Sunrise at Wineglass Bay
Image thanks to: Daniel Tran
Wineglass Bay from Wineglass Bay Walking Track
Image thanks to: Tourism Australia & Hugh Stewart
The walk commences from the carpark of the National Park, and is a 1.3 km ascent up a loose gravel t...
Image thanks to: Tourism Tasmania & Andrew McIntosh
Hazards Beach is a short walk across a forested isthmus from renowned Wineglass Bay.
Image thanks to: Tourism Tasmania & Paul Sinclair

Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit

Soak up the breathtaking views of Wineglass Bay.

WHAT SPARKS YOUR INTEREST?

Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit

Region

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 it's 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 get back down from the Wineglass Bay Lookout, you'll have to descend a natural staircase with some steep sections. The well-defined trail takes you down to the beach of Wineglass Bay where you'll be able to 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 for great swimming holes on hot days. You'll experience a soft elevation gain on your way back to the carpark.

Getting There

Freycinet National Park is in between Hobart and Launceston on Tasmania's East Coast. The drive from Hobart will take you a little over two hours, and a drive from Launceston should take you about two hours on the dot. Devonport is nearly three hours away to the northwest.

Facilities

Freycinet National Park is a popular destination and entry fees apply. You'll find picnic and toilet facilities near the trailhead, but you won't find any facilities during this relatively long hike. Pack accordingly.

Local Tips and Precautions

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.

The medium-to-difficult rating of this hike is for the unpatrolled beaches, hazardous cliffs and the steep track up to Wineglass Bay Lookout. The hike is not suitable for those with health issues or special needs, and 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 time as this hike is incredibly popular. Otherwise, you'll fight for a parking spot and you'll experience crowds at the lookout.

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