Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 340m
Min elevation: 49m
Total Ascent: 329m
Hike overview
Explore the Truganini Track and Dorneys Drop, a captivating 5 km, grade 4 hike nestled within the Truganini Conservation Area, Tasmania. This rewarding journey typically takes around 2 hours to complete.
Begin with a steady uphill climb, traversing a sheltered gully before ascending through open forest, where breathtaking views await at the historic Mt Nelson Signal Station.
The initial stretch of the trail follows the serene Cartwright Creek, offering glimpses of orchids, common heath, flag iris, and other wildflowers in bloom during Spring. En route to the summit, pause at the Truganini Memorial, a touching tribute to Tasmanian Aboriginal people and their descendants. From the Signal Station, soak in expansive views spanning Storm Bay to the Tasman Peninsula and beyond.
Continue your circuit hike by descending to the east via Nicholas Fire Trail and Dorneys Drop. Dorneys Drop serves as a vital link between Porter Hill and Mount Nelson, meandering through a low eucalypt forest adorned with majestic blue gums. Revel in panoramic views stretching towards the southern reaches of the River Derwent and across to Dorney House atop Porter Hill. After a serene stroll through Snugglers Gully, reconnect with Truganini Track to return to the trailhead, enriched by the natural wonders of the Truganini Conservation Area.
Gallery
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Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 340 m
Min elevation: 49 m
Total climbing: 329 m
Total descent: -329 m
For more information on this trail, visit Greater Hobart Trails
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Truganini Conservation Area.
Take a bus or drive your car to the start of the track near Cartwright Reserve on Sandy Bay Road.
Closest towns to this walk: Blackmans Bay, Hobart, Kingston, South Hobart, Taroona
About the region
The Truganini Conservation Area in Hobart is a cherished reserve, honoring the legacy of Tasmanian Aboriginal woman Truganini, born on Bruny Island (Lunawanna-alonnah) around 1812. As a daughter of the leader of the Bruny Island peoples, her story resonates deeply in this land.
Nestled on the south-east flank of Mount Nelson, the Truganini Reserve serves as a sanctuary for native bushland. A 90-minute return bushwalk spanning 4.2 kilometers invites explorers to descend from the Signal Station to Sandy Bay, tracing the meandering course of Cartwright Creek. Along the way, hikers traverse diverse vegetation, from eucalypt woodland to a tranquil rainforest-like gully. Amidst this natural tapestry, visitors encounter the Truganini Memorial, a poignant tribute to Tasmanian Aboriginal people and their descendants. Keep an eye out for wildflowers dotting the landscape and lend an ear to the melodic songs of native birds, including the endangered swift parrot.
The Truganini Conservation Area receives dedicated stewardship from Conservation Volunteers Australia, in collaboration with local volunteers and the Seven Mile Beach Parks and Wildlife Team. Their ongoing efforts in weeding and maintenance underscore the importance of preserving this invaluable reserve in Hobart.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Truganini Conservation Area? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
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
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.
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.