Rocky Cape National Park

Wedged between Table Cape at Wynyard and The Nut at Stanley, Rocky Cape National Park is full of surprises.

Rocky coastlines, heath-covered hills and significant Tasmanian Aboriginal sites are a compelling combination in this small but diverse park on the north-west coast. 

pinmatik / Rocky Cape – like The Nut - has dramatic geological features including twisted and contorted rocks formed over millions of years. It also contains sea caves, rock pools and pretty, sheltered beaches.

Highlights

Wind and salt

The vegetation here is windswept and salt-hardy, including coastal heathlands that bloom spectacularly in spring and summer, and several orchid species. The Xanthorrhoea (also known as the grass tree), with its grass-like skirt and tall flower spike, is a striking presence throughout the park.

Ancient culture

Containing many significant Tasmanian Aboriginal sites dating back thousands of years, Rocky Cape National Park has vast cave middens, significant artefacts and rock shelters that reveal much about the lifestyle of coastal Aboriginal people. A strong cultural and spiritual connection to this place continues today, with the Tasmanian Aboriginal community actively involved in the management of the park.

On foot

This park is best explored by foot, with numerous short and long walks that allow exploration of its diverse landscape, which includes sea caves, rock pools and secluded beaches.

Walks

North Cave and lighthouse

Winding through coastal heath towards the dark gash in the cliff that was once an Aboriginal shelter, this short return walk (10-20min) starts about 200m from the lighthouse. Please respect the wishes of the Tasmanian Aboriginal community and do not enter the cave. 

Banksia Grove/Caves Circuit

Covering both the coast and the heath-covered hills, this walk (1hr return, 1.6km) starts near the Sisters Beach boat ramp. Explore caves, enjoy rock-hopping and view an ancient Aboriginal midden.

Postmans Track

Named after the route used for horseback postal deliveries early last century, this track circles the easternmost section of the park, near Sisters Beach. Start from Lake Llewellyn and take the return walk (2.5hr, 4km), or you can leave a car at either end.

Inland Track

Stretch your legs with this track (3.5-4hr, 15km one way), which follows the Rocky Cape circuit track to Postmans Pass, then continues inland over the Sisters Hills (almost 300m high) before descending to Sisters Beach. There are plenty of tempting sidetracks if you’d like to extend this walk. 

Need to know

Camping

It’s not permitted in the park, but campsites can be found at the nearby township of Rocky Cape, Crayfish Creek, and the Peggs Beach Conservation Area. Or rent accommodation in Sisters Beach and Boat Harbour.

Facilities

There are picnic areas, barbecue areas and toilet facilities at Mary Ann Cove and the Sisters Beach holiday area. There’s no drinking water available at either facility.

Entry

A parks pass is required for entry to Tasmania’s national parks. 

Where

Rocky Cape National Park is a 2hr 15min drive (188km) west of Launceston.

More detail

https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/rocky-cape-national-park