Trail Fast Facts
Mount Direction Track is a 7.2km, grade 4 hike in Mount Direction Conservation Area, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 2.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
A steep climb on the Mount Direction Track rewards hikers with spectacular views, especially to the north, extending all the way to Mt Dromedary. Just southeast of the summit, you'll find vistas of Hobart and kunanyi / Mount Wellington to the west. Along the trail, Bennett’s Wallabies can often be spotted.
The Mount Direction Track is a 7.2km, grade 4 hike in the Mount Direction Conservation Area, Tasmania, typically taking about 2.5 hours to complete.
Starting from the car park, follow the service roadway across the concrete dam and continue in a clockwise direction. About 500m from the dam wall, you'll reach a sharp bend in the gully with a seat. Proceed through the gate, cross a grassy area, and turn right onto the fire trail, following it for 500m. Ignore the fire trail to the left and continue for another 50m to a T-junction.
Turn left onto RB3, then take the first left onto RB13 and continue uphill, passing an electricity pylon. Follow the track off the fire trail as it begins to climb steeply. Pass through a gate to reach the rock cairn and communications station at the summit of Mt Direction. Due to the long, steep stretches, a good level of fitness is required, and walking boots are recommended.
You can return via the same route or complete the circuit as shown in the route map below to return to the trailhead.
Track Grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Tips
There are long steep stretches on this walk so a good level of fitness is required. Walking boots are recommended.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 431 m
Min elevation: 59 m
Total climbing: 418 m
Total descent: -419 m
For more information on this trail, visit Greater Hobart Trails
Trailhead
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Getting there
The track starts at Risdon Brook Dam which is located off Grasstree Hill Road in Risdon Vale. The East Derwent Highway is the nearest access road.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Looking for things to do in Mount Direction Conservation Area or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.