Place · 0.6 mi away
Overview
Mount Parsons caps the northern end of the Hazards and delivers a short, steep adventure with outsized rewards. It’s a hands‑on granite scramble rather than a groomed walk, best for hikers who like choosing their own line and don’t mind some route‑finding.
Route and Difficulty
Most parties start near Sleepy Bay and pick a line up open granite slabs toward the summit. Expect roughly 300 m/1,000 ft of elevation gain over about 1.6 km/1 mile, with sections of exposure above the coast. The route is indistinct in places; allow 3–5 hours return and be ready to backtrack if your line cliffs out.
What You’ll See
As you gain height, views open over Wineglass Bay, Mount Freycinet and the Tasman Sea. On a clear day you’ll spot the Hazards’ classic rosy domes and sweeping beaches. Keep an eye offshore—dolphins are sometimes active, and whales move through seasonally. Above, white‑bellied sea eagles often ride the coastal thermals.
Conditions and Safety
Go only on a dry, calm day. Dry granite offers great friction; wet or frosty slabs can be treacherous. Test holds, avoid lichen and damp streaks, and keep well back from cliff edges, especially in wind. Snakes occur in warm months—watch your footing. Navigation is off‑track: carry an offline map/app and know how to retreat the way you came.
Facilities and Logistics
There are no toilets, water, or bins on the Mount Parsons route. Use the facilities at Honeymoon Bay or Ranger Creek, or at the Wineglass Bay Walking Tracks car park, before driving to Sleepy Bay. Drinking water is scarce in the park—refill at the Visitor Centre’s filtered/chilled station or taps at Honeymoon Bay and the Walking Tracks car park, then carry plenty. Visitor Centre hours: December–April 8am–5pm; May–November 9am–4pm. A valid Parks Pass is required. Drones are not permitted in Tasmanian national parks. Pack out all rubbish.
Geology Snapshot
You’re scrambling on Devonian granite tinted pink by orthoclase feldspar, with black mica and white quartz— the very mix that gives the Hazards their signature color.
Best Time to Visit
Pick a dry, calm day any time of year; avoid rain, frost, or strong wind. Start early to enjoy cooler temperatures and quieter slabs, and to leave yourself a generous turnaround time.
Pros
- Big pink‑granite views over Wineglass Bay and the Tasman Sea
- Fun off‑track slab scramble for confident hikers
Cons
- Unmarked route with exposure; slippery and hazardous when wet
- No facilities on the route or summit
Tips
- Start from the Sleepy Bay area and expect an off‑track slab scramble.
- Go only in dry conditions; wet or frosty granite is dangerously slick.
- Carry 2+ liters of water—there’s none on the route or summit.
- Use Honeymoon Bay or Ranger Creek facilities before heading to Sleepy Bay.
- Bring an offline map/GPS and be prepared to backtrack if your line cliffs out.
