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Tillamook Coast

Three Capes Scenic Route

If you’re looking for the most breathtaking views of the Tillamook Coast, the Three Capes Scenic Route is the perfect place to start. Beginning in downtown Tillamook, this short 40-mile jaunt along the water reveals some of the most majestic natural landscapes that the Oregon coast has to offer. The road is easy to follow, with ample signage that leads travelers west of Tillamook, angling around Tillamook Bay and Bay Ocean Spit, towards steep forested mountains along Cape Meares Route.

View the entire Tillamook Coastline

As the scenic route continues from Tillamook toward Oceanside , you’ll be thrilled at the mesmerizing ocean views that have been leaving people speechless for centuries. Watch the ocean meet tranquil Netarts Bay (stop a while and go clamming at this popular shellfishing spot—just make sure you have a license before you head out!) as you travel up to Cape Lookout , where you are in a prime position to see the entire Tillamook coastline. Trek through the old-growth forest and along the beach here to stretch your legs.

From there, the road takes you through the Sandlake dunes into Pacific City , where Haystack Rock juts up from the depths of the Pacific Ocean at Cape Kiwanda . Drink in the magnificent view of this iconic coastal landmark.

An easy day’s drive, with plenty of cool stops

While the Three Capes Scenic Route is an easy day’s drive, several historical sites and state parks along the way are worth stopping at to stretch your legs. After all, the very best views aren’t seen from the passenger seat of a car or RV, but after a short trek up a wooded trail.

Early on in your journey, you’ll pass by Bay Ocean Park , a now-extinct community that was once the “Atlantic City of the West.” See what’s left of this area, since the buildings were destroyed in the ’30s and ’40s by the wind and tides (sand, easily shifted by these forces, is an unstable foundation—residents and business owners learned that the hard way). As you travel south, you’ll see Cape Meares , with its short hiking trails and the iconic lighthouse and giant Octopus Tree , a Sitka spruce that’s grown into a most unusual shape! A trailhead in the area, just before you reach the parking lot, will lead you on a steep hike to the beach.

Another spot worth hopping out for? Cape Kiwanda’s Pelican Brewery and Taproom , the only beachfront brewpub in the Northwest! You can enjoy lunch and a pint as you admire the view of Haystack Rock and listen to the ocean.

Finally, Bob Straub State Park in Pacific City offers a beautiful beachy stretch where you can hunt for shells and sand dollars while you soak up the sun (or enjoy a little Oregon drizzle!).

The views are incredible in any weather condition

The views are incredible in any weather conditions, although clear weather allows for the farthest view of the coastline from the top of Cape Lookout . But any time of year you drive the Three Capes Scenic Route, it will be well worth it. Don’t forget your camera along! You won’t find a more magnificent stretch along the Oregon Coast.

Tillamook County Three Capes Cape Lookout Beach

Cape Meares Oregon Birdwatching and Photography

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three capes tours

Oregon is for Adventure

Three Capes Scenic Route on The Oregon Coast

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Running from Tillamook to Pacific City, the Three Capes Scenic Route is one of the most stunning drives on the Oregon Coast.

The route will take you past some of the most striking scenery in the area, including the three capes of Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda. Hugging the ocean, this alternative route certainly justifies leaving the highway, with new sights around every corner.

The twisting road offers glimpses of the ocean, running through quaint beach towns, dairy country, and second-growth forest. Although the drive itself is beautiful, be sure to stop at each cape and experience what each has to offer. Each headland has a distinctive ecosystem, with hikes, views, lighthouses, forests, and wildlife.

Table of Contents

How to Do The Three Capes Scenic Route?

Cape meares, cape lookout, cape kiwanda, how to do an oregon coast day trip from portland, 11 stunning things to do on the north oregon coast, a legendary oregon coast road trip—35 stops & 3 itineraries, 11 most scenic oregon coast towns (and what to do there), 17 breathtaking oregon coast hikes, 19 must-visit oregon coast state parks, 11 oregon lighthouses & the adventures nearby, 23 amazing beaches in oregon and what to do nearby, the three capes scenic route loop.

three capes tours

Starting at the town of Tillamook, US-101 veers inland for 50 miles. However, the scenic alternative is the Three Capes Scenic Route, which runs for 40 miles to Pacific City. The loop reaches the mouth of Tillamook Bay at Cape Meares.

If you’re coming from the north, from Tillamook, you’ll pass through the coastal villages of Oceanside and Netarts to reach Cape Meares. Unfortunately, the route to head north around the loop has been closed for quite some time so there’s a tiny bit of backtracking here as the map above indicates.

After heading back down, you’ll climb steadily onto the shoulder of Cape Lookout. Head a bit more south after that and you’ll reach the wild Cape Kiwanda, which sees some of the state’s wildest surf.

If you are coming from the south, you want to follow Neskowin’s signs to Pacific City and continue north. Then when you’ve reached Cape Meares, you’ll backtrack a bit and head to Tillamook to continue to your next Oregon adventure.

RELATED: 11 Adventurous Things To Do In Pacific City

There is no best time to take the Three Capes Scenic Route, although many people choose summer as the trails are less muddy and warmer. However, if you choose the winter months, you are more likely to have the capes to yourself, or visiting during the whale migration season (March-June) will give you a better chance of observing these majestic beasts.

The route can easily be done one way, as an out and back drive, or you could turn it into the Three Capes Scenic Loop by taking Route 101 back to where you started.

Foggy view of beach, islands and the ocean on the Three Capes Scenic Route

If you didn’t stop at all, the Three Capes Scenic Loop would only take you a couple of hours. Still, there is no way you will be able to fully take in the beauty of the area or each of the cape’s district personalities if you didn’t stop to take in the views, do a few hikes, relax on the beach or explore the coastal towns along the way.

If you really want to explore all that this route has to offer, you could consider turning the drive into a multi-day adventure, exploring a cape a day, or stopping for the night at one end of the route before heading back the following day.

RELATED: 11 Stunning Things To Do on the North Oregon Coast

Cape Meares is one of the most dramatic of the three capes, with vertical sea cliffs plunging into the raging Pacific below. But it is this rugged beauty that draws visitors year after year. One of the most iconic sights on the cape is Cape Meares Lighthouse which you can hike right up to.

Person sitting on bench and looking out to sea on the Cape Meares Lighthouse loop

Other points of interest include the Octopus Tree, one of the most magnificent spruces you’ll ever see. The tree is a huge 14 feet across its base, boasting big tentacle-shaped branches reaching outwards and to the sky. Big Spruce is another famous tree on the cape, the oldest Sitka spruce in Oregon, towering 144 feet high.

The cape is home to some great hikes, including up to the cape, to the beach, and points of interest, with endless viewpoints along the way. A less-traveled hike is the Cape Meares Beach Trail, taking you down the cape to a secluded, rocky beach, which can be a bit of a scramble.

Cape Meares Lighthouse with path leading to it

The Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge is a mecca for wildlife lovers, home to a huge variety of sea birds, and you may even have a chance of spotting some whales.

Two other notable features of this cape are the rock formations of Pillar Rock and Pyramid Rock, which form part of the Oregon Islands Refuge. These two sea stacks alone are estimated to harbor more than 20,000 nesting seabirds.

READ MORE: Exploring Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint

The dramatic headland of Cape Lookout juts 2-miles dramatically out into the Pacific Ocean. It dates back 15 million years from when the lava flows from Eastern Oregon poured down the Columbia River.

VW Van at beach overlook at Cape Lookout in Oregon

The state park around the cape is home to over 8-miles of trails which range from family-friendly jaunts to longer hikes that will take you all the way to the tip of the cape, where the views are breathtaking.

The Cape Lookout Trail is one of the most popular in the park, a route of about 5-miles that snakes through dense pine forest but never straying far from ocean views. Once you reach the cape, you really will understand why it is called Cape Lookout.

VW van wit person on the right side in the forest at Cape Lookout

Cape Lookout is one of the best spots for whale watching along the Oregon Coast, as the views from the peak allow you to see for miles in all directions. You are most likely to spot some of these extraordinary creatures if you visit during peak whale-watching time.

It is not just the cape that makes this park such a great spot on the coast. The shoreline below the cape is long and sandy and can be reached after crossing a wide section of cobblestones. The beach is also a popular area for beachcombing, with reports of glass floats being found here.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Cape Lookout State Park

This is the smallest cape on the route, but that doesn’t mean it should be missed. The sandstone escarpment juts half a mile out to sea, sheltering the town of Pacific City that sits below it. The buffer of Haystack Rock protects it largely from the elements and relentless pounding sea.

Unreal view at Pacific City

At its feet, the pounding tide rushes steadily in and out, carving smooth formations in the basalt. In the distance, you should see the tip of Haystack Rock, not to be confused with the rock formation of the same name at Cannon Beach .

If you come to Cape Kiwanda at the right time of day, you may be treated to the unique spectacle of the launch or return of the fleet of dory boats, a tradition that dates back to the 1920s. Another must-do activity at the cape is to hike to the top of the huge, 240-foot sand dune – it is pretty steep but completely worth the tough climb when you see the views.

READ MORE: Exploring Cape Kiwanda Near Pacific City, Oregon

Pacific City beach is a hotspot for surfers throughout the year. Surfers flock to the area to enjoy some of the longest waves on the Oregon Coast.

If hiking is not your thing, you could take a good old-fashioned stroll along the coast or explore the state natural area. The town of Pacific City is a bustling hub of hotels and restaurants, the perfect place to grab a drink before continuing on this coastal adventure.

More Things to Do on The Oregon Coast

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We hope this post helped you better explore the Three Capes Scenic Route! Check out more posts on the Oregon Coast  and even more  adventures around the state .

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Oregon native and explorer at heart. Loves tackling expeditions around the world and drinking a good beer at the end of the day. PNW obsessed, VW nerd, and surf or snow riding fanatic.

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Tillamook and the Three Capes Loop

Home / Pacific Coast / Oregon / Tillamook and the Three Capes Loop

Exterior of the Tillamook Creamery building with a large image of a cow on the front

Tillamook (pop. 5,311), where cows outnumber people, sprawls over lush grasslands at the southern end of Tillamook Bay. Its motto, “Land of cheese, trees, and ocean breeze,” conjures a clear sense of a place where the high school football team is cheered on by shouts of “Go Cheesemakers!” Tillamook (some say the name is a Salish word meaning “land of many waters”) is dominated by the Tillamook Cheese Factory at the north end of town, one of the busiest tourist draws in the state. In June 2018, the factory upgraded their visitor experience with an in-depth farm exhibit and informational videos, as well as plenty of samples and products to stock up on. A self-guided tour with informational placards traces Tillamook cheese-making from the last century to the present, while an observation area lets you watch the goods being made and packaged.

Inside viewing area of the Tillamook Creamery with windows looking into the factory space

Tillamook’s other attraction is east of US-101 and south of town. One of the world’s largest wooden structures has been preserved as the Tillamook Air Museum (503/842-1130, Tues.-Sun., $9.50 adults). Built in 1942, it’s 296 feet wide, 1,072 feet long, and nearly 200 feet tall, enclosing more than 7 acres of open-span floor space. It’s now a museum telling the story of the World War II surveillance blimps kept here by the U.S. Navy. There are also displays about other dirigible craft (like the ill-fated Hindenburg ) as well as a world-class collection of vintage airplanes (from MiG fighters to an elegant, twin-tailed P-38 Lightning), plus a theater and a restaurant, all making for a fascinating and unusual stop. The building used to be one of a pair of hangars, but the other one burned down in 1992.

Three Capes Scenic Route

US-101 veers inland for 50 miles between Tillamook and Lincoln City, the next sizable town south. If time and weather are on your side, head west along the coast via the well-signed, 40-mile-long Three Capes Scenic Route . Running northwest from Tillamook, the loop reaches the mouth of Tillamook Bay at Cape Meares, which has a restored 1890 lighthouse and an oddly contorted Sitka spruce known as the Octopus Tree.

Cape Meares Lighthouse along Oregon's Three Capes Loop

Heading south through the coastal villages of Oceanside and Netarts, the loop proceeds through dairy country until it climbs onto the shoulder of Cape Lookout , where a small sign proclaiming “Wildlife Viewing Area” marks the beginning of a 2.5-mile trail that leads through an ancient forest to the tip of the cape. Besides the coastal panorama, in winter and spring this is a prime place to view passing gray whales. From the trailhead, the middle path leads to the cape, while others to the left and right lead down to the water. Cape Lookout State Park (503/842-4981) has the area’s most popular campground, where tent sites, yurts, and cabins come with hot showers and other creature comforts.

The Oregon coast’s most famous promontory, Cape Kiwanda, sees some of the state’s wildest surf battering the sandstone headland. Across from the cape is yet another Haystack Rock, this one being a 327-foot-tall sea stack, a half mile offshore. Along the beach south of the cape, surfers ride waves while fisherfolk skid their small dories along the sands most afternoons—a sight worth hanging around to see.

The southernmost settlement on this scenic alternative to US-101 is neighboring Pacific City.

Three Capes Loop Driving Directions

Moon’s Road Trip travel guide series covers the top road trips in North America. Here are mile by mile directions excerpted from Moon Pacific Northwest Road Trip by Allison Williams, and her take on how to drive the Three Capes Loop.

Start: Tillamook, inland on U.S. 101

Cape meares: 14 miles (23 kilometers).

In Tillamook, drive west on Highway 131 (this is called 3rd Street in town) and follow it northwest for 13.5 miles (22 kilometers) to Cape Meares Lighthouse (503/842-2244). The short, squat lighthouse was built in 1889 and features a Fresnel lens. A short trail passes by interpretive signs, viewpoints, and the Octopus Tree, a 250-year-old Sitka spruce with limbs that bend at right angles.

Leaving the park, follow Bayshore Drive south for 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) to Oceanside, where the road becomes Cape Meares Loop. Turn right on Pacific Avenue and stop for a snack at Roseanna’s Café (1490 Pacific Ave. NW, 503/842-7351), located in a century-old wooden building, with plenty of seafood to match the waterfront location. After lunch, continue walking north along Pacific Avenue to explore Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site (1790-1798 Rosenberg Loop, 503/842 3182, year-round). Walk up the beach and look for a tunnel in the rocks that leads to the next beach, the aptly named Tunnel Beach (only accessible at low tide).

CAPE LOOKOUT: 8 MILES (13 KILOMETERS)

Photo of the trail through Cape Lookout State Park.

CAPE KIWANDA: 12 MILES (19 KILOMETERS)

Leaving Netarts, follow Cape Lookout Road south for a little more than 3 miles (4.8 kilometers). Turn right onto Sandlake Road and drive 8 miles (13 kilometers) to Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area (Hungry Harbor Rd. and McPhillips Dr., 503/842-3182), where Pelican Pub & Brewery (33180 Cape Kiwanda Dr., 503/965-7007) marks your final stop on this detour. Grab a cream ale or an IPA and enjoy it on one of the patio tables outside. The microbrewery also serves yummy burgers, seafood, and pizza (in case your lunch has worn off).

End: Tillamook (25 miles/40 kilometers) or Lincoln City (20 miles/32 kilometers)

To complete the loop, return to U.S. 101 by taking Cape Kiwanda Drive south for 1 mile. Turn left onto Pacific Avenue, and then make an immediate right onto Brooten Road, just after the bridge. Follow Brooten Road for 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) to U.S. 101. Take U.S. 101 north for 25 miles (40 kilometers) back to Tillamook, or drive south for 20 miles (32 kilometers) to Lincoln City to continue exploring the coast.

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Map of Oregon's Three Capes Scenic Route near Tillamook from Moon Coastal Oregon travel guide

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Three Capes Scenic Loop

Waves on the shore of a beach on the Three Capes Scenic Loop Tour from Tillamook to Pacific City

Duration: 5 hours (approx) Location: Pacific City, Oregon

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History and sights to be had – join us on a journey following the coast north from Pacific City, then circle back through the charming small towns along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. Our Three Capes Scenic Loop tour offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and breathtaking sights that will leave you captivated. This tour is approximately 5 hours long, providing ample time to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Oregon Coast and create lasting memories.

Our van can accommodate up to 14 guests, but we recommend a more comfortable experience with 12.

Enjoy door-to-door service and feel free to share any special requests and we’ll try our best to fulfill them. This tour is private and customizable, so stop when and where you want, or leave it up to your guide for a fun and exciting time.

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Three Capes Signature Walk

Day 1: Hobart - Crescent Lodge

Day 2: crescent lodge - cape pillar lodge, day 3: cape pillar lodge return, day 4: cape pillar lodge - fortescue bay, three capes signature walk.

True to traditional moderate grade. Suitable to active fitness levels. 

Walk rating out of five from 2,912 guest reviews.

Read what our guests have to say about Three Capes / Tasman Peninsula .

Ready to walk the world’s edge? Journey along some of the world’s highest sea cliffs with The Three Capes Signature Walk, the only fully guided Three Capes Track experience with accommodation inside the National Park.  The experience begins with salty wind in your hair – a boat cruise across to Denman’s Cove. It’s then onward to Crescent Bay Lodge, sitting loftily with views across to Cape Raoul.

Day two includes summiting Arthurs Peak (keep an eye out for sea eagles), making our way to Cape Pillar Lodge, home for the next two nights.  Perhaps a massage or invigorating outdoor bath while dinner is being prepared? Your pick for day three – an adventure through silver gum forest out to Cape Pillar and the infamous Blade or lazing the day away at the lodge.  We must say, the views out to Tasman Island from the Blade are something else.

Those with plenty of kilometres left in the legs can take a side trip on the final day out to Cape Hauy while others can choose a direct route to Fortescue Bay. From here, we’ll take you back to Hobart where we’ll raise a glass to our four days well spent!

Prices from $3,395 pp

Three Capes Signature Walk Map

Approximately 2 hours walking

At the start of your walk we will pick you up from MACq01 between 9.00am - 9.10am,  followed by the Old Woolstore between 9.05am - 9.15am. Or make your way down to our walkers base (164 Murray Street, Hobart) at 9.30am. Here you will meet your guides and have a briefing.

Upon arrival at Stewarts Bay we will make our way down to the jetty where our private boat will be waiting to depart for our short trip across to Denman’s Cove at 1.15pm. Cruising with views back to Port Arthur, aside from the possible seal and dolphin spotting, some of the highest dolerite cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere come into view, an indication of the drama to come.

A short wade ashore from the boat signals your arrival at Denman’s Cove. On day one, please wear shorts, zip-off walking trousers or pants that can be rolled above your knees. You may encounter knee-high waters, depending on where sandbanks have formed. At the beach, we’ll fuel you with local produce for lunch, in preparation for a gentle walk through coastal woodland to the rocky refuge of Surveyors Cove. At this point, if the Southern Ocean begs, head for a dip before a gradual incline up to the lodge.

Crescent Lodge is perched high, with far stretching views across Crescent Bay to Cape Raoul, with guest rooms spilling into the gully. Settle in with a warm shower as your guides-come-chefs prepare a three-course feast of local fare. Post dinner, take your Tassie pinot to a quiet deck for your own private sunset.

We pick up from MACq01 bwetween 9.00am - 9.10am and  The Woolstore at between 9.05am  - 915am, or you can make your own way to our walker’s base at 164 Murray Street Hobart for a 9.30am start. If you are staying at The Henry Jones Art Hotel  you are across the street from MACq01 so please cross the road for your shuttle.  When we reach our base in Hobart we will have a gear check and briefing before departing for Stewarts Bay.

Gallery image 1

Approximately 5 hours walking

Wake to the silence of Crescent Lodge and wander down to the stunning dining room for a hearty breakfast to start the day. From here, head due south with views across Safety Cove and Maingon Bay to Bruny Island. Climbing Arthurs Peak, 300 metres above sea level, is worth the oceanic vista. In these parts, White Bellied Sea Eagles soar in the thermal currents, so be sure to look skyward. Lunch isn’t far away, an easy downhill descent to south-facing cliffs where pelagic seabirds are plenty - albatross, petrels and gannets. Here, there’s nothing between you and Antarctica.

Following lunch, skirt the edge of Tornado Ridge before heading south toward Cape Pillar Lodge, your base for the next two nights. Your pace might quicken in the knowledge there is a massage, facial or relaxation bath on offer at Cape Pillar Lodge.

Gallery image 1

Approximately 6 hours walking (optional)

This is the most adventurous day of your journey. Today you’ll walk through silver gum forest (Eucalyptus Tenuiramis), a species endemic to the area, out to the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. There’s little wonder Cape Pillar has been afforded other names – Hurricane Heath and Desolation Gully. A side trip to The Blade is a must, with staggering views across to Tasman Island.

Lunch is served at Chasm Lookout – with Tasman Island’s weathered lighthouse in sight. It’s then a direct return journey home to Cape Pillar Lodge where the relaxation pavilion, three-course goodness and ocean views await. By now, walking strangers might just have become firm friends. Unlace the boots, read a book with sea breeze in your toes.

Those with a penchant for pampering can forego today’s walk and spend the day at Cape Pillar Lodge. Enjoy one of our relaxing treatments ranging from 30 to 60 minutes and immerse yourself in the enchanting surrounds.

Gallery image 1

Approximately 6 hours walking (Cape Hauy side trip optional - an extra 2 hours)

Time to farewell Cape Pillar's safe forest haven. From here you’ll cross Retakunna Creek (local indigenous dialect for creaking trees) en route to a patch of rainforest. Breathe it in – lush mosses, ferns and vibrant greens. Next mission is the peninsula’s highest peak, Mount Fortescue, climbing some 490 metres above sea level.  Enjoy lunch with leafy-framed ocean views overlooking The Monument.

Take the side trip and enjoy the majesty of Cape Hauy - or simply remain with the group for a final cliff-walk descent onto the cool white sands of Fortescue Bay. This is your chance to drop the pack and sink your toes in pristine sands or perhaps take a celebratory dive into the crystal clear waves.  We will then travel back to Hobart (approximately 5.45pm) via the airport (approximately 5.30pm).  We will finish in Hobart with a glass of celebratory bubbles.

After, we’ll return you to the airport or the front door you left four days back. Alternately, stay and discover the Tasman Peninsula’s local produce, wines, whiskies, lavender, uncrowded beaches and more.

If you have any queries don't hesitate to  contact us; T +61 (0)3 6392 2211

Book Three Capes Signature Walk

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We're here to help 9am – 5pm Monday to Saturday, otherwise, email us anytime and we'll be in touch.

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Want to know more about our Three Capes / Tasman Peninsula Walks?

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Try our other Three Capes / Tasman Peninsula Walks

Three Capes Adventure Walk

Experience more of the Three Capes on a challenging three day guided walk in the Tasman National Park, retreating to our private eco camp and lodges within the national park.

Three Capes Long Weekend

Reconnect with nature with breathtaking day walks, indulge in divine food and wine and spend nights in our private eco camp on a three day guided walking escape.

Three Capes Adventure Walk

Walk to all Three Capes on the Three Capes Track  on a challenging five-day guided walk in the Tasman National Park, retreating to our private eco camp and lodges within the national park.

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The three capes scenic route – the road you’ll never want to leave.

three capes scenic route

In Oregon, we take the scenic route, through forest sanctuaries, past coastal vistas, and across rivers and desert plains. We cherish our long drives, which is why the Three Capes Scenic Route is such a vital part of the state's experience. This 40-mile car tour gives us a full view of the marvel that is western Oregon.

Three Capes Scenic Route (An Unofficial Guide)

With 40 miles of natural bliss and plenty to see and do along the way, the Three Capes Scenic Route is perfect for both casual and serious adventurers. There are quaint towns for pit stops and shopping, miles of hiking trails and forest, and three enormous rock promontories: Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda--all breathtakingly beautiful and ripe for exploration.

The route is short. It can be completed in less than a day, even if you're coming from Portland metro. But if you really want the full experience, you're going to want to stop, hike, and eat. Maybe spend a night camping, or enjoy a relaxing evening in a nearby hotel.

three capes scenic route

Where to Start

The road begins in Tillamook, where you'll find idyllic pastoral settings, green hills, and rows of vineyards. There's much to see in this tiny town, including a cheese factory named after the city's famous brand of Tillamook dairy products. It's interesting to see the way their products are made, and there's a gift shop along with an ice creamery. But cheesemaking gives off a horrific smell, and the real destinations are closer to the coast.

You can start by heading west on Highway 131 (3rd street), where the countryside falls away and the woods thicken until they become a dark, almost impenetrable boundary on all sides. On cold days, the mist comes wafting out from between the trees, hovering above the road. You definitely feel like you're entering the wild, but it won't last long. Pretty soon, the trees will turn to shrubs and succulents, and the smell of pine and moss will be replaced by sea salt and ocean air.

Netarts is the first coastal city on the Three Capes Scenic Route. Its name means 'near the water'. It was established at the site of the earliest known settlement of the Tillamook tribe. Today it's a small town with barely 700 people, known for its thin stretch of sandy coastline, called Netarts Spit.

three capes scenic route

When you reach Netarts, you will come to a fork in the road, where signs for the Three Capes Scenic Route point to the left and also straight ahead. Go straight, towards Cape Meares, or cross it off your list and turn left to head south towards Cape Lookout.

On that same corner, you'll find a boat-to-table restaurant called The Schooner . Their mix of salty, fresh-caught seafood and locally sourced produce will have your mouth watering for hours, even after you're finished. It's places like this that make people travel across the country just to sample a taste of our coastline.

three capes scenic route

When you follow Highway 131 north, you will come to the small coastal town of Oceanside. With a population of only a few hundred, this community is centered around its main beach. It's a popular place for surfing, tide pooling, and agate hunting. There's also a small series of islands off the coast called the Three Arch Rocks Wildlife Refuge, set up to preserve the local seabird population.

If you have kids, or you need to take a break, this beach is for you. If not, you might want to skip it and head further north towards Cape Meares.

three capes scenic route

Cape Meares

The road to Cape Meares twists and turns through lush hills and forests. At times it straddles the coast, offering views that would make any camera drool. It is magical. There are crests of seafoam grappling against cliff rock, and hills of Sitka spruce stretching into the clouds. Sometimes, if you come on a sunny day, the water becomes a radiant, crystal blue, so clear you can see the ripples in the sand beneath.

It's tempting to look, but part of the allure comes from navigating the curves precisely, showing off your driving skills while taking in the sea air. There are plenty of chances to savor the view when you reach the cape.

three capes scenic route

Cape Meares is home to one of the last stands of old-growth forest on the Oregon coast. Trails snake through darkened woods, where ancient spruce stand tall against winds reaching up to 100 mph. Branches and trunks inevitably break away, leaving rotting behemoths scattered across the forest floor.

three capes scenic route

When you first arrive at the main entrance to the park, you'll see a short path leading to what is known as the Octopus Tree . Named for its sprawling limbs resembling tentacles, this Sitka spruce seems to have taken on a shape that's not found in nature. Check out our guide to this amazing tree here .

Another Sitka has made quite a name for itself on Cape Meares. Known as the Big Spruce, this behemoth is believed to be the largest of its species in the state. At over 100 feet tall and 48 feet in circumference, it's estimated to be more than 700 years old. The roots themselves tower up to fifteen feet above the ground.

three capes scenic route

When you're hiking near the cliffs, keep an eye on the ocean, especially during late March to early June. Gray whales make their annual migration to Alaska during this time. It's not uncommon to see them spraying mist into the air or popping their heads up to greet onlookers. If you're lucky, you might even see a belly flop. Keep your phone in hand. You never know when they'll make an appearance. If you're interested in learning more, check out our whale spotting guide .

three capes scenic route

Cape Meares Lighthouse seems stunted, especially when compared to the towers we've grown accustomed to seeing, but its height puts it at a great advantage. It was built well below the fog line, and it boasts an impressive kerosene lens, visible from more than 20 miles offshore.

The hike to the lighthouse is short but eventful. You'll walk a quarter-mile from the parking lot, which used to be the location of the lightkeeper's residence, to the edge of the cliffs at the very tip of the cape. Dolphins, porpoises, and sea lions are known to show up from time to time. Birdwatchers come from far and wide, hoping to catch a glimpse of the many species that make the cliffs their home, including Brandt’s cormorants and peregrine falcons.

Unfortunately, the lighthouse has had issues with rockslides and erosion, making it inaccessible for long periods of time--years even. There have been improvements on the roadways, but it's best to check ahead to be sure. Also, if weather conditions are harsh, it would probably be best to skip this cape and move on to the next one.

three capes scenic route

Cape Lookout

There's nothing more exhilarating than standing at the top of a 400-foot cliff and staring down at the waves, especially after a long trek through the woods. Cape Lookout is a thrill, meant to be treasured. It's a theme park for Oregonians. It has everything we love, and it's only a short drive from Cape Meares. Backtrack along the coast to Netarts, where you'll make a right on Netart Bay Drive.

You'll travel parallel to the bay, along clear, shallow waters interrupted by streaks of sand and patches of grass. The spit looms in the distance, holding back the sea. Berry brambles and pastures stretch for miles on your left until the road begins to veer east, over rivers and into the forest, never straying far from the coast.

When the trees start to thin, you'll see signs for Cape Lookout State Park. The park encompasses more than just the cape itself. It includes Netarts Spit, the area south of the spit, and the peninsula that branches out into the promontory. There is a day-use area roughly 2.5 miles down the road where you can get closer to the cape, but it would be a shame to miss what the park has to offer.

three capes scenic route

Cape Lookout State Park

Cape Lookout State Park is an amazing experience. There are beaches, camping, and hiking--plenty of chances to forest bathe, let your kids run around, or get your feet wet in the water. There's so much, and it's all so magnificent. If you make one stop on the Three Capes Scenic Route, this should be the one, even for just a moment.

The park features a 5-mile loop known as the Cape Trail. It stretches down along the coast and across the peninsula to the tip of the promontory. It then loops back to the main camping area where it started. The trail takes several hours to complete, and it's really not for children unless you go during the summertime when the mud is dry, but experienced hikers will find it easy enough. The path runs along cliffs--far enough away to ensure your safety, but close enough to get your adrenaline pumping--and the views from the northern and southern coasts will take your breath away, especially when skies are clear.

The forest trek is just as rewarding. There's moss-laden spruce and hemlock, surrounded by primeval fern. The trail is notorious for whale watching. It's more intimate than Cape Meares, where groups of people sometimes gather. On Cape Trail, you can scan the water alone and catch that one short glimpse, without having to share it with anyone. It's beautiful.

The trail can be slippery and muddy. It's not always flat, so make sure you use ferns and rocks as handholds. It's best to wear durable, waterproof boots. You're also going to encounter large puddles of water, so think about bringing along a pair of hiking poles. But it is well worth it. Once you reach the edge of the cape, and you see the view from 400 feet, you won't believe your eyes. It's like hovering over the ocean: nothing but you, the sky, and the sea.

For those who would prefer a more casual, family-friendly hike, the North Trail is relatively substantial and also easy to complete. It covers much of the same ground and begins at the day-use area, south of the state park entrance. It's 2.3 miles--roughly half the length of the Cape Trail--and it extends westwards to the edge of the promontory.

Sometimes the trails are closed for various reasons. Erosion and high-force winds can cause trouble. Look for closures on the park's website . Also, try to avoid hazardous weather. The coast isn't known for being the most hospitable environment. Extreme cold, wind, and rain can cause more than discomfort.

It would take days to see the entire park, and it's such an amazing environment. Camping is highly recommended. Luckily there are a variety of options available. The park offers cabins, yurts, and campsites, as well as hot showers and flush toilets, among other amenities.

Parking is $5 per vehicle. There are day-use parking permits available on-site, as well as year-round permits online. This rule also applies to the day-use parking area at Cape Lookout. For more information on camping, parking, amenities, closures, or to make a reservation, check out the State Parks website.  You'll also find amazing photos of the park and an explanation of the trails.

three capes scenic route

Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda is the smallest cape on our tour, but it is considered to be the most picturesque, and it is definitely the most popular. Located just north of Pacific City, the last stop on the scenic route, the cliff face is comprised of contoured sandstone, sculpted by one of the strongest surfs on the Oregon coast. The only thing protecting it from crumbling into the sea is Haystack Rock, a 300-foot basalt formation, designated as a wildlife refuge for seabirds and marine mammals.

Cape Kiwanda is a reminder of the power of the ocean. It is constantly eroding and growing smaller before our eyes. The hike to the top is steep and bare, almost like entering a small desert, though a few trees and swatches of grass have managed to cling to the cliffside; this is Oregon after all.

Since this is the last stop, try to make the climb at sunset, when the sun is hovering over the water, and the sandstone glows bright orange. When twilight takes hold, have a walk on the beach, a popular area for surfers and dory fishing boats. Cars used to be able to drive up onto the sand, but it became too dangerous for pedestrians. Now beachgoers have to hike, which means it's less crowded.

Cape Kiwanda is part of a greater recreational area that bears the same name. There are trails through the dunes, kayaking, and plenty of other activities. If you'd like, you can stay the night at the Inn at Cape Kiwanda or grab a beer at the oceanfront Pelican Brewing Company . There's also shopping and dining.

If you'd rather make the journey back home, and finish the last leg of the Three Capes Scenic route, take Cape Kiwanda Drive south. Make a right on Pacific Avenue, then a right on Brooten Road. Take Brooten all the way to Highway 101. If you follow the highway north, 25 miles, through lush hills and thin forests, you'll reach your starting point, Tillamook, or you could embark on another coastal adventure and take the highway south to Lincoln City . The choice is yours.

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Three Capes Scenic Drive - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

  • (5.58 mi) Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa
  • (5.59 mi) Inn At Cape Kiwanda
  • (7.07 mi) Cape Lookout Bed n Breakfast
  • (5.60 mi) Hart's Camp Airstream Hotel & RV Park
  • (4.70 mi) Cape Lookout State Park
  • (6.36 mi) The Grateful Bread Bakery & Restaurant
  • (5.61 mi) Stimulus Coffee + Bakery
  • (5.66 mi) BJ's Burgers and Tacos
  • (6.52 mi) Beach Walk
  • (6.50 mi) Sportsman's Pub-n-Grub

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Three Capes – Tasmania

The Tasman Peninsula is a short 90min drive from Hobart, even less from the airport.  The peninsula is both home to Australia’s most infamous penal colony, the historic Port Arthur Penal Colony and now also the Three Capes Walk .

This walk is Tasmania’s premium coastal walking experience as it traverses one of Australia’s most dramatic and inhospitable landscapes. The original settlers chose this location in part due to the insurmountable prospect of escape. Fortunately, we benefit from the well-maintained tracks as we escape through the same dense forest and up and over the most dramatic escarpments that kept the early inhabitants trapped.

The Tasman Peninsula is one of the most striking parts of Tasmania and the walk incorporates all the best parts including the iconic towering sea stacks, the highest vertical sea cliffs in Australia. Wander over the 190 million-year-old dolerite columns and via a great variety of landscapes, as the track winds in and out of temperate rainforest heathland, dry woodland and over striking sections of coastline.

The turquoise waters and white sandy beach of Fortescue Bay and Waterfall Bay area are a welcome change-up from the cliff-hugging walking experience that characterises most of the track. The massive seas at Cape Hauy, Cape Raoul and the amazing Shipsterns Bluff,  one of the preeminent big wave surf locations worldwide, is an amazing side-show to this already amazing adventure.

What’s more whales and dolphins are regular visitors to the areas as are albatross, sea eagles, peregrine falcons, diving gannets and cliff-nesting cormorants. All make this their home in or around the ocean surrounding Tasman Peninsula National Park .

Walk each day with the confidence that you’re being looked after by one of Australia’s oldest walking companies and two experienced guides.  The self-guided version of Three Capes walk allows you to walk with your own friends, when you want at your own pace. What’s more you’ll stay in comfort, eat chef-prepared 2-course dinners, cooked breakfasts and enjoy lunch at some of the most epic locations Australia has to offer.

Three Capes, Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur – 4 Days

Self-guided.

Three Capes , Cape Hauy and  Cape Raoul, Waterfall Bay, Fortescue Bay and Port Arthur. Dramatic coastline of sea caves and towering sea stacks.

  • All transport including private transfers to and from Hobart
  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 3 nights’ comfortable accommodation with ensuites
  • Chef prepared restaurant meals
  • Cooked breakfasts and walker lunches
  • Auswalk guide pack including comprehensive walk notes, maps, lunch bag and container

Three Capes Walk, Tasman Peninsula – 4 Days

Group-guided.

Hike at Cape Hauy, Cape Raoul and Fortescue Bay, Canoe Bay Tasman Arch, Blow Holes, Waterfall Bay. Visit Port Arthur and see the region from the sea on an Eco wildlife boat cruise.

  • Visit all 3 Capes, including Cape Pillar with a Boat cruise and wildlife watching
  • 2 engaging, knowledgeable and experienced guides
  • 3 nights’ comfortable accommodation in 2 bedroom chalets, so you will have a private bedroom/bathroom, and share the common area’s of the chalet with the other bedrooms’ occupants.
  • All transport from Hobart and luggage transport
  • Auswalk guide pack including notes, maps, lunch bag, container and National Park admission

Bay of Fires, Freycinet, Wineglass Bay and the Three Capes – 7 Days

A walking symphony in 3 movements. Bay of Fires with its pink granite, orange lichen boulders & white beaches. Freycinet Peninsula & Wineglass Bay.

  • 6 nights private accommodation in rooms with ensuites
  • 6 cooked breakfasts and 6 dinners prepared by professional chefs with an emphasis on Tasmanian local produce
  • Comprehensive walkers lunches every day augmented by Auswalk’s trail mix
  • All transport from Launceston to Hobart
  • National park admission
  • Auswalk guide pack including notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag and container

Three Capes, Mount Brown and Port Arthur – 5 Days

Three Capes , Cape Hauy and  Cape Raoul, Waterfall Bay, Fortescue Bay and Port Arthur. A sublime coastline of sea caves and towering sea stacks.

  • 4 nights’ comfortable accommodation
  • Chef-prepared restaurant meals at Stewarts Bay
  • Flora and Fauna

5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE WALKING THE 3 CAPES

Climate/weather, walking essentials, travel in tasmania.

Auswalk will provide you with all the comforts you need to have a splendid walk and relaxing experience. You can choose either a self-guided or group-guided Three Capes walking holiday. You will stay in our favourite accommodations, taste the delicious fresh produce of the region. You get to traverse the trails with nothing more than a light day pack, and we will take care of the rest.

Auswalk provides two self-guided and two guided Three Capes walking holidays for your pleasure. Effectively Auswalk provides a lot more as they can customize any of their walks to suit, adding more or taking away days to suit each walker’s specialised needs.

Flora & Fauna

The pine-like trees on the track with woody nuts are Tasmanian Native Cypress Pines ( Callitris rhomboidea ) – the scientific name describes the interesting shape of the nuts quite well! You may also encounter Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoos in this area. These fabulous birds mainly eat seeds including gum trees, banksias, hakeas, and grass trees. They also dismember seed cones looking for wood-boring insects. The birds here belong to a subspecies found only in Tasmania ( Calyptorhynchus funereus xanthanotus ).

The exposed, rocky high points on the 3 Capes Track are dominated by hardy alpine shrubs like Pinkberries and other heath species. In January, the track may be lined with pink wildflowers. These are Trigger Plants ( Stylidium ). The name refers to the pollination mechanism of the flowers. When an insect lands on one of the blooms, their weight triggers the spring-loaded white “floral column” ( fused stigma + anthers ) to dab it with pollen, & at the same time reciprocally collect any pollen that the insect may already be carrying. The tall, spindly looking plants along the walk, with strappy leaves arranged in spiral clusters are Pineapple Candleheath, a Tasmanian alpine endemic ( Richea dracophylla ).

You will also see many conifer-like trees with long, thin, drooping green branches on the last section of the walk. Depending on the season, these trees may have small, fleshy, red-orange fruits with a green seed embedded in them. These are also known as Native Cherries ( Exocarpus cupressiformis ) which are edible when ripe. Give one a try when you are there! They really are quite tasty.

You will likely see many Banksias in flower on the Tasman Peninsula. These are Silver Banksias ( B. marginata – also found in VIC, NSW, ACT, and SA). They may grow up to 9m in height but will start to produce flowers as soon as they are over 1m tall. Silver Banksias are significant producers of nectar for birds and insects in this region. You will hear the “eee-gypt” call of the Crescent Honeyeater around the Banksias.

The Tasman Peninsula and the 3 Capes area is a haven for wildlife from the tiniest of Pygmy possums to wombats,  Seals,  Whales, Dolphins, Tasmanian Devils and wallabies.

Long-Nosed Fur Seals ( Arctocephalus forsteri ) are becoming more common to the area now they are not hunted. Approx. 75 – 100 individuals may be hauled out here. During the 1800s, these fur seals were hunted almost to extinction for their thick fur coats. They are now slowly recovering. This species is found in Tasmania, Western Australia, South Australia, and New Zealand. In Tasmanian waters, it mainly occurs on the west and south coasts. Only a small number of long-nosed fur seals (also sometimes known as the New Zealand fur seal) breed on remote islands off the south coast. The total population in Tasmania is 350 – 450. About 100 pups are born annually. Australia-wide, the population is estimated to be 58,000. Their main prey includes redbait, jack mackerel, and lantern fish. They also eat seabirds such as little penguins and shearwaters.

There are two wallaby species in the peninsula, the endemic Tasmanian pademelon found nowhere else on earth and Bennetts wallabies. They are easy to spot as you walk as their numbers are fairly high now that they are protected.

The Tasmanian bettong and Long-nosed potoroo, also both macropods, are more likely to be seen at night, possibly around your accommodations. Macropods are the common name given to marsupials that generally have largish hind legs.

Through the day you are likely to spot Echidnas, Blue-tongue lizards sunning themselves and a wide variety of other fauna. Echidnas are monotremes, egg laying mammals, the other being platypus. Their spiky exterior is the defence to any threat from predators.

Birdlife includes Tasmanian rosellas, Tasmanian native hens and White-bellied sea eagles which breed on the peninsula. If you look hard owls and tawny frogmouth roosting in the trees, even through the day.

Common wombats are prolific in the area, although generally nocturnal, they can be seen before dusk scratching away searching and foraging for food. A koala’s closest living relative they can actually grow up to 1.3m long and weigh up to 35 kgs. Interestingly they have been clocked running at speeds of 40 km per hour and their poo is cube-shaped.

Tasmanian devils have a fearsome reputation but they are actually shy. These were reintroduced by Tasmanian Parks. They are a marsupial with sharp teeth and an otherwordly howl, which led to them to being called a devil by the early settlers. Devils are carnivores and can weigh up to 14kgs, however they mostly eat carrion, but they do hunt down snakes, birds, insects and fish.

Lastly, it is worth mentioning the common brushtail and ringtail possums, they are loving it on the peninsula, with limited predation, previously mostly by humans, they are easy to spot in the evening in eucalypt trees that surround the accommodations.

WHERE IS THE THREE CAPES WALK LOCATED?

The Three Capes walk is on the Tasman Peninsula, which is located in the south-east of Tasmania. On the way to the peninsula, you will drive through some of Tasmania’s rich heritage, rolling vineyards and hills. It is approximately 100 kms from CBD Hobart a travel time of about 90 minutes by vehicle.

Please Note: The official Three Capes Track route does not go to all three Capes, just two of them, we also only walk to two of the Capes. Please read the itinerary or see the Highlights for further information.

WHAT LEVEL OF FITNESS DO YOU RECOMMEND?

We expect people to have a reasonable level of fitness. Regular physical exercise in the lead up to the trip is recommended. This can be from walking, cycling, going to the gym or a combination of these. You will walk an average of 11kms each day. Some of the walking has an up and down component, mixed in with flat and undulating sections of track. If you exercise regularly, have a moderate to good walking fitness level and feel capable of walking up to 5 to 6 hours a day, this walk is for you.

HOW CHALLENGING IS THE WALK?

Most of the tracks are in first rate condition. Some of the walks include sections of walking up and down again, but this is compensated by shorter walking distances overall. Full day walks average 10-15 kms. There are great opportunities for fit walkers to challenge themselves as there is plenty of additional walking that you can take up.

DO YOU HAVE AN INCENTIVE PROGRAM?

Walking with Auswalk gives you exclusive access to our incentive program. We love our Auswalkers and want to make it easy for you to return for another holiday. Here’s what we offer:

  • Frequent Walker Points: Just by going on a holiday with us, you will earn 100 Frequent Walker Points which you can redeem for a $100 discount (per person) off your next Auswalk trip. These points are valid for 2 years. If you use your points on a new booking of a value greater than $2300 per person, and within 2 months of completing your previous holiday, we will double the points for you. This means that you will have 200 Frequent Walker Points to redeem as a $200 discount (per person) off your new booking. Please note: You can only use a maximum of 1 set of double points ($200) per new booking and points can’t be used in conjunction with any other offer.
  • Save if your group is 5 or more with a 5% discount for all walkers. Full payment will be invoiced when booking. At the time of final payment the discount will be applied when the numbers are confirmed. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

DO I HAVE TO PAY A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FEE IF I'M A SOLO WALKER?

Australian hotel accommodations (like the ones we use) charge the same, or just about the same price, regardless of whether there is one or two people in the room. This means that to cover the cost of the accommodation for your trip we do need to pass on a single supplement surcharge. This isn’t a cost that we make any margin on and it is simply to cover the fact that the total room cost isn’t being apportioned over two walkers.

CAN YOU RECOMMEND ANY PRE/POST WALK ACCOMMODATION?

There are numerous accommodations in Hobart. We suggest staying close to Salamanca Place and the waterfront. The options are vast and will depend entirely on your budget.

You may also like to visit the TripAdvisor and search for other options to best suit your budget and lifestyle.

WHAT LEVEL OF ACCOMMODATION DO YOU PROVIDE?

All the accommodations have been chosen to reflect the character of the region. Accommodations will range from small local hotels to lodges; you can be assured that wherever you stay, you will be warmly welcomed. Most importantly, the accommodations are in great locations and have all the necessary facilities to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

WHAT WILL BE INCLUDED IN MY PRE-DEPARTURE PACK?

You will receive an information pack before departure, including:

  • Map, Map case, luggage tag and pen
  • Insulated lunch bag, expandable lunch box, reusable cutlery and other useful bits and pieces
  • Comprehensive track notes developed by and authored by Auswalk with all the detail that will be needed to walk the Three Capes Walk.

CAN YOU CATER FOR SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

On our walks, we can cater for specific dietary requirements. Please kindly provide this information when completing your booking form and only provide us with a list of your allergies or those food items that you absolutely cannot eat.

WILL I HAVE WI-FI ACCESS?

Wi-Fi access will be available at the accommodations along the track.

WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE?

See the Bureau of Meteorology for information about temperatures and rainfall ahead of time to ensure proper clothing. Spring and autumn are a great time to walk on the Tasman Peninsula. Summer can be a little warmer but with average temperatures of only 18 degrees. Winter is often written off as a time not to visit Tasmania, let alone walk because of the rain. Layers will be your best friend in these parts. However, if you look at the mean average rainfall it isn’t that much more than in summer. The average temperature in winter does, however, fall to 11 degrees so come prepared with warm clothes and good rain gear (realistically year round). See gear advice section in FAQ’s for more information.

WHAT WILDLIFE MAY I ENCOUNTER IN THIS REGION?

An abundance of animals and birds exist in this region. Wallabies, echidnas, wombats, pygmy, brushtail and ringtail possums, the Tasmanian bettong, long nosed potoroo, blue tongue lizards and Tasmanian devils (they are actually quite shy) to name a few.

Bird life includes Tasmanian rosellas, Tasmanian native hens and White-bellied sea eagles which breed on the peninsula.

Snakes are also most likely to be around in the summer months. They will usually move away from the sound and vibration of human activity. Did you know that Tasmania has only 3 species of snakes? Tiger, lowland copperhead and white-lipped snakes.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO KEEP TO THE WALKING TRACKS?

By keeping to the walking track it reduces erosion, protects native vegetation and the spread of cinnamon fungus (it is a lethal disease that has serious consequences for many Australian habitats). You are also less likely to have a close encounter with snakes, ants, leeches, wasps, bees and ticks.

WHAT ARE YOUR LUGGAGE REQUIREMENTS?

You are allowed up to 23kgs of luggage, please no heavier as it may cause problems. Please also be aware that you may have to move your luggage to and from your room on some occasions, however, your luggage is transferred while you walk.

WILL I NEED WATERPROOF CLOTHING?

A waterproof jacket is ideal. It serves two functions – to keep you dry and to keep the wind out. Cheaper plastic or nylon raincoats are good for keeping the rain out, but unfortunately, they do not breathe meaning that you’ll still get wet from condensation and not really suitable for any walk.

By far the best jackets are made from waterproof and breathable fabrics such as Gore-Tex. These wick your body moisture through the Gore-Tex material to the outside of the jacket through one-way pores. Goretex and other similar jackets aren’t cheap, but most of the quality outdoor equipment stores have sales where prices can often be reduced by substantial amounts. And they last a lifetime! Your waterproof jacket is a practical item, designed to keep you warm, dry and comfortable in the bush and warm in areas where there is a risk of being cold.

WHAT CLOTHING SHOULD I PACK FOR COLD CONDITIONS?

Depending on the time of year you are visiting it can get quite cold, especially at night. A warm jumper is a must. The best material these days is polar fleece or equivalents as they are lightweight and dry very quickly if they get wet. Wool, on the other hand, is heavy and takes a long time to dry. Cotton is not appropriate. A warm hat is also desirable. Did you know that you lose 40% of your body heat through your head? So if you’re feeling cold, don a hat and feel the difference.

WHAT CLOTHING SHOULD I PACK FOR WALKING THROUGHOUT THE DAY?

We recommend thin synthetic materials for walking. Cotton can get damp from perspiration.

Shirts should have collars and sleeves to help prevent sunburn. Long sleeves that can be either rolled up or rolled down are a good idea. Light colours will keep you cooler. Specialist shirts have vents to allow for airflow.

Shorts are great for hot weather, but remember to use plenty of sunscreen. Long trousers are great for sun protection and also for cooler weather. Trousers that have “zip off” legs are a good compromise.

A sun hat is essential. Choose a hat with a brim all the way round as this keeps off more heat and sun than either baseball caps or a soft floppy cotton hats. Good hats also come with some mesh ventilation in the middle and a chinstrap to keep it on when the wind blows. Choose a hat that packs easily into your case and daypack. Sunglasses are also essential.

WHAT FOOTWEAR DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR WALKING?

We strongly recommend wearing proper hiking boots or shoes as they provide added ankle support. One thing is for sure if you buy a new pair of walking boots/shoes make sure you break them in before you come on holiday.

Here are some further considerations:

Boots versus walking shoes – that’s largely an issue of personal preference. Walking shoes don’t provide anywhere near as much ankle support as boots though.

The weight of the footwear is important. You only need something suitable for day hikes on tracks – not to climb Mt Everest in! There’s an old saying that 100 grams on your feet is equivalent to 500 on your back.

The shoes should wrap around the foot with an even, snug hold over all parts of your foot. You should look for comfort across the balls of the feet. Your toes should not press together or touch the end of the boot – this is especially important for downhill walking. Your heel should not move inside the boot when you walk. And a laced up boot should not put pressure on the top of your foot or hurt your ankle.

Leather has been the long-time favourite with many walkers but these days leather is generally only used in heavier boots, which are mostly not necessary for day walks. Most light – medium-weight boots are of good quality and have synthetic uppers. These are durable but do not keep the water out. If you can pay some more, have a look at boots with a waterproof membrane such as Gore-Tex. The membrane is a very clever product built into the boot material so, though it can’t be seen, it lasts for the life of the boot. Dry feet will be more comfortable, smell less, and be less likely to blister if conditions get tough.

The soles of the boots are extremely important. Look for soles that are thick enough to protect your feet against sharp rocks that might press into the sole, and with a chunky pattern that will provide better grip on slippery tracks. A Vibram sole is good quality – look for the yellow brand on the sole of the boots.

Finally, we often see people who are wearing cheap, ill-fitting, loose, sloppy socks, which is an absolute recipe for disaster! Wear socks that fit firmly. Spend that bit extra and buy socks with shaped heels and good cushioning – your feet with thank you at the end of the day! Some people like to wear one pair of socks, others prefer two pair…..it is up to you. Once again, avoid loose socks that are too big.

DO YOU RECOMMEND GAITERS FOR THIS TRIP?

We don’t believe gaiters are essential for this walk, however, you may decide otherwise. Gaiters are designed to keep rain, grass seeds, sand, mud, leeches and other unwanted items out of the top of your boots. They come in a full range of sizes from huge mountaineering styles through to short, lightweight ones. Most of them wrap over the boot laces, around the tops of boots and upwards over the lower part of your legs.

Sensible, practical gaiters should have some stiffness, so they will sit upright around the lower part of your legs, and not slip down. Also, they should go on and off without needing to remove your boots. Gaiters also provide useful leg & sock protection whenever there are scratchy plants over the track or grasses full of seeds.

DO YOU RECOMMEND WALKING POLES FOR THIS TRIP?

Yes we do. More and more walkers are discovering the benefits of using one or two walking poles. Poles can provide valuable support when walking on uneven ground, or where there is an elevation. They can significantly reduce jarring on knees and ankles when walking downhill.

There are several different styles of handles, so you can find a comfortable grip. Look for a stick with a spring mechanism built into it, which will reduce jarring on wrists and elbows. Your new poles will no doubt travel in your suitcase so make sure it collapses small enough to fit. Everyone can benefit from the use of walking poles, for walking further, exercising/strengthening the upper body and relieving the pounding on the knees and other joints.

WILL I HAVE TO CARRY A HEAVY PACK?

All of our holidays are pack free experiences with all the logistics being organised for you. All your luggage will be moved for you so you won’t need to carry a heavy pack. All you will need to carry with you is your day pack.

WHAT IS AN IDEAL DAY PACK FOR WALKING?

The best piece of advice we can give is to make sure it’s big enough! As a minimum, you need to fit in your lunch, water bottle/s, wet weather gear, warm jumper, camera and other personal bits and pieces. A larger pack weighs marginally more and costs very little extra and you’re unlikely to regret it.

Well-padded shoulder straps are a must as your pack is inevitably going to feel heavier as the day goes on. Padded waist/hip belts are also very useful as they help take some of the load off your shoulders. A chest strap is available on most good packs these days and it will stop the pack from sliding around on your back whilst you bend over or walk on uneven terrain.

Several pockets or sections can also be handy, allowing you quick access to things like sunscreen, your water bottle or snacks.

Most packs are not waterproof, so it’s always a good idea to line the pack with a heavy-duty plastic bag. You can also buy a pack cover, which does an excellent job of keeping most of the rain out.

Some daypacks have a curved back and this allows more air to circulate, a fabulous idea for comfort. Whilst other hikers have wet backs, with one of these daypacks your back will remain dry.

DO YOU RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Please remember that it is far better to have travel insurance than not, particularly if you find yourself in the unfortunate position of having to cancel the walk. This way, you are covered.

While our Auswalk and/or service partners do all that we can to ensure that you and your possessions are safe and well-cared-for throughout your holiday, accidents can occasionally happen. It is your responsibility to ensure that any luggage being transported between accommodations along the trail is safely packed and does not contain any valuable and/or fragile items such as laptops, tablets, cameras, mobile phones or glass. Please protect yourself and your luggage and its contents with a suitable holiday insurance policy.

This insurance should also cover non-refundable costs should you have to cancel your trip due to unexpected personal circumstances.

1. The 3 Capes region on the Tasman Peninsula is more than just walking destination.

There’ plenty to do on the Tasman Peninsula and there are a couple of main attractions outside of hiking that are worth a visit.

The Port Arthur Historic site is world heritage listed and probably one of the best-preserved penal settlements worldwide. The gardens are as equally beautiful. As are the views over the ocean. You can easily spend a day wandering the buildings: there’s also guided tours on offer, including one centred on ghosts.

When on the Tasman Peninsula, one of the highlights is to get on the water. If you enter Port Arthur as part of your ticket price, there’s a 30 min cruise on the water. But if you want more than that, Pennicott express otherwise known as Tasman Island Cruises, a fabulous option to ‘leisurely’ cruise around the Tasman Sea.

There’s also the Lavender Farm, the dog line at Eaglehawk Neck and various small walks outside of the 3 Capes track like The Tessellated Pavement, Devils Kitchen, Tasman Arch and the blowhole to explore.

2. The official 3 Capes Track is actually only 2 Capes.

The third Cape, namely Cape Raoul is equally as spectacular and is quite separate from the main Three Capes Track. The walk is superb as are the views. Cape Raoul is also home to Shipsterns Bluff which has a massive reputation as a big surf destination. Plenty of surfers have met their match (no one has died according to locals) on what is one of the heaviest (and gnarliest) waves in the world. The other 2 Capes are Cape Huay and Cape Pillar; all of the capes are unique in their own way.

3. Make sure you prepare for hiking before you come

To start with the walks involve some up and down. Suitable training is absolutely necessary if you are not already walking fit. It is vital you practice walking up and down hills. For many walkers banging out 20kms is no issue, but once they get on an incline they unravel. Walking up is an entirely different kettle of fish. Walking up hill uses a different muscle range in your legs (and glutes if you still have them, they can get weak as we get older). That’s why our legs freak out when you climb stairs.

Make sure you break in your shoes if you have to purchase new ones. Blisters are the number one injury on walking tracks and new shoes are often the issue. Blisters don’t sound like much, but they can ruin a walk and there isn’t much you can do if the shoes don’t fit or haven’t been worn in.

4. What to bring when walking the 3 Capes track

What you pack is somewhat dependent on 2 things. What your intending to from a walking perspective and the time of year.

There are many options, including doing the Tasmania National Parks walk and staying in their huts. You need to book online on their website. If your choice is to stay in comfortable accommodation and dine out and walk, then a walking holiday might be a good idea.

Needless to say you will need a backpack regardless to carry your gear. If you’re slack packing as we like to call it, walking with a day pack and getting picked up each day and taken back to accommodation your pack will be much smaller and lighter. If you’re going on the hut walk please see this site for the additional gear you’ll need to bring.

What’s common ground though is the following: The need for good wet weather gear, especially a gortex jacket. Good walking shoes or boots are a must and at least 2 litres of water, 3 in summer as there is no water on the tracks.

I strongly recommend using hiking poles on the 3 Capes walks. Most of the walks on the 3 Capes have a lot of up and down and they will be a big help with stability and fatigue. Using poles has been said will ensure another 15 years of knee use before replacement! See this article for more information if you’re interested.

From a safety perspective, a mobile phone fully charged and a backup battery are vital. With Emergency + app loaded on your phone, you can be tracked anywhere by rescuers, actually within 8 metres. The app also allows you to communicate with emergency services and assist rescuers if heavens forbid you run into any problems.

You will need some means of navigation and detailed maps of the walks you intend of doing. And don’t rely on technology as there copious stories of people relying on tech and it failing and having no means of navigation. Don’t forget a fail includes dropping your phone, losing it or running out of battery. Its happens a lot.

Lastly, a warm jumper is essential as is a sunhat, sunscreen (at least 30+), a first aid kit and toilet paper.

Whether or not to carry some of the following will be dependent on the weather conditions. By the way check the weather the night before walking and in the morning. It can get really hot or really cold and windy, so both have to be considered in whether walking is feasible (fortunately this doesn’t happen often). In any case bringing waterproof overtrousers may save the day if it is wet as will be a warm hat. Sunglasses, camera, matches and a small torch are also worth packing. One last thing, I always carry a version of nappy rash cream, or a ( a rash powder), if its hot and you have solid legs it can make or break a walk. Also a must is Campeed for blisters. DO NOT leave home with out it.

There is more information on what to bring in the above FAQ section of this page.

5. You need to take your time

Take your time, be present, give your self the gift of doing very little. Take a book, an easel if you must or your drawing pad. Write something that is not work-related. Sit back and enjoy the view, if its not at our lodging then there’s magic places along the Tasman Peninsula all over the place to sit and enjoy the serenity. To factor in extra time to sit and chill on the track, so you will need to do your research on the walks to make this happen. Breathe in the freshest air in the world, air that has travelled up from Antarctica (by the way the Great Ocean walk also has the freshest air in the world as does Portland in Victoria). It reminds me a bit of the oldest town in Victoria, all 3 of them. What is guaranteed is that the air is fresh, but who’s to know what wins the freshest air competition. Does it even matter. Enjoy your exploration of Tasman Peninsula.

The climate on the Tasman Peninsula and the Three Capes is temperate.

The 3 Capes self-guided walking holidays is available year-round. However, October through to May are a more suitable and popular time to walk.  This is still a lovely time for walking, but it is Tasmania so your need to be prepared with at least a good quality wet weather jacket. Our local guides who live on the Island swear that June and July are also good times to walk also as the weather is often crisp and there is no one around. Please see our What To Bring section in FAQ’s for more information.

For more information please see the Bureau of Meteorology’s information concerning average temperatures and rainfall levels throughout the year.

cLIMATE GRAPHT 3 cAPES tASMAN pENINSULA

As with any journey, it is essential to be prepared for your walking holiday. While we will be transporting your luggage from accommodation to accommodation, you will still be carrying a lightweight day pack with you. Here is what we suggest that you carry with you each day:

  • Walking notes, a map, and a map case
  • Picnic lunch packed in an insulated container (when supplied)
  • Quality waterproof jacket with a hood
  • Warm jumper or jacket
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sunscreen (at least 15+)
  • 1 to 2 litres of water
  • First aid kit
  • Toilet paper
  • Mobile phone (please note that reception is not available in all walk areas)
  • Personal insect repellent, band-aids, and a small container of salt mixed with rice grains
  • Personal necessities (example: required medication)

Now that we have the essentials packed, it is time to think of those additional items that may be worth packing along with you. These may include and are not limited to:

  • Waterproof over-trousers
  • Camera (with an extra battery or sim cards)
  • Notebook and pen
  • Small torch
  • Walking stick
  • Thermos (for hot drinks)
  • Additional snacks

Cape Raoul was named by the French explorer, Bruni d’Entrecasteaux for the pilot of his expedition, Joseph Francois Raoul. This French team visited Tasmania’s east coast in 1792 while searching for the lost French expedition of La Pérouse (which had come to grief in the Solomon Islands, but this wasn’t discovered until decades later).

Dolomieu Point

Dolomieu Point was named by the d’Entrecasteaux Expedition in honour of the French mineralogist Déodat Gratet de Dolomieu (1750 – 1801). This is also who the Italian Dolomites are named for!

The dolomite columns at Cape Hauy, at the east end of the Tasman Peninsula, were likened to a rank of organ pipes and named after the respected French scientist and mineralogist, Hauy.

Port Arthur

Port Arthur, the former penal colony is now one of Tasmania’s iconic tourism destinations. It is located in between Cape Pillar and Cape Raoul near Carnarvon Bay.  It was named after George Arthur, the lieutenant governer of Van Diemens Land. The settlement first started in 1830 as a timber station and morphed into a penal colony.

Cape Pillar

Cape Pillar is one of the 3 stand out capes (there are a few other capes) on the Tasman Peninsula. The Cape Pillar cliffs rise to 300m high.  The later sections of the Cape Pillar Track follow the newly established Three Capes Track which can be done as a day walk but it is over 30km long.

1. 1. The 3 Capes region on the Tasman Peninsula is more than just walking destination.

2. 2. the official 3 capes track is actually only 2 capes., 3. 3. make sure you prepare for hiking before you come, 4. 4. what to bring when walking the 3 capes track, 5. 5. you need to take your time, hiking the himalayas 35 years on, what’s the right camino de santiago route for me, larapinta loonies – a poem by auswalker michael gibbs about walking the larapinta trail, nakasendo way trail – by sam ludbey, h is for hiking, kumano kodo pilgrimage trail – overview of the routes, the kumano kodo trail – an ancient japanese pilgrimage, the three capes track – an ultimate guide to hiking, why hiking is a no brainer for life planning, larapinta trail – what is the best time of year to walk.

three capes tours

ENQUIRE NOW

If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Three Capes Track in Tasmania

Welcome to our epic guide to hiking the Three Capes Track in Tasmania. In this article you will find everything you need to know to tackle this adventure, from how to get there to booking the track, what to pack and what is expected along the way.

The Three Capes Track is one of Australia’s most beautiful multi-day hiking trails, and having been lucky enough to recently complete it we can understand why it receives so much hype.

The 4-day, 48km one-way hike wanders along the south east tip of Tasmania in the Tasman National Park, following the highest sea cliffs in the southern hemisphere with mind-blowing views of Cape Pillar, Cape Hauy and Cape Raoul.

Listed as one of the Great Walks of Australia, the Three Capes Track first opened in 2015 and is managed by the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.

$25 million was spent on developing and upgrading the existing network of trails, and constructing three world-class huts for walkers to stay in.

The upgrades have now created an exclusive experience, with limited walker numbers allowed on Three Capes Track each day and allowing the trail to be more accessible to all levels of hiker, with a luxury twist.

Alesha Hiking The Three Capes Track

The Three Cape Track can be done self-guided or guided. We chose the self-guided option, at $595 per person.

It is expensive, but there’s a reason why.

When we say there’s a luxury twist, luxury is relative. But in the world of multi-day hikes, it doesn’t get much more comfortable than this.

Your $595 ticket a lot includes a lot of benefits, including access to the brand new huts with beds and memory foam mattresses in modern dormitories, meaning you don’t have to carry a tent or sleeping mats with you.

The kitchens have gas cookers, pots, pans, utensils and dish soap provided, and the dining rooms are heated.

All you need to bring on the Three Capes Track is your food, clothes, a sleeping bag and camera gear.

You’ll also find clean compost toilets, fresh drinking water tanks and even yoga mats to stretch on in the evenings, making the 48km hike a perfect introduction for people who have never done a multi-day trek before, or for those who don’t like the idea of carrying heavy backpacks.

It really is a completely different experience to hiking the Overland Track , which is another one of our favourite multi-day hikes in Australia.

As an added bonus you even get a scenic boat cruise on the way to the beginning of the Three Capes Track, transport back to the visitors centre and a two-year access pass to the UNESCO World Heritage Port Arthur Historic Site.

The comfort of the huts, the upgraded path and the limited number of people on the track are nothing compared to the sheer beauty of the Tasman National Park which you’ll be hiking through though.

We would go so far to say the Three Capes Track may just be the most stunning trek in the entire country.

Let’s dive into our comprehensive blog post all about this epic walking experience.

Surveyors Hut Three Capes

Table of Contents

How to Book the Three Capes Track

What is included in your pass, coach services, taxi or uber, boat to denman’s cove on day one, shuttle from fortescue bay campground on day four, can you do the three capes track for free, hiking gear, personal items, electronics, stuff you don’t need to pack, drinking water, day one – surveyors hut, day two – munro hut, day three – retakunna hut, common amenities at each hut, checking in, phone reception, day 1 – denman’s cove to surveyors, day 2 – surveyors hut to munro hut, day 3 – munro hut to retakunna hut via cape pillar, day 4 – retakunna to fortescue bay via cape hauy, conclusion to the three capes hike in tasmania, three capes tracks general information.

  • Location:  Tasman Peninsula, Tasmania
  • Length:  48 kilometres
  • Type:  One-way hiking track – South to North
  • Booking Required:  Yes
  • Permit Cost:  AUD$595 per person
  • Southern Terminus:  Port Arthur Historic Site
  • Northern Terminus: Fortescue Campground
  • Highest point:  480 m
  • Lowest point:  Sea level
  • Difficulty:  Easy – Moderate

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The only way to book the Three Capes Walk is on the National Parks website. Click here to visit the official page.

NOTE – Any other page you try to book through is most likely a private tour operator, selling the guided Three Capes Walk experience, which costs upwards of $3000.

When you are at the booking page you select the date you would like to start and the number of people in your party.

Before you book have ready your list of all party member names and dates of birth.

When paying only a valid credit card, Visa or Master Card, can be used.

The next screen is choosing your boat departure time to start the track, and your bus back to the Historic Site at the end, as well as adult, concession or child selections, followed by the payment screen.

After you have paid, you will receive an email confirming your booking along with a brochure to help you prepare for the Three Capes Track.

This is the only way to do the official Three Capes Track, and numbers are strictly limited to 36 people per day.

This hike does book out well in advance, especially during the Summer months, so make sure you get in quickly.

If you’re already in Tasmania and looking to do the Three Capes Track, check the site to see if any last-minute availability comes up due to cancellations.

READ MORE: Check out our guide to all the other best things to do in Tasmania !

Your Three Capes Track ticket includes the following:

  • A Pass for Port Arthur Historic Site : This is valid for 2 years and also includes a 45-minute group tour of the Port Arthur grounds and a short boat cruise. We recommend spending a day before or after your hike to explore the Port Arthur Historic Site – it’s well worth it.
  • Official Pass:  For walking on the trail for the four days
  • Park Entry: A Parks Pass for Tasman National Park is included for the duration of your time on the trail.
  • Reserved Accommodation:  Your bed for all 3 nights in each of the beautiful huts along the track.
  • Scenic Cruise:  This 2-hour cruise takes you from Port Arthur to the beginning of the trailhead, via secluded beaches and under the dolerite cliffs of the national park.
  • Bus Transport: Your transport from the end of the track at Fortescue Campground back to Port Arthur.
  • A Bag Tag: This attaches to your backpack to prove to the rangers you have purchased your ticket.
  • Information/Story Book: This great little book has lots of information about the Three Capes Track, the geology of the area and stories to go along with the artwork you can find. What it doesn’t have though is almost any information about the Aboriginal history of the area, which we were pretty disappointed in.

Starting Point Of Three Capes Track

How to Get to the Start of the Three Capes Track

The Tree Capes Track starts at the Port Arthur Historic Site in the town of Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula in Tasmania .

Here is how you can get there:

The closest airport is Hobart International Airport, which has regular flights to most capital cities in Australia, as well as to Auckland in New Zealand.

If money isn’t a concern, you can also look at taking a helicopter from Hobart to Port Arthur.

From Hobart, it is about 1.5 hours driving to Port Arthur, following the Convict Trail .

From Launceston it is about 3.5 hours to Port Arthur. All roads are sealed, so it’s suitable to take any car, including rentals.

There is a large car park at the Historic Site for walkers to leave their car for the duration of their trek. You just leave your registration number with the office before you leave.

If you don’t have your own car the easiest way to get to the start of the Three Capes Track is to book a bus from Hobart.

There are regular buses that run between Hobart and Port Arthur. For timetable and fare information please click on the links below:

  • Pennicott Wilderness Journeys – $35 per adult one way
  • Gray Line – $45 per adult one way

Both of these companies pick up and drop off at Hobart Airport, and must be arranged prior.

If you are already in the city, there is another (and cheaper) way to get out to the Tasman Peninsula without breaking the budget – public transport.

There is a public bus that runs from Hobart to the Tasman Peninsula. It doesn’t drop you directly off at Port Arthur Historical Site, but it does stop along Numbeena Road and it is a short walk from there.

It only runs from Hobart to Port Arthur in the afternoon though, so you may have to stay the night before you begin the Three Capes Track.

For timetable and fare information please click on the link below:

  • Tassielink – $24.20 per adult one way

You can always take a taxi from Hobart or the airport to Port Arthur if you prefer. Some people on our walk had done this and arranged for a driver to pick them up as the bus schedule didn’t work with them.

We can imagine this would be very expensive, but it may work out affordable and easier if you are in a group.

View To Tasman Island

Official Track Transport

Your transport to and from the trail are included in your Three Capes Track pass.

Access to Denman’s Cove, which is the start of the Three Capes Track, is undertaken on a 2-hour scenic boat cruise from the jetty at Port Arthur Historic Site.

The eco-cruise includes a guided trip around the bay, passing beneath soaring dolerite cliffs and into narrow beaches before dropping you off right on the sand at Denman’s Cove.

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys is the company running the cruise and they have a passenger checklist before you get on the boat.

You can choose from two different departure times, 11am or 1:30pm. You have to select your time when you initially book your Three Capes Track ticket.

If you need to change this you can phone 1300 TASPARKS  (1300 827 727).

Once you finish the Three Capes Track, there will be a bus waiting to take you back to the Port Arthur Historic Site, or onwards to Hobart if you have pre-organised this.

You can choose from two different departure times, 2:30pm or 4pm. Just like the boat, you select this when you book your ticket for the Three Capes Track.

Shuttle Boat

How Much Does the Three Cape Track Cost?

You have two options for hiking the Three Capes Track – self-guided or fully guided as part of a tour.

  • Self-Guided: This is the $595 per person ticket option if you book through the official site listed above.
  • Guided: Prices start at $3000 per person if you join one of the guided walking experiences run by private tour companies. This price is ‘all-inclusive’, meaning you don’t have to provide your own food. You stay at the privately-owned Cape Pillar Lodge and Crescent Lodge instead of the National Parks lodges.

If you’re doing the self-guided version of the Three Capes Track like we did, the $595 includes transport, accommodation, and cooking utensils.

As a rough ballpark figure, add about $150 per person for food if you are planning on eating high-quality dehydrated meals and lots of nice snacks to get you through.

You could easily bring this down to under $100 for the four days or even less if you’re thrifty.

If you have all your own hiking gear including sleeping bag, then you’re good to go. Otherwise, expect to add an additional $15~ per day for sleeping bag hire.

If you’re doing the guided tour of the Three Capes Track then everything is included, such as food, a chef, blankets, and even wine.

Technically, no. However there is an unofficial version known as the ‘Free Capes Track’ which can be done, although it isn’t the exact same.

From Fortescue Bay Campground you can hike out to Cape Hauy and Cape Pillar, sleeping in tents at campsites and returning back to Fortescue Bay.

You cannot use the huts, other than to go to the toilet, and you cannot hike towards Surveyors Hut, as this is a one-way trail.

It’s not the same experience as the Three Capes Track, but it is free and you get to see a lot of the same stunning views.

Us At The End Of The Track

What to Expect on the Three Capes Track

Now that you know the basic information for the Three Capes Track, let’s dive into what you can expect to find along the way.

Being in the far south east of Australia, the weather can be unpredictable at any time of year.

Even in the middle of summer you can experience sub-zero temperatures, so it’s important to be prepared for anything on the Three Capes Track.

Always pack warm clothes just in case, and most importantly bring high quality waterproof pants and a jacket with you.

Having a rain cover for your bag and for the contents inside is crucial. This will save you on those unexpected rainy days.

At every hut the park rangers will have a weather report printed off so you can prepare for the next day.

  • Spring: September – November
  • Summer: December – February
  • Autumn: March – May
  • Winter: June – August

Hiking In The Forest

If you have a moderate level of fitness, exercise regularly, and are capable of walking about 4 hours a day over four consecutive days, you will be fine.

The hike itself is not that hard, but the long distances and carrying a pack is what tires people out.

So be prepared and train if you have to before coming on the track.

The Three Capes Track is well maintained and groomed with a mix of gravel, compacted earth and boardwalk paths.

There are seats you can stop at along the path to take a rest and read though your information book.

If you have never done a multi-day trek before, or don’t have experience walking with a backpack, we recommend doing a small day walk or day hikes around your home to get used to the weight.

Big Mountain Views Tasman Peninsula

Equipment Checklist

When you book the hike Parks Tasmania will send you an equipment list. Definitely read it to see what you need to bring with you and what you can leave behind.

Do not overpack. This is a common mistake for so many people . You will regret it when you are hiking those long days with your heavy backpack.

Here is a list of everything we brought with us on the Three Capes Track.

