The Goat Hills Zig Zag Hike is an 8km, grade 3 hike in N.R. Pierce Reserve, Tasmania, typically taking around 3 hours to complete.
Begin by ascending the switchbacks of the ZigZag Fire Trail, which connects to Dooley's Trail and leads to the summit of Goat Hill North at 673 meters. From the summit, enjoy unique views encompassing kunanyi / Mount Wellington, Hobart CBD, and the surrounding area, including Collinsvale. After reaching the summit, retrace your steps briefly and turn left to continue along the Zig Zag Fire Trail to the junction with Montrose and Goat Fire Trails. Follow Montrose Trail, gradually ascending to East West Trail. Turning right here will bring you back to Zig Zag Fire Trail, allowing you to descend to the trailhead at Collinsvale Road.
Along the hike, keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles soaring above, as well as devil and quoll footprints in the sand. Large tree hollows along the way may house masked owls.
This trail also offers the possibility of connecting to Wellington Park, with further hiking and riding options extending to Mount Hull and as far as Crabtree in the Huon Valley.
- The reserve features numerous unmarked tracks and fire trails providing access to Transcend power lines and other services within the area.
- Walkers should exercise caution to avoid getting lost, particularly as the reserve connects to Wellington Park, characterised by vast stretches of native bushland that can be isolated and subject to extreme weather conditions.
- Access to the Telecom Towers and any facilities at the summit is prohibited, with the area under CCTV surveillance by TasNetworks.
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: 8117 m
Max elevation: 672 m
Min elevation: 431 m
Total climbing: 447 m
Total descent: -447 m
For more information on this trail, visit Greater Hobart Trails
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: N.R. Pierce Reserve.
From Glenorchy / Hobart: Travelling up Berridale Road, veer left onto Collinsvale Road. The trail head and parking is at the hairpin turn approximately 3.5 km from the Berridale – Collinsvale Road junction.
From Collinsvale: Travelling towards Glenorchy / Hobart, turn right at the Glenlusk – Collinsvale Road junction. The trail head and parking is at the hairpin turn approximately 400m downhill.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
The N.R. Pierce Reserve is a significant bushland reserve donated to the people of Glenorchy by the Pierce family in 1988 in memory of Norman R. Pierce. The reserve's 325+ hectares is contingent with Wellington Park, and contains a variety of threatened species and ecosystems.
Let someone know
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near N.R. Pierce Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.