Trail Fast Facts
Summit Loop - Knocklofty Reserve is a 4km, grade 4 hike in Knocklofty Reserve, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 2 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Summit Loop in Knocklofty Reserve offers a fantastic 4 km, grade 4 hike through open forest, conveniently close to the city center. This trail is popular with dog walkers and bike riders.
The loop takes you past many of Knocklofty’s highlights. At the Frog Ponds, the Friends of Knocklofty Bushcare Group have transformed a disused dam into a vibrant wetland habitat. Pause here and listen for the diverse frog calls. Various vantage points along the walk provide stunning views of the city, kunanyi / Mount Wellington, and the Derwent estuary. With over 300 native plant species in this beloved reserve, there's always something in bloom.
This hike typically takes around 2 hours to complete, making it a perfect escape into nature without venturing far from the urban environment.
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 375 m
Min elevation: 209 m
Total climbing: 193 m
Total descent: -193 m
For more information on this trail, visit Greater Hobart Trails
Trail Location (trailhead)
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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
A couple of minutes walk from the city suburbs of West Hobart and Mt Stuart, you're in native bushland that spreads across the slopes and peak of Knocklofty.
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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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.