Cape Raoul Track
Hike to dramatic dolerite cliffs for unparalleled coastal views on Tasmania's Tasman Peninsula. A must-do day trip!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Cape Raoul Track
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to dramatic dolerite cliffs for unparalleled coastal views on Tasmania's Tasman Peninsula. A must-do day trip!
"Absolutely the most stunning view I have ever witnessed during a hike."
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The track has ups and downs; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Pack plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. There are no water sources along the track. :droplet:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.9 · 164 reviews
Type
Observation Deck
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cape Raoul Lookout
Main viewpoint
Witness unparalleled coastal vistas of rugged cliffs and the vast ocean. A truly unforgettable sight.
Seal Lookout
Along the track
Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks below – a rewarding wildlife spotting opportunity.
Dolerite Columns
Coastal rock formations
Marvel at the impressive natural geometry of these towering geological formations along the coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Know Your Route
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The track has ups and downs; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Pack plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. There are no water sources along the track. :droplet:
☀️ Sun protection is key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as much of the track is exposed. :sunwithface:
🦘 Watch for wildlife
You might spot wallabies, lizards, and even snakes. Keep a safe distance. 🐍
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The track has ups and downs; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Pack plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. There are no water sources along the track. :droplet:
☀️ Sun protection is key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as much of the track is exposed. :sunwithface:
🦘 Watch for wildlife
You might spot wallabies, lizards, and even snakes. Keep a safe distance. 🐍
📸 Capture the views
The scenery is spectacular! Allow ample time for photos at various lookouts. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the absolutely stunning and breathtaking views from the Cape Raoul Track, calling it a highlight of their Tasmanian adventures. The hike is generally considered moderately challenging with rewarding scenery, though some found it less demanding than other local trails. While the full hike is recommended, even shorter walks to the lookouts offer magnificent vistas.
"This was absolutely the most stunning view I have ever witnessed during a hike. It is well worth the time. We took our time at the Lookout soaking it in and enjoying the scene change as time went on. The hike is not very difficult compared to some others we did in Tasmania but the views are breathtaking. We did not hike all to way to the end, partly because we left for the hike in the afternoon and there was not going to be enough sunlight to go to the end and back. And sometimes I have been disappointed with the final view and I was really happy just to hang out at the Lookout."
Heli Roy
"Beautiful walking in the silent forest. It's super silent forest. Amazing place. I went on a fog day, so I can't see the Cape Raoul clearly. But the walking was so beautiful. The Cape Raoul Lookout walking took about 1 hour to finish (in and out)"
Thien Nguyen
"We only walked to the observation deck and then to shipsterns lookout. About 4 miles total. View is magnificent. Would have lived to do whole walk but it was crazy windy"
xan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cape Raoul Track is located on the Tasman Peninsula, about a 1.5-hour drive from Hobart. You'll need a car to reach the trailhead. The drive itself offers scenic views of the Tasmanian landscape.
Yes, there is a dedicated car park at the trailhead. It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transport options are very limited for reaching the Cape Raoul Track. Renting a car is the most practical way to access the trailhead.
Currently, there are no regular shuttle services operating to the Cape Raoul Track. Private tours or car hire are the primary options.
From Port Arthur, it's a straightforward drive to the Cape Raoul trailhead. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, offering beautiful coastal scenery along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Cape Raoul Track and its lookouts is free. It's part of the Tasmanian National Parks system, but no specific entry fee is required for this particular hike.
The track is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
While Cape Raoul is within a national park area, this specific track does not have an individual entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty without a ticket.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided hikes of the Cape Raoul Track and the wider Three Capes region. This can be a great option if you prefer to have a guide.
The track is generally open, but it's always wise to check for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance. Always be mindful of the natural environment.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The full Cape Raoul Track is approximately 14km return and typically takes 4-5 hours to complete, including stops for photos and rest. Some visitors opt for shorter walks to the first lookout, which takes about 1.5 hours return. 
The track is generally considered moderate. While there are some uphill and downhill sections, it's often described as less demanding on the knees than hikes with extensive stairs.
There are basic toilet facilities available at the trailhead. It's advisable to use them before starting your hike, as there are no facilities along the track itself.
Yes, many families find the Cape Raoul Track enjoyable. The shorter walks to the lookouts are particularly suitable for children, offering stunning views without an overly strenuous effort.
Expect breathtaking coastal scenery, including dramatic dolerite cliffs, the turquoise ocean, and panoramic views of the Tasman Peninsula. You might also spot seals at the Seal Lookout.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. Golden hour can create truly magical shots of the coastline.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal landscapes. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the ocean and sky.
The main Cape Raoul Lookout provides iconic shots. Also, explore the various smaller lookouts along the track for unique perspectives of the cliffs and sea.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. Always check the latest regulations with Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service before flying a drone.
While clear days offer stunning vistas, dramatic cloudy or foggy conditions can also create moody and atmospheric photographs, especially of the cliffs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit