Rocky Cape National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Tasmania
Snorkeling Guide

Rocky Cape National Park

Rocky Cape National Park offers rugged coastal scenery, rich Aboriginal heritage sites, and diverse ecosystems, perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring Tasmanian natural beauty.

National Park28854+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

2885

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Rocky Cape National Park

Rocky Cape National Park offers rugged coastal scenery, rich Aboriginal heritage sites, and diverse ecosystems, perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring Tasmanian natural beauty.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located on Tasmania’s northwest coast, Rocky Cape National Park spans a diverse coastal environment featuring granite headlands, sand dunes, heathlands, and sheltered inlets. The park is renowned for its dramatic cliffs overlooking Bass Strait and its significant Aboriginal cultural sites containing middens and rock art dating back thousands of years. The park’s vegetation includes coastal heath, dry sclerophyll forests, and pockets of rainforest, supporting species such as Bennetts wallabies, echidnas, and a variety of birdlife including the rare forty-spotted pardalote. Visitors can enjoy walking trails that pass sandy beaches and rocky outcrops, with the Rocky Cape Circuit offering panoramic ocean views. The park’s history includes early European exploration and traditional use by the Tasmanian Aboriginal people, making it a place of both natural and cultural importance. Key activities include hiking, snorkeling in shallow waters, fishing along the rocky coast, and picnicking in scenic spots. The park’s relative remoteness ensures a tranquil experience with fewer crowds compared to larger national parks. Rocky Cape is particularly popular for photography, given its striking coastal vistas and abundant wildlife. Visitors are drawn to the blend of natural landscapes and cultural stories woven throughout the park’s geography.

Field Guide · National Park

Notable Landscape Features

Iconic geological landmarks, alpine vantage points, and distinctive ecosystems in Rocky Cape National Park.

Feature 1

Rocky Cape Circuit

A scenic 7-kilometer loop trail providing sweeping views of the coastline and Bass Strait.

Feature 2

Aboriginal Middens

Archaeological sites with shell and bone deposits evidencing thousands of years of Aboriginal occupation.

Feature 3

Granite Headlands

Striking geological formations rising above coastal heath and sandy beaches.

Key Wilderness Highlights

The Rocky Cape Circuit Walk offering panoramic views of Bass StraitAncient Aboriginal middens and rock art sitesDiverse coastal environments including granite headlands and sandy beachesSecluded snorkel spots with clear waters and marine life
Iconic Trails & Natural Landmarks

Top Trails & Sights in Rocky Cape National Park

Discover summit paths, alpine loops, and natural wonders within this protected wilderness.

Moderate4.3

Rocky Cape Circuit

Loop trail that offers stunning coastal and forest scenery with views of Bass Strait.

Easy1.2

Bushrangers Bay Walk

Short walk to a sheltered bay ideal for picnicking and swimming.

Moderate2.5

Edge of the Cape Trail

Trail along the rocky headlands with opportunities to spot seabirds and marine life.

Easy3.0

Ocean Beach Walk

Flat coastal walk along sandy beaches suitable for families.

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Rocky Cape National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Activity Spotlight

Snorkeling in Rocky Cape National Park

View Full Park Guide

Rocky Cape National Park offers exceptional terrain and routes for snorkeling, featuring established access paths, scenic vistas, and protected wilderness territory.

Other Activities in Rocky Cape National Park:HikingCampingWildlife ViewingFishingPhotographyPicnicking
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Rocky Cape National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; no permits required for day use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Rocky Cape National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Rocky Cape Campground

Basic facilities with toilets and tent sites located close to the main beach and walking trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Rocky Cape National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic desert basecamps surrounding the park.

Wynyard, Tasmania, Tasmania
Gateway Basecamp

Wynyard, Tasmania, Tasmania

Wynyard, Tasmania is a friendly coastal town offering hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing adventures. With its scenic Table Cape, nearby forests, and beaches, it’s an excellent base for exploring Tasmania’s northwest outdoors.

Spring through AutumnExplore Town
Smithton, Tasmania, Tasmania
Gateway Basecamp

Smithton, Tasmania, Tasmania

Smithton, Tasmania, is a quiet gateway to the wild northwest coast, offering hiking, mountain biking, and paddling experiences amid untouched forests and rugged shoreline. It’s a great base for travelers seeking peaceful nature adventures in remote settings.

Summer and AutumnExplore Town
Port Stanley, Ontario, Tasmania
Gateway Basecamp

Port Stanley, Ontario, Tasmania

Port Stanley offers a laid-back lakeside escape with hiking trails, paddling on Lake Erie, fishing, and bird watching. Ideal from late spring to early fall, it’s perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking water and trail adventures.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Rocky Cape National Park

Explore with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and wilderness outfitters.