  • Backpack with a good harness
  • Rain cover for your backpack
  • Waterproof liner
  • Day pack for the side trips
  • Hiking poles – not essential (we didn’t use ours) but handy to have
  • Waterproof pants
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof dry bags for your food, sleeping bag and clothes
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Inflatable pillow
  • 2-litre water bladder or water bottle
  • Plates or bowls
  • Hiking shoes – Make sure they are worn in and are comfortable
  • Socks – Bring liners to help with blisters
  • Flip flops or slip-on shoes for around camp
  • Socks for camp
  • Blister kit
  • Simple first aid kit (bandages, joint cream, pain killers)
  • Hiking pants that zip into shorts
  • Hiking shirts
  • Fleece for hiking during the day
  • Set of comfortable clothes for around camp
  • Quick dry towel
  • Sports bra day and crop top for evening
  • Down jacket or jumper for camp
  • Thermal top and pants (depending on what time of year you are going)
  • Ear plugs (you will need these in the dorms)
  • Soap for the shower (please make sure it is biodegradable)
  • Baby wipes to clean yourself on days one and three
  • Face moisturiser
  • Mobile phone
  • Charging cables for your phone and camera
  • Spare battery for your camera
  • Uncle Toby’s Oat Packets – Great and quick for breakfast
  • Vita-Wheat Crackers – Great and easy for lunch.
  • Block of cheese – Trust us, it will not go off. We took one on the Overland and it lasted a week.
  • Vegemite – Flavouring for the crackers
  • Protein Muesli Bars – Great snacks and essential to keep morale and protein levels up
  • Chocolate – Great afternoon and after dinner snacks
  • Tea and coffee
  • Dehydrated meal packs – double portion (2 nights) – lightweight and all you have to do is add boiling water. We recommend the company Strive Food who are local to Tasmania. Best vegetarian dehydrated food we have ever found.
  • Steak, sausages and Vegetables for the first night’s BBQ. Pack these into separate ziplock bags, and remember you have to take your rubbish out with you.
  • Wine – Some people brought wine in bags. After they finished the pack rolled away. Do not bring the wine bottle as you have to carry all your rubbish out with you.

The items below are items you will NOT need to bring with you on the Three Capes Track. These are provided for you at the huts.

  • Tent – you are allocated a dorm bed every night
  • Sleeping mat – they provide memory foam mattresses
  • Stove – they have gas cookers in the kitchens for you to use
  • Pots and pans
  • Knives and chopping board
  • Spatulas and ladles
  • Dishwashing detergent
  • Coffee plunger – one plunger is in every kitchen. If you have an Aeropress, we recommend bringing one as the coffee plunger may not be available.
  • Card games, board games and books – they are all provided at each kitchen hut for evening entertainment.
  • Hiking gaiters – the track is well maintained and you will not need these

Hiking Through Dense Forest

The coastal section of the Tasman National Park is one of the most rugged, beautiful parts of Australia you can ever imagine, boasting the highest sea cliffs in the southern hemisphere, eucalypt forests, dolerite columns and epic Southern Ocean views.

In terms of the terrain, we would both say that the Three Capes Track is the best, most well-graded multi-day track we’ve ever hiked here in Australia.

Beyond one litre for the first day’s walk, you do not need to bring any drinking water, sterilisation tablets or filters with you for the entire hike.

Brand new water tanks are installed at each hut, and these are regularly tested for quality by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Services.

Simply fill up your bottle or camelback with two litres before you hit the trail each day and you’ll be good to go.

There isn’t really anywhere safe to fill up with drinking water when you’re on the Three Capes Track, but you shouldn’t really need to.

Whatever you bring in, you carry out, including all your rubbish as there are no waste disposal points until you get back to Port Arthur.

This is so important to keep the Three Capes Track and the national park clean and the environment and animals protected.

Three Capes Huts

The Tasmanian government built three premium timber cabins* for hikers to stay in during the trek back in 2015, and they really are a work of art.

It almost feels like you’re cheating at the end of each day when you show up at the huts, play card and board games in the heated dining rooms, cook dinner on the large gas cooktops and stretch out on the decks on provided yoga mats.

Each of the 3 huts on the Three Capes Track are different in style and layout.

*It wasn’t without its controversy though. Have a read of this article on Wild for a different perspective.

Inside Three Capes Kitchens

This is one long building with the accommodation and kitchen common area joined.

The views from sitting in the kitchen are beautiful. They have outdoor BBQs here so bring those steaks on the first night of the Three Capes Track.

This hut is made up of two buildings; One for the kitchen and one for the accommodation.

It offers the best views of any of the huts from the balcony area and the helipad, overlooking the coastal cliffs and sea below. Perfect for sunrise!

This is also the only hut where you can have a hot shower, which is pretty decadent.

They have 2 outdoor bucket showers with a hot water tap at the entrance.

This hut is made up of 2 buildings. One for the two kitchens and outdoor kitchen and one building for the accommodation.

The drop toilets are located a distance away from the huts. They were the cleanest drop toilets we had ever seen.

Hut Kitchens On Three Capes Track

Here are the standard facilities and features you can expect in each hut along the Three Capes Track:

  • Indoor kitchens  with plenty of seating for meals. Munro one has 1 indoor kitchen, but a very large seating area.
  • Outdoor kitchens with a cooker, kettle and sink. If you don’t want to cook inside, you can cook in the outdoor kitchen area and enjoy the fresh air.
  • Gas stoves, kettles, and a wide assortment of fry pans and pots  for you to cook with. The only thing you need to bring with you is your cutlery, a plate, cup, your food and a tea towel to dry up. Dishwashing detergent is also provided.
  • Rain water is provided in every kitchen area. This is untreated, but regularly tested for quality. We never treated ours and we were fine. This water is for drinking, cooking and washing dishes.
  • Collection of boardgames and a library. We loved this and it is such a great way to break the ice with the other hikers. There are so many different boardgames and great educational and informational books about the local area.
  • Charging stations with USB power points so you can charge your cameras and phone in the evenings. These are limited and always get taken up quickly, so bring a power bank as well.
  • Large outdoor decking  with lounge chairs. Great to relax in the afternoons.
  • Yoga mats and rollers so you can stretch out after a big day hiking.
  • 4- or 8-person dormitories. Each room comes with a bench, hooks and a window shelf. You are assigned a room number on your first night, and it is the same throughout the entire hike.
  • Memory foam mattresses to let you have an amazing sleep. We didn’t expect it to be so comfortable, but they were really incredible. BYO inflatable pillow and sleeping bag.
  • Bathrooms – There are 4 drop toilets at each hut. They all had toilet paper, hand wash, sanitiser, and running rain water for the sinks. They were the cleanest drop toilets we saw in all of Tasmania.

Dorm Rooms On Three Capes

Once you arrive at Port Arthur Historic Site on the day you start the Three Capes Track, you head into the visitors centre, past the ticket desks then walk downstairs, where you’ll find the Three Capes Office.

Head in, have your name marked off and the friendly ranger will give you your bag tag, your pass and give you a quick safety briefing.

If you have arrived early you can drop your bag off in the adjacent locker room (the ranger will give you a coin so you don’t have to pay for the lockers), then head upstairs to collect your entrance ticket for the Historic Site by showing your hiking pass.

Go for a walk around the Port Arthur Historic Site, or you can choose to simply relax in the cafe before departure.

15 minutes before your boat leaves grab your stuff and walk down to the jetty, meet the boat driver and jump onboard.

Walking To Cape Hauy

If you’re with Telstra or Optus, you will get intermittent phone service throughout the Three Capes Track, mainly at the top of the mountains and out at the capes.

It is very weak though and shouldn’t be relied on.

If you’re like us you’ve probably read ‘Storyseats’ and thought, “ Err, what the hell are these? ” Well don’t worry, you’ll find out all about them.

When you check in you receive a story book with information about the history, the landscape, the birdlife, the fungi, the marine life and more of the area.

The book also talks about the art you can find along the track.

Local artists were commissioned at the construction of the trail to craft a number of seats that relate to a different story where you can sit down and read about them in the book.

Don’t miss them and do not skip reading the stories. They are great.

Story Seats Three Capes Track

Hiking the Three Capes Track Itinerary

You start the Three Capes Track on the day you booked, and each night you move onto a different hut.

Unlike the Overland Track where you can stay at each campsite for as long as you want, on the Three Capes Track you must keep moving each day.

That makes the whole hike feel more intimate, as you are with the same small group the entire time.

It also has some other added benefits. During the day you can walk at your own pace and not stress about missing out on a bed, as one is reserved for you.

Without further ado, let’s dive into the Three Capes Track itinerary in Tasmania. We’ll also touch on the Three Capes Track experience, and what it’s like along the hike.

READ MORE: While you’re at it, don’t miss these other epic places to visit in Tasmania !

  • Distance:  4km
  • Time: 1.5 hours
  • Highlights: Scenic boat cruise, Surveyors Cove
  • Campsite:  Surveyors Hut

Once you have checked in and walked down to the jetty you jump onto your boat and head off on the 2-hour scenic cruise that takes you out to Denman’s Cove.

Along the way your knowledgable (and in our case, hilarious) captain will cruise along the edge of the Tasman National Park, pointing out geological highlights and gorgeous viewpoints.

When you arrive at Denman’s Cove the captain will drive the boat directly onto the beach, put down a ramp and everybody unloads onto the sand.

It’s a short walk to the trailhead, where you can grab a photo at the official starting point before walking towards Surveyors Hut.

Paved Steps

The trail is wonderfully maintained, and even in the rain we experienced there was no mud to navigate.

Wandering through the forest you pass over streams and beneath towering trees, before popping out at Surveyors Cove at about the halfway point.

It’s a great spot to have lunch or a snack before continuing on the rest of the way to the hut.

Allow about a 1.5 hours to get to Surveyors Hut if you want to take your time, although for us we arrived in just under an hour.

We were amazed to see the size and design of the hut! Architecturally designed with huge timber beams, a wide deck and massive windows to enjoy the views, you can quickly see why it cost $25 million to build the whole track.

When you arrive you’ll meet the national park ranger who will check your name off and assign you to a room. This is the same room number you’ll keep throughout the hike.

Drop your gear off, get changed if you need to, then grab a spot in the dining room or out on the deck to get to know your fellow hikers.

Surveyors Hut is a very social place, partly due to the outdoor barbecues, partly due to the excitement everyone is feeling, and partly because a lot of people bring wine, and big meals to enjoy because of the short hike.

We cooked up some sausages and ended up playing card games with a couple of young hikers until about 9pm. A perfect way to end day one of the Three Capes Track.

View From Surveyors Hut

  • Distance:  11km
  • Time: 3-4 hours
  • Highlights:  Storyseats, coastal views
  • Campsite:  Munro Hut

It’s a short walk to Munro Hut today so you don’t have to leave too early if you don’t want to.

Heading out from Surveyors you follow the path towards the coast, where you’re rewarded with spectacular ocean views.

Climbing a moderate hill you’ll find a few spots to stop and have a break, as well as a couple of Storyseats.

Before too long you hit a crossroad – left is the direct path to Fortescue Bay Campground, straight ahead is Retakunna Hut and to the right is Munro Hut and Cape Pillar.

It’s less than one hour from here to Munro.

Alesha Admiring Views

It’s an easy, lush walk through the forest to Munro Hut, and if you left Surveyors around 8am, you will probably have arrived here at lunchtime. Check your name off on arrival and drop your gear off in your dorm.

The first thing you’ll notice when you get here is the sensational platform with views over the enormous coastal cliffs. It’s a stunning spot on the Three Capes Track.

Prepare your lunch and come out here to enjoy it if the weather is nice. The helipad just past the toilet block is another awesome spot to relax.

Munro Hut is huge on the inside, with lots of room to spread out and play games, read a book or relax.

Behind the sleeping cabins you’ll find the outdoor hot shower. It’s quite an experience, where you fill up