
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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.