Guide to Mount Wellington, Tasmania

Share


Mount Wellington, Tasmania—also known by the palawa kani name Kunanyi, Mount Wellington—is practically synonymous with Hobart’s skyline. Rising dramatically behind the city, it offers epic panoramas from the summit, lush forests, hiking trails, and a chance to experience that quintessential Tassie wilderness without straying too far from the city lights. People flock here to soak in jaw-dropping views from the Mount Wellington lookout, hike Mount Wellington for a dose of Tassie’s natural serenity and relish the crisp mountain air. Nearby, Trestle Mountain, aka Sleeping Beauty, offers additional hiking routes accessible from Collinsvale, providing even more opportunities for adventure. 

Oysters Family at the beach Salad

Join thousands of fellow campervan travellers


Sign up for our Britz newsletter to receive inspirational travel content and awesome deals, and we'll send you a copy of our Ultimate RV guide!

Britz is committed to protecting your privacy and information security. Your information will be used in accordance with any application privacy law, our internal policies, and our Privacy Policy, and will be held securely.

Thanks

Please confirm subscription in your email.

Can you drive up to Kunanyi Mount Wellington, Tasmania?

Absolutely! Pinnacle Road takes you right to the Mount Wellington summit, where sweeping views of Hobart, the River Derwent, and beyond await. The drive is typically smooth, though Mount Wellington weather can sometimes throw a spanner in the works. During winter or after a big storm, the road may close because of snow, ice, or powerful winds, so be sure to check local alerts before setting out. 

If you’re cruising around in a campervan, pay extra attention to wind and icy forecasts. The road narrows and twists as it climbs, which can turn tricky in wild conditions. When in doubt, you might want to park lower down—places like The Springs or Fern Tree are good options—and switch to the Mount Wellington Explorer bus service. It’ll take you right to the top, letting someone else handle the tough bits on a wild-weather day! 

Can you drive up to Kunanyi Mount Wellington, Tasmania?

Absolutely! Pinnacle Road takes you right to the Mount Wellington summit, where sweeping views of Hobart, the River Derwent, and beyond await. The drive is typically smooth, though Mount Wellington weather can sometimes throw a spanner in the works. During winter or after a big storm, the road may close because of snow, ice, or powerful winds, so be sure to check local alerts before setting out. 

If you’re cruising around in a campervan, pay extra attention to wind and icy forecasts. The road narrows and twists as it climbs, which can turn tricky in wild conditions. When in doubt, you might want to park lower down—places like The Springs or Fern Tree are good options—and switch to the Mount Wellington Explorer bus service. It’ll take you right to the top, letting someone else handle the tough bits on a wild-weather day! 


How long does it take to walk up to Mount Wellington, Tasmania?

Hiking Mount Wellington is easily one of the top things to do at Mount Wellington for anyone keen to stretch their legs and soak up Tasmania’s rugged beauty. From central Hobart, trekking up can take about three to five hours, with classic routes like the Zig Zag Track or Lenah Valley Track leading you through a mix of dense forests, rocky outcrops, and spectacular vantage points. 

Looking for a shorter trek? Start from The Springs and aim for the summit in around 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s still a solid climb, but you’ll shave off a decent chunk of walking time and enjoy a gentler route if you’re not up for the full day’s effort. Either way, expect a decent workout—complete with striking views and that fresh mountain breeze that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear. 


How to get to Mount Wellington

Wondering how to get to Mount Wellington for a day of mountain fun? 

  • From Hobart (20–30 minutes): Head up Pinnacle Road straight to the Mount Wellington summit. Cycling is an option if you’re up for a leg-burning challenge. 

  • From Richmond (40 minutes): Take the B31 to Hobart, then follow the clearly marked signs to Mount Wellington. 

  • From New Norfolk (45 minutes): Hop on the Lyell Highway (A10) towards Hobart, then take Huon Road to Pinnacle Road. 

  • From Kingston (30 minutes): Drive north on the Southern Outlet (A6) and follow Huon Road up the mountain. 

For campervans, parking is usually easiest at lower-elevation spots like Fern Tree or The Springs. This approach spares you the hairpin bends in extreme weather and sets you up nicely for a scenic hike (or a quick bus ride) the rest of the way. 

Mount Wellington, Tasmania

Best time to visit Mount Wellington

When’s the best time to visit Mount Wellington? Well, if you’re after warmer days and clear skies, summer (December to February) is your prime window. The mountain stays relatively cool thanks to its altitude, so a bright summer day is ideal for those who love a comfortable climb. Autumn (March to May) serves up fewer crowds, gorgeous foliage, and crisp air—plus, you might get lucky with crystal-clear views at the summit. 

Spring (September to November) treats you to blooming wildflowers and pleasantly mild days, though you could also meet a surprise frost or drizzle. For the early birds, morning visits are often the clearest and come packaged with a breathtaking sunrise, while midday is fantastic for bright photography. Evenings bring mesmerising sunsets, but don’t forget a cosy jumper for when the temperature plummets! 

 

Weather in Mount Wellington

Mount Wellington weather, just like the rest of Tasmania, likes to keep everyone on their toes. Thanks to its elevation, you can start the day under sunny Hobart skies and end up in swirling mist or snow at the top. On average, the mountain sees rain on around 142 days of the year, which means it pays to pack that raincoat and some waterproof shoes. Winter can bring regular snowfalls, transforming the summit into a frosty playground (albeit a chilly one). 

No matter the season, layering is your best mate. Bring a jacket for those bracing summit breezes (and there are plenty!), and if you’re planning a sunrise or sunset visit, don’t be surprised if your breath starts to cloud the air. A beanie, gloves, and an adventurous spirit go a long way to ensuring your Mount Wellington experience is as fun, safe, and memorable as possible.