Aug 2026 - Knocklofty Summit Loop

This walk was a return to an old favourite for some of us. The Summit Loop on Knocklofty, just on the fringe of West Hobart, is easy to access, fairly short, and a beaut mini escape from the city. We struck it lucky with the weather today - sunny and mild, with the occasional breeze. Our walkers were Di, Angie, Fin, Kat, Philip, Lyn and Bob.

We met at the picnic table near the carpark at the top of Forest Road, and set off at 10am. The first half of the route features a steady uphill fire trail, which is a good test of one's cardiovascular fitness. We stopped (talking) a few times to observe birds - green rosella, forest raven, wren, fantail - and to admire kunanyi in the near distance.

It is a relief to the legs to reach the plateau at the top and cross over the Knocklofty Summit.

From here the trail is compacted and dry, and weaves through open bushland.

There is an active Friends of Knocklofty group which helps the Council's parks team to look after this place, and they are doing a great job keeping the weeds under control. We didn't see any wallabies today, sadly. We stopped at the comfy bench a little way down for water and some nibbles. Then it was onwards and downwards on the gently meandering trail. More birds were heard - wattlebird.

The walk took about an hour and a half, and we reconvened just down the hill at the Pigeon Hole Cafe for lunch and coffee. The meals were yummy and generous (just look at Kat's toastie!).

What a lovely outing with our mates.