Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the stunning views atop The Nut, a 143-metre high massif in Stanley. This Grade 3, 2.9km circuit trail takes about 1.45 hours to complete, offering a moderate challenge for bushwalkers and hikers. Soak in the breath-taking vista of Bass Strait, either by following the scenic walking track or taking the unique chairlift to the top.

Length:

2.9km

Duration:

1.45 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 141m

Min elevation: 40m

Total Ascent: 236m

Start: The Nut Carpark

End: The Nut Carpark

The Nut State Reserve

Tasmania

Nearby town: Stanley

From state capital: 404km

Latitude: -40.76187

Longitude: 145.297827

Overview

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Gallery

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4,995 views

Hike overview

The Nut is a 143 metre high massif, rising from Bass Strait, that towers above the picturesque town of Stanley. You can reach the top by either walking track or chairlift.

Highlights

The historic village of Stanley, in far north-west Tasmania, is nestled at the base of the Nut, a sheer-sided bluff - all that remains of an ancient volcanic plug. A walking track climbs to the summit of the Nut, or you can take the chairlift, with its spectacular views across Bass Strait beaches and over the town. There is accommodation and an excellent campground in Stanley, and the town is a good base for exploring the forests and coastlines further west. See seals, penguins, sea birds and other wildlife close to Stanley local operators offer a range of observation tours.

The town was once the administrative centre for the Van Diemen's Land Company, a royal charter company, formed in 1824 during the reign of George IV.

Highfield House, an imposing Georgian home was once the VDL Managers' residence. It is open to the public and overlooks the town below.

Tips

Toilets and cafe at car park. Picnic, electric barbecue, toilets and disabled access toilets adjacent to nearby historic cemetery. Privately operated chairlift operates 7 days a week and caters for disabled visitors. (Chairlift closed late-June to late-August. Enquiries phone 6458 1286.)

Short and steep track to plateau. Circuit track around plateau is moderate.

10-20 minute walk to plateau, or you can take the chairlift. 1 hour circuit track around the Nut plateau. (2.3 km one way).

Supervise children, hazardous cliffs.

No pets, firearms or bicycles.

Gallery

The Nut Circuit Walk (2.9km)

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Walk map and GPX file

The Nut Circuit Walk (2.9km)

Total distance: 2896 m
Max elevation: 141 m
Min elevation: 40 m
Total climbing: 236 m
Total descent: -236 m

For more information about this hiking trail please visit Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: The Nut State Reserve.

To reach Stanley, turn off the Bass Highway (A2) 15 km east of Smithton.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Irishtown, Marrawah, Rocky Cape, Smithton, Stanley

About the region

The striking geological formation of The Nut in Stanley rises from Bass Strait and towers over the historic town in North-West Tasmania.

This iconic Tasmanian site is the core of a long-extinct volcano and its significance is protected as part of The Nut State Reserve. It is an integral part of the life and landscape of Stanley, and offers outstanding views over the town, across Bass Strait and towards Rocky Cape National Park.

This picturesque reserve is one of Stanley’s key attractions and is the ideal place for scenic viewing, walking, picnicking and nature study. Take the walking track to the summit of The Nut or hop aboard the chairlift and enjoy the panoramic views. Atop the summit, explore the plateau on foot via the scenic circuit walk.

The Nut State Reserve protects a nationally endangered straw daisy and provides an important breeding site for short-tailed shearwaters, peregrine falcons, Australian kestrels and little penguins. It also protects significant Tasmanian Aboriginal and historic sites, which are of deep significance to the Aboriginal community, both present and past.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near The Nut State Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews

The Nut Circuit Walk (2.9km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance