Collins Bonnet - Promised rays of sunshine! A light fedora hat on vacation by the sea. - Obiecane promyki słońca! Lekki kapelusz typu fedora na urlopie nad morzem.
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Collins Bonnet

4.6
·491k reviews·Wellington Park, Australia

A rewarding 12-14.5km hike in Wellington Park, Tasmania, offering lush forests, waterfalls, and breathtaking 360° summit views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers in bloom

CrowdMedium
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Collins Bonnet - Promised rays of sunshine! A light fedora hat on vacation by the sea. - Obiecane promyki słońca! Lekki kapelusz typu fedora na urlopie nad morzem.

Collins Bonnet

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers in bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A rewarding 12-14.5km hike in Wellington Park, Tasmania, offering lush forests, waterfalls, and breathtaking 360° summit views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience breathtaking 360° views from Collins Bonnet, a must-do hike near Hobart!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed

Essential for varied terrain and potential wet conditions.

🧥 Pack Layers & Waterproofs

Tasmanian weather changes fast! Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Collins Bonnet Summit

Collins Bonnet Summit

Summit

Experience breathtaking 360° views of the surrounding Wellington Range and beyond.

Instagram+1
Myrtle Forest Trailhead

Myrtle Forest Trailhead

Start of the hike

Begin your journey through lush, temperate fern forests with beautiful waterfalls.

Instagram
Native Flora in Bloom

Native Flora in Bloom

Along the track

Discover native orchids and waratahs, especially vibrant during spring.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Best Time for Views

Aim for clear days to maximize the stunning 360° panoramas from the summit. While beautiful in all seasons, winter can bring snow and challenging conditions, so check forecasts carefully. Instagram

Gear Up for the Elements

Tasmanian weather is notoriously changeable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy hiking boots, as conditions can shift rapidly from sunshine to wind and rain, even in summer. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers in bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Clear summer afternoons
Why
Best panoramic views
Crowd
High
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Jt hit mulchy today! 🤟🔥 @DHaRCO Clothing @ZerodeBikes @Cooper_jolly_36 #christchurchadventurepark #gcneedstoopen #zerode #Ozonelockedin #g3 @Jackson Clark
@sophie_mtb149
710 likes • 3.7K views

👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed

Essential for varied terrain and potential wet conditions. Instagram+1

🧥 Pack Layers & Waterproofs

Tasmanian weather changes fast! Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain. Instagram

ออกจากบ้าน ไปเดินเล่น แต่ได้ลุยหิมะแบบ งงๆ ❄️🌨️🏔️ Collins Bonnet Track, Wellington Park, Tasmania 14.5 km return #เดินป่า#แทสมาเนีย#เดินป่าออสเตรเลีย#tasmania
poonim_richa
34 likes • 644 views
Heading to Hobart? Put this hike on your list! Starting out in Collinsvale, the Myrtle Forest track and hike up to Collins Bonnet is definitely a favourite of mine. Starting out in lush green forest and slowly winding up into the sub-alpine slopes of the Wellington range, this is a great 12km return day hike. Apparently there are great views from the top of Collins Bonnet but, true to form, I ...
catsninelives
29 likes • 548 views

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially important for the 12-14.5km return hike. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Views

The summit offers incredible 360° vistas. Instagram+1

Another fabulous day exploring our backyard - Collins Bonnet is a great day hike just 30 minutes from the Hobart CBD, starting at the Myrtle Forest trail head. You wind your way past the beautiful waterfalls, temperate fern forests and you currently have flowers in bloom everywhere from native orchids to waratah. Just beautiful!! #nofilter #nature #wayfarercantakeyouthere #insta #travel #travelgra...
adimunshi28
20 likes • 264 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed

Essential for varied terrain and potential wet conditions. Instagram+1

🧥 Pack Layers & Waterproofs

Tasmanian weather changes fast! Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain. Instagram

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially important for the 12-14.5km return hike. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Views

The summit offers incredible 360° vistas. Instagram+1

⏰ Allow 3-4 Hours

For the 12-14.5km return trip, including stops. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Collins Bonnet for its stunning 360-degree summit views and the beautiful, varied scenery along the hike, from lush forests to waterfalls. It's considered a rewarding challenge for hikers and trail runners alike, offering a true taste of Tasmanian wilderness just a short drive from Hobart. Some find the weather unpredictable and the climb demanding, but the payoff is widely regarded as worth the effort.

What People Like

Spectacular summit views
Beautiful forest and waterfalls
Challenging hike

What People Dislike

Unpredictable weather
Steep sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Collins Bonnet is conveniently located about 30 minutes from Hobart's CBD. The most common starting points are the Myrtle Forest trailhead or Big Bend Carpark in Wellington Park. Driving is the easiest way to access the trailheads. Instagram+1

While direct public transport to the trailheads is limited, you can take a bus to The Springs on Mt Wellington and then potentially hike from there, though this adds significant distance and elevation. Reddit

The Myrtle Forest trailhead is a popular starting point, leading you through beautiful forests. Big Bend Carpark is another option, often used for longer loops or trail runs. Instagram+1

Yes, but be prepared for potentially cold, windy, and snowy conditions. Check weather forecasts and road conditions before you go, as access can be affected by snow. Instagram

While some videos mention trail running, Collins Bonnet is primarily a hiking destination. Mountain biking is generally restricted to designated tracks within Wellington Park, and this specific summit hike is not typically for bikes. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Collins Bonnet and Wellington Park are free to access. There are no entry fees or tickets required for hiking. Instagram

Wellington Park is generally accessible at all times, but specific road access to certain areas might be restricted during certain hours or due to weather conditions. It's best to check local park information if you plan to drive. Reddit

Parking at the trailheads for Collins Bonnet, such as Myrtle Forest or Big Bend Carpark, is free of charge. Instagram+1

While technically possible, hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and the potential for getting lost. Stick to daylight hours for this hike. Instagram

No permits are required for day hiking on Collins Bonnet. It's a public access area within Wellington Park. Instagram

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The walk is typically around 12-14.5 km return, taking approximately 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit. Instagram+2

It's considered a moderate to challenging hike due to its length and elevation gain (around 700m vertical). The terrain can be uneven and steep in parts. Instagram+1

You'll be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of Hobart, the Derwent River, Bruny Island, and the surrounding Wellington Range, including Mount Wellington itself. Instagram+2

Yes, the track passes by beautiful waterfalls, particularly in the earlier sections starting from the Myrtle Forest trailhead. Instagram+1

The main track is generally well-marked, but it's always advisable to carry a map or use a GPS app, especially if you plan to explore any side routes. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no food or dining facilities directly at Collins Bonnet or its trailheads. You'll need to bring all your own food and drinks. Instagram

Pack plenty of water and high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and sandwiches. Some hikers even bring a small celebratory drink for the summit! Instagram

Hobart is only a 30-minute drive away and offers a wide range of cafes, pubs, and restaurants to refuel after your hike. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views, making it the prime spot for landscape photography. Don't miss the waterfalls and lush forest sections near the start. Instagram+2

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. However, clear midday can offer stunning visibility. Instagram

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for capturing the expansive summit views. Instagram

No, photography is generally permitted. However, always be mindful of other hikers and avoid blocking paths. Instagram

While clear days offer the best visibility, dramatic clouds or even a light dusting of snow can add unique character to your photos. Instagram+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Collins Bonnet hike can be a fantastic adventure for families, provided children are accustomed to longer walks. The initial sections through the Myrtle Forest with its waterfalls offer a magical introduction. Instagram Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for the elevation gain. The summit views are a great reward for younger hikers' efforts. Consider starting early to avoid the midday sun and potential crowds. Instagram

🏃 Trail Runners

Collins Bonnet is a popular spot for trail running, offering a challenging 14.5km loop with significant elevation gain. The varied terrain, from forest paths to rocky ascents, provides an excellent workout. Instagram Runners often start from Big Bend Carpark for a more continuous climb. Be mindful of hikers, especially on narrower sections, and always check conditions, as the trail can be wet and slippery. Instagram+1

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Collins Bonnet is a dream destination. The 360-degree summit views are unparalleled, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1 Don't forget to capture the beauty of the waterfalls and the lush temperate rainforest on your way up. Instagram A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to do justice to the expansive landscapes. Be prepared for changing weather, as dramatic skies can add incredible mood to your shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Collins Bonnet Hike Experience

The Collins Bonnet walk is a popular day hike located in Wellington Park, Tasmania, offering a rewarding experience for hikers and trail runners. The trail typically spans about 12 to 14.5 kilometers return, with an elevation gain of around 700 meters. It's known for its varied terrain, starting in lush, temperate rainforests with cascading waterfalls and gradually ascending to the sub-alpine slopes of the Wellington Range. Instagram+2

Hikers often describe the journey as a sensory delight, with the scent of damp earth and the sound of flowing water accompanying them through the initial forest sections. As you climb higher, the vegetation changes, and the views begin to open up. The final push to the summit is often described as invigorating, leading to a truly spectacular payoff. Instagram+1

Upon reaching the summit of Collins Bonnet, visitors are treated to breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. This vantage point offers sweeping vistas of Hobart, the Derwent River, Bruny Island, and the surrounding mountainous landscape, including a clear view of Mount Wellington itself. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of Tasmania. Instagram+2

Navigating Wellington Park and Collins Bonnet

Wellington Park is a vast natural reserve, and Collins Bonnet is one of its most accessible and rewarding peaks. The primary access points for the Collins Bonnet hike are the Myrtle Forest trailhead and the Big Bend Carpark. Both offer different starting experiences, with Myrtle Forest leading you through denser, wetter forest, while Big Bend can be part of longer trail running circuits. Instagram+1

While the main track to Collins Bonnet is generally well-defined, it's crucial to be prepared. The trail can be steep and rocky in places, and weather conditions can change rapidly. It's highly recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots, carry sufficient water and snacks, and pack layers of clothing, including waterproofs, regardless of the forecast. Instagram+1

For those looking for a more challenging experience, Collins Bonnet can be incorporated into longer hikes or trail runs, sometimes linking with other peaks like Trestle Mountain or Mount Marian. However, for a standard day hike, the 3-4 hour return trip is a manageable and highly enjoyable adventure. Instagram+2

The Seasonal Beauty of Collins Bonnet

Collins Bonnet offers a distinct charm throughout the year, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In spring, the lower slopes burst into life with native flora, including vibrant wildflowers like native orchids and waratahs, creating a colorful spectacle. Instagram

Summer brings the warmest weather and the clearest skies, ideal for maximizing those stunning panoramic views from the summit. However, this is also peak season, so expect more fellow hikers on the trail. Autumn offers a more serene experience with beautiful golden light filtering through the trees and fewer crowds. Instagram

Winter transforms the landscape into a starkly beautiful, sometimes snow-dusted, environment. While the views can be dramatic, hikers must be extra cautious due to potentially icy conditions, strong winds, and reduced daylight hours. Proper winter gear and a thorough check of weather and track conditions are essential during this season. Instagram+1

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