Place · 0.4 mi away
Overview
Mount Amos is the short, steep, Grade 4 scramble in the Hazards that delivers the postcard panorama of Wineglass Bay. Expect 3–5 hours return over 3.6–5 km with about 450 m (≈1,500 ft) of climbing. It’s hands‑on in places and best treated like a serious scramble rather than a stroll.
What You’ll See
From the 454 m summit you get an uninterrupted sweep of Wineglass Bay, the Freycinet Peninsula, Honeymoon Bay, and Coles Bay. On clear days the light rakes across the granite domes for dramatic photos; sunrise and late‑day light are especially good.
The Route and Difficulty
Start at the Wineglass Bay/Mt Amos car park just past the visitor centre near Coles Bay. The first minutes are tame, then the track tips up onto polished granite slabs and boulders. Follow the yellow arrows (you may also notice occasional ribbons) and expect sections on all fours. The descent is slower and can feel spicier—bum‑sliding down certain slabs is normal.
Safety First
Do not attempt this walk in rain or soon after rain—the granite becomes extremely slick. Even on fine days the summit is exposed and conditions can change quickly. Wear supportive, grippy footwear and pack 1–1.5 L of water per person, sun protection, and a wind layer. If aiming for sunrise/sunset, bring a headlamp and be ready for cold, wind, and reduced grip from dew or mist.
Logistics & Facilities
There are toilets at the Walking Tracks (Wineglass Bay) car park—the trail and summit have none. Water taps are at the car park and at Honeymoon Bay, but the best refill is the filtered/chilled station at the visitor centre. Nearby Honeymoon Bay and Ranger Creek have picnic tables and electric BBQs (Ranger Creek also has a cold‑water shower block). A valid park pass is required. Pack out all rubbish, and note that drones aren’t permitted in Tasmanian national parks.
Wildlife
Around Freycinet you may see Bennett’s wallabies, pademelons, echidnas, and plenty of birdlife; in winter, humpback whales pass offshore. Bring mosquito protection—Ross River virus is present in the region.
Alternatives
If conditions are damp or you prefer something tamer, the Wineglass Bay Lookout offers an easier, constructed track with excellent views—without the slab scrambling.
Best Time to Visit
Choose a clear, dry day. For photos, sunrise or late afternoon is gorgeous; for safer footing, mid‑morning after the granite has dried is ideal. Allow ample daylight for a careful descent.
Pros
- Big‑payoff views over Wineglass Bay and Coles Bay
- Well‑marked route with yellow arrows across the granite
Cons
- Steep granite slabs that become dangerously slippery when wet
- No facilities on the trail or summit; toilets only at the car park
Tips
- Only go in dry conditions; postpone if it’s rained recently.
- Follow the yellow arrows closely—straying onto unmarked slabs gets risky fast.
- Wear grippy shoes and pack 1–1.5 L of water per person.
- Budget extra time for the descent; it’s slower and more awkward than the climb.
- Refill bottles at the visitor centre’s filtered station before you head up.
