Trail summary
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.
Map and GPX file
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
Closest towns to this walk: Smithton, Stanley, Marrawah, Rocky Cape, Irishtown
To reach Stanley, turn off the Bass Highway (A2) 15 km east of Smithton.
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
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.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in The Nut State Reserve or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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
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.