Walkers should always be well prepared before setting out in Tasmania’s parks. Check the conditions, carry suitable equipment, let someone know your plans, and be ready to adjust them if the weather changes.
Tucked within the lush Ferndene State Reserve near Penguin in Tasmania’s north-west, Thorsbys Tunnel offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s mining past. This 1.5 kilometre Grade 3 return walk takes around an hour to complete, weaving through a cool, shaded landscape of towering tree ferns and moss-covered rocks. The trail follows a gentle climb of about 30 metres over 750 metres, making it a pleasant yet engaging route for those with some bushwalking experience.
As you wander along the creek, the remnants of the late 19th century mining era begin to reveal themselves. The area was once dotted with mining leases after valuable minerals such as silver and copper were discovered around Penguin. Although the operations were eventually abandoned due to limited profitability, the tunnels they left behind remain as quiet reminders of that time. Both Brownings and Thorsbys Tunnels can be explored with care, but visitors should note that these are unmaintained historic structures with uneven, slippery surfaces and no lighting.
Today, the reserve has transformed from an industrial site into a peaceful pocket of native bushland. The air is cool and earthy, filled with the sounds of a burbling creek and the calls of woodland birds. Wallabies sometimes dart through the undergrowth, pausing among the ferns where sunlight filters softly through the canopy. It’s a short walk rich in atmosphere, offering both natural beauty and a tangible sense of history that makes it well worth exploring.
- The Thorsbys Tunnel walk is located within Ferndene State Reserve.
- Campfires are not permitted anywhere in the reserve.
- Dogs, horses, and motorbikes are prohibited to protect the environment and wildlife.
- Toilets and a sheltered picnic area are available near the car park.
- Non-potable water is provided at the toilet facilities, so remember to bring your own drinking water.
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.
Total distance: 1552 m
Max elevation: 138 m
Min elevation: 83 m
Total climbing: 77 m
Total descent: -77 m
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Main image: Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service
Getting to the trailhead: Ferndene State Reserve.
Thorsbys Tunnel is easy to reach, located just 15 minutes from Ulverstone (about 17 kilometres away). From town, head west on the A1 Bass Highway towards Burnie and take the South Road exit to Penguin. Turn onto Sports Complex Avenue, then left onto Ironcliffe Road, following it for around 4.6 kilometres until you arrive at Ferndene State Reserve. There is limited parking at the reserve, so plan accordingly. It’s best to avoid driving through the area at night, as native wildlife often crosses the roads, take it slow and stay alert for animals along the way.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Dial Range Reserves
Tucked away in northwest Tasmania, just south of the coastal town of Penguin, the Dial Range Reserves span a rugged 52 square kilometres of diverse terrain. This striking landscape tells a geological story of ancient volcanic activity and sedimentary processes later reshaped by early mining efforts. The result is a dramatic mix of peaks and valleys, with Mount Gnomon standing out on the northern skyline. Walkers can explore a wide variety of trails that wind through forests, over ridgelines, and across rocky slopes, revealing ever-changing views and vegetation shaped by altitude, aspect, and soil type.
The range offers something for everyone, from gentle forest walks to steep climbs that lead to panoramic coastal and inland views. Trails transition through dry eucalypt forests, damp gullies filled with swamp gums and blackwoods, and heathlands that come alive with colour in spring. Popular peaks such as Mount Dial, Mount Montgomery, and Mount Duncan provide unique vantage points, while shared paths also cater to trail runners and mountain bikers. Whether you’re after a short stroll or a challenging full-day hike, the Dial Range Reserves promise a rewarding experience rich in natural beauty and variety.
Ferndene State Reserve
Tucked into the foothills of the Dial Range, just six kilometres south of Penguin in northwest Tasmania, Ferndene State Reserve is a tranquil rainforest retreat where natural beauty meets local history. Covering a compact 35 hectares, the reserve offers a network of shaded walking tracks that follow McBrides Creek through cool, fern-lined gullies and beneath towering eucalypts. The air is fresh and earthy, the sound of flowing water echoing through the gorge, creating an atmosphere that feels both peaceful and deeply connected to the Tasmanian landscape. Each turn along the path reveals new layers of lush vegetation, from moss-covered trunks to dense stands of tree ferns, making it a perfect destination for walkers who appreciate immersive, nature-rich settings.
Beyond its natural appeal, Ferndene also tells the story of Tasmania’s mining past. The remains of the Iron Cliff Mines, active in the late 1800s and early 1900s, can still be seen along short trails leading to Brownings Tunnel and Thorsbys Tunnel, historic sites once used for silver mining. The reserve’s picnic area, complete with tables, shelters, barbecues, and toilets, makes it a comfortable base for visitors. From here, it’s easy to enjoy a short family-friendly walk or set out on connecting trails into the broader Dial Range network. Ferndene State Reserve is a place where history, forest, and quiet reflection come together, offering an experience that feels both grounded and rejuvenating.
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Looking for more walks in or near Ferndene State Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
