Three Capes Track

For those who crave a multi-day wilderness walk with jaw-dropping coastal drama, the Three Capes Track on the Tasman Peninsula delivers in spades. This iconic 48-kilometre, four-day, three-night walk takes you along towering sea cliffs, through temperate rainforest, and past some of Australia’s most spectacular coastal scenery. The track is well-maintained with comfortable huts and boardwalks, making it accessible to fit walkers without needing to carry a tent. It’s a journey that immerses you in the raw power of the Southern Ocean and the rich convict history of the region.

Highlights & What to See

• Cape Pillar – Gaze in awe at the 300-metre dolerite columns of the Organ Pipes and the sheer cliffs that plunge into the sea. This is the highest sea cliff in Australia.
• Cape Hauy – A side trip from the main track leads to this dramatic cape with its iconic sea stack, the Candlestick. The views over the Tasman Sea are unforgettable.
• Remarkable Cave – Near the end of the track, this sea cave offers a window through the cliff, perfectly framing the ocean beyond.
• Port Arthur Historic Site – The walk begins at the UNESCO-listed Port Arthur, where you can explore the convict settlement before setting off. It’s a hauntingly beautiful start to the journey.
• Wildlife Encounters – Keep an eye out for white-bellied sea eagles, peregrine falcons, and if you’re lucky, a whale breaching offshore. The coastal heath is also home to wallabies and echidnas.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate the full four days and three nights to complete the track at a comfortable pace. Most walkers start mid-morning from Port Arthur and walk to the first hut, then spend the next two days exploring the capes and coves, finishing on the fourth day. The track is designed for a self-guided experience, so you can walk at your own speed. If you’re short on time, a day walk to Cape Hauy from Fortescue Bay is a fantastic taster, taking about 5–6 hours return. For the full experience, though, the multi-day walk is unmissable.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Arthur Historic Site – Spend a day exploring the convict ruins and harbour cruises before or after your walk.
• Tasman National Park – The park encompasses the Three Capes Track and offers other walks like the Waterfall Bay track and the Tasman Arch.
• Eaglehawk Neck – The narrow isthmus with its historic dog line and the Tessellated Pavement is a short drive away.
• Hobart – The state capital is about 1.5 hours’ drive, with its vibrant food scene, MONA, and Mount Wellington.
• Freycinet National Park – Famous for Wineglass Bay, it’s a 2.5-hour drive and pairs well for a longer Tasmanian road trip.

Please check official sources for current details.