Location: Freycinet National Park
Length: 12.8 kilometres
Grade: 4 (213-metre elevation gain)
Difficulty: Medium-difficult. Some bushwalking experience recommended with steep grades
Distance from: Hobart - 197 km, Launceston - 180 km, Devonport - 261 km
The Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit is the premier family hike in Freycinet National Park. The national park sits on Tasmania's East Coast on a low marshy isthmus.
The carpark for this popular trail is easily identified, and that's where you'll find the trailhead. The beginning of the trail snakes its way through bushland while softly rising to the saddle between Mount Mayson and Mount Amos. Here, you'll find the steep climb up to Wineglass Bay lookout, which gives the hike its only elevation gain. This short detour is well worth the view of the bay from above. You'll be able to peer into the crystal clear waters from the lookout to see dark reefs and rocks interrupting azure blue waters.
When you return from the Wineglass Bay Lookout, you must descend a natural staircase with some steep sections. The well-defined trail takes you down to the beach of Wineglass Bay, where you can stick your toes in the soft sand.
The trail then cuts across the national park's isthmus on a flat, well-maintained trail that becomes an occasional Boardwalk. It'll take you about 45 minutes to reach Hazards Beach where you'll be rewarded with a more secluded area that is just as beautiful as Wineglass Bay.
The trail then returns to the carpark along the coast. Be on the lookout for the many hidden coves that make great swimming holes on hot days. On your way back, you'll experience a soft elevation gain.
Freycinet National Park is between Hobart and Launceston on Tasmania's East Coast. The drive from Hobart will take a little over two hours, and a drive from Launceston should take about two hours on the dot. Devonport is nearly three hours away to the northwest.
Freycinet National Park is a popular destination, and entry fees apply. Near the trailhead, there are picnic and toilet facilities, but during this relatively long hike, there will be no facilities. Pack accordingly.
Pack bug spray. The summer months bring mosquitoes, and March flies.
Bring enough water for the entire hike. Drink plenty of water the day before the hike and carry at least one litre per person during the hike. There are no facilities along the walk to refill.
This hike's medium-to-difficult rating is due to the unpatrolled beaches, hazardous cliffs, and steep track up to Wineglass Bay Lookout. It is not suitable for those with health issues or special needs, so always keep an eye on your children.
Pack a bathing suit for the many swimming opportunities. Be careful at the northern end of Wineglass Bay, as the surf can be a little rough. Ironically, the swimming is better, more secluded and safer at Hazards Beach.
Get to the trailhead early in the morning during summer, as this hike is incredibly popular. Otherwise, you'll fight for a parking spot and experience crowds at the lookout.
