Trail summary
Safety advice
This hike is classified as Grade 3 (Moderate) due to its distance exceeding 10km. While the terrain itself is relatively easy and may be suitable for all abilities, the long distance requires a greater level of fitness and preparation. Feel free to turn back at any point for a shorter adventure.
Hike overview
Discover the picturesque Clarence Foreshore Trail, a versatile multi-user pathway tracing the scenic shores of the Derwent River. Stretching from Geilston Bay to Howrah, this 15 km, grade 1 hike in Geilston Bay, Tasmania, promises an enriching journey lasting approximately 7 hours.
Immerse yourself in a diverse array of landscapes, from serene bays adorned with moored yachts to tranquil she-oak forests and expansive parklands. Along the way, encounter playgrounds, inviting beaches, and captivating points of interest, ensuring a rewarding experience for all adventurers.
While the trail offers a mix of wide concrete paths and narrow gravel sections, be prepared for variations in path quality. Some sections, including the track along the foreshore at Geilston Bay, feature intertidal tracks, which may present challenges. Alternatively, consider utilizing Musgrove Ave and Derwent Ave to bypass this segment, though note that the ascent is steep.
Embark on your journey from either the carpark at Debomfords Lane in Geilston Bay or Howrah Road in Howrah (opposite Bingley Street), and prepare for an unforgettable exploration of Tasmania's stunning waterfront.
Tips
Several sections are narrow and have a lower quality surface including the track along the foreshore at Geilston Bay (an alternative is to use Musgrove Ave and Derwent Ave to bypass this section, although the hill is steep). Rosny Hill has a steep section around the sewerage works.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 32 m
Min elevation: 0 m
Total climbing: 96 m
Total descent: -94 m
Getting there
Start at either the carpark at DeBomfords Lane in Geilston Bay or Howrah Rd, Howrah (opposite Bingley St).
Photo gallery
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.
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.
About the region
Geilston Bay is a suburb of Hobart between Risdon Vale, Shag Bay, and Lindisfarne, in the City of Clarence located on the Eastern Shore of the Derwent River.
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Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Geilston Bay 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.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
Weather
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.