Trail Fast Facts

Kaoota Tramway is a 12.5km, grade 3 hike in Kaoota, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 3 hours to complete.

Length: 12.5km

Duration: 3 hrs

Grade 3 (Moderate)

Style: Return

Start: Lawless Road

End: Lawless Road

Location: Kaoota

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Margate

From state capital: 33.2km

Latitude: -43.0275139033808

Longitude: 147.20915257930758

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

Reviews

Weather

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Warning

This hike is classified as Grade 3 (Moderate) primarily due to its distance exceeding 10km. The terrain itself is relatively easy and suitable for most abilities. However, the longer distance requires some stamina. Feel free to turn back at any point for a shorter adventure.

Hike Overview

Explore the serene beauty of Tasmania's Kaoota Tramway walk, a delightful 12.5km journey nestled in Kaoota. Perfect for adventurers of all levels, this Grade 2 hike offers approximately 3 hours of scenic exploration.

Meander through diverse bushland, from the tranquil ambiance of dry eucalypt forests to the lush embrace of rainforests. Following a segment of the historic Kaoota Tramway, this gently graded track provides a picturesque route. Though much of the tramway now resides on private land, the council has curated 6 km for public enjoyment. Its ample width and gentle gradient are ideal for leisurely strolls or tandem bike rides.

Dating back to 1906, this 20 km long tramway once ferried coal from Kaoota's mines to Margate's bustling wharf. Over the years, its purpose evolved to transport logs, fruits, and even passengers. However, the tramway met its end in 1922, dismantled after bushfires ravaged several bridges. Along the trail, keen eyes may spy remnants of history, like railway sleepers, rusted rails, and remnants of coal spills, offering glimpses into Tasmania's industrial past.

For more information on this trail, visit Greater Hobart Trails

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

Kaoota Tramway Hike (12.5km)

Total distance: 12521 m
Max elevation: 455 m
Min elevation: 281 m
Total climbing: 403 m
Total descent: -403 m

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Trail Location (trailhead)

Getting there

Kaoota Tramway Hike (12.5km)

Kaoota Tramway track can be accessed from Lawless Road and Kaoota Road. For convenient access, follow Pelverata Road from Sandfly to reach the upper entrance of the track. Avoid the unsealed, narrow route from Allens Rivulet, notorious for its poor visibility. For an extended adventure, consider merging with the Nierinna Creek Track, accessible by walking down Lawless Road. Furthermore, the Margate Rivulet Track beckons nearby, promising additional exploration opportunities near the terminus of Nierinna Creek Track.

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Access conditions

Large Car Park

Photo gallery

Upload your photos

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

Kaoota is a small Tasmanian Rural Location within the local government area of Kingborough, it is located approximately 20kms from the capital Hobart.

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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.

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Reviews

Kaoota Tramway Hike (12.5km)

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