End of Truffle Season Feast: A Long‑Table Dinner Beneath the Oaks in Lower Barrington
Certified Outfitter

End of Truffle Season Feast: A Long‑Table Dinner Beneath the Oaks in Lower Barrington

A 3–4 hour long‑table degustation on a truffle farm in Lower Barrington showcasing the last of the black winter truffles with guest chefs and matched wines.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Two Nights at Truffledore: Train a truffle dog, hunt the harvest and cook the feast in Lower Barrington
Certified Outfitter

Two Nights at Truffledore: Train a truffle dog, hunt the harvest and cook the feast in Lower Barrington

A fully inclusive, two‑night immersive farm stay with owners Timo and Ina that teaches dog training, real truffle hunting, harvesting and a hands‑on truffle dinner — useful as a practical, on‑farm field guide to the entire truffle process.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
When Spring Unfurls: Walking Hectares of Tulips on Table Cape
Certified Outfitter

When Spring Unfurls: Walking Hectares of Tulips on Table Cape

During spring open days the farm opens hectares of tulips for visitors to stroll through and pairs the outdoor spectacle with indoor floral displays, Devonshire teas, an art gallery and bulb‑growing information — this guide helps you plan a relaxed visit.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Christmas High Tea at The Truffledore — Two Hours of Sweet, Savoury and Seasonal Warmth in Lower Barrington
Certified Outfitter

Christmas High Tea at The Truffledore — Two Hours of Sweet, Savoury and Seasonal Warmth in Lower Barrington

A two-hour, festive afternoon featuring a generous selection of Christmas-inspired sweet and savoury treats, with tea and coffee provided — this guide orients you to what to expect and any important restrictions.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Burnie’s Coastal Delights: Whisky, Waterfalls and Fern-Glade Strolls
Certified Outfitter

Burnie’s Coastal Delights: Whisky, Waterfalls and Fern-Glade Strolls

A fully guided, 6-hour Burnie sightseeing tour that pairs coastal lookouts and nature walks with local gourmet tastings—this guide explains the route, stops and practical details.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Exclusive Escape: An Intimate Foray into Caves, Vines, Gardens and Wildlife on Tasmania’s Northwest Coast
Certified Outfitter

Exclusive Escape: An Intimate Foray into Caves, Vines, Gardens and Wildlife on Tasmania’s Northwest Coast

A small-group, roughly six-hour day tour from West Ulverstone that visits Gunns Plains Caves, Wings Wildlife Park and Kaydale Gardens — this guide explains the route, highlights and accessibility considerations.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Birthday in the Wild: Hands‑On Encounters at Wings Wildlife Park, Gunns Plains
Certified Outfitter

Birthday in the Wild: Hands‑On Encounters at Wings Wildlife Park, Gunns Plains

A 3.5‑hour, all‑inclusive children's birthday party featuring a guided keeper tour, hands‑on encounters with native marsupials, a reserved celebration area and brunch — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Bunk-room camaraderie at Wings Wildlife Park — simple shared rooms for friends in Gunns Plains
Certified Outfitter

Bunk-room camaraderie at Wings Wildlife Park — simple shared rooms for friends in Gunns Plains

An essential guide to the Two Bunk Bed Room at Wings Wildlife Park: what to expect, who it suits, and practical check‑in and linen options.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Up Close at Gunns Plains: All-Day Access to Keeper Talks and Animal Encounters
Certified Outfitter

Up Close at Gunns Plains: All-Day Access to Keeper Talks and Animal Encounters

General Admission at Wings Wildlife Park in Gunns Plains delivers all-day access to keeper talks and up-close wildlife encounters — this guide distils the schedule, entry notes and what to bring.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Sleep Among the Wildlife: A Corner Family Room at Wings Wildlife Park
Certified Outfitter

Sleep Among the Wildlife: A Corner Family Room at Wings Wildlife Park

Stay onsite in Gunns Plains in a corner family room for up to five guests with beds, a fridge and linens provided — an uncomplicated way to turn a zoo visit into an overnight family getaway.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Face to Face with Blinky: Tasmania’s Nearly Lost Koala at Gunns Plains
Certified Outfitter

Face to Face with Blinky: Tasmania’s Nearly Lost Koala at Gunns Plains

A brief, 15-minute up-close encounter at Wings Wildlife Park to see Blinky—one of only two koalas in Tasmania—and a concise guide to what to expect.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Hand‑feeding Marmosets and Keeper‑shot Portraits at Wings Wildlife Park
Certified Outfitter

Hand‑feeding Marmosets and Keeper‑shot Portraits at Wings Wildlife Park

A 15‑minute, hands‑on marmoset feeding at Wings Wildlife Park in Gunns Plains where keepers will photograph your interaction—this concise guide explains what to expect and what to bring.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Keeper at Your Shoulder: A 90‑Minute, Tailored Wildlife Encounter at Wings Wildlife Park
Certified Outfitter

Keeper at Your Shoulder: A 90‑Minute, Tailored Wildlife Encounter at Wings Wildlife Park

A personalised, keeper‑led 90‑minute tour that delivers close encounters with Tasmanian wildlife and rare behind‑the‑scenes access—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Cuddles & Quacks: The Baby Animal Snuggle‑Fest at Wings Wildlife Park
Certified Outfitter

Cuddles & Quacks: The Baby Animal Snuggle‑Fest at Wings Wildlife Park

A brief, 15‑minute session at Wings Wildlife Park in Gunns Plains to pat and hold baby bunnies, guinea pigs and — when available — ducklings and chicks; this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience
Cradle Mountain in a Day: A Shore-Ready Walk Through Lakes, Waterfalls and Tasmanian Wildlife
Certified Outfitter

Cradle Mountain in a Day: A Shore-Ready Walk Through Lakes, Waterfalls and Tasmanian Wildlife

A tailored day trip from Devonport for cruise ship passengers that visits Cradle Mountain’s walking tracks, waterfalls and lakes while allowing for adjusted timings to match ship schedules.

Local Outfitter
Book Experience