Three Capes Track

Few walks in Australia match the sheer drama of the Three Capes Track. Carved into the soaring dolerite sea cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula, this multi-day hut-based trek delivers non-stop coastal theatre: towering ocean cliffs, roaring Southern Ocean swells, and a sense of raw, untamed wilderness. The track is meticulously designed for independent hikers, with comfortable eco-huts and well-graded paths, making it an epic yet achievable adventure for anyone with reasonable fitness. This is Tasmania at its most elemental – wind, stone, and endless blue.

Highlights & What to See

• Walking the edge of the world: The track hugs the cliffs between Cape Pillar, Cape Hauy, and Cape Raoul, offering heart-stopping views of the Tasman Sea and the sheer dolerite columns that plunge into the ocean below.
• Spotting wildlife: Keep an eye out for white-bellied sea eagles, peregrine falcons, and if you're lucky, dolphins and whales breaching in the waters below. The native scrub is alive with birdlife and the occasional sleepy pademelon.
• Lighthouse at Cape Pillar: The Cape Pillar Lighthouse is a hauntingly beautiful landmark, perched on the edge of the abyss. The final stretch to the cape itself is a highlight, with views over the Tasman Island and its iconic lighthouse.
• Tasman Arch & Devil's Kitchen: Before you even set foot on the track, the nearby geological formations of Tasman Arch and Devil's Kitchen offer a taste of the dramatic coastline you're about to explore.
• Port Arthur Historic Site: A short drive from the track start, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a poignant and fascinating place to learn about Australia's convict history. It's an essential cultural add-on to your trip.

Suggested Time to Spend

The Three Capes Track is a four-day, three-night walk covering about 48 kilometres. Most hikers find the pace comfortable, with days of around 10–14 kilometres of walking, leaving plenty of time to soak in the views and explore side tracks. It's best to book well in advance, as the number of walkers is strictly limited to protect the environment. If you have extra time, add a day in the Tasman Peninsula to visit Port Arthur and explore the area's other coastal walks, like the shorter Cape Hauy Track.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Arthur – The convict settlement is just a stone's throw from the track start; spend a day exploring the ruins and taking a harbour cruise.
• Hobart – Tasmania's vibrant capital is the perfect pre- or post-trek base, with its famous Salamanca Market, MONA museum, and excellent food scene.
• Bruny Island – A short drive and ferry ride from Hobart, Bruny offers stunning cliffs, gourmet produce, and the chance to see white wallabies.
• Freycinet National Park – Home to the iconic Wineglass Bay, this is another must-do for hikers and nature lovers, located about 2.5 hours north.
• Launceston – The gateway to the Tamar Valley wine region and the starting point for trips to Cradle Mountain, Launceston is a charming city worth visiting.

Please check official sources for current details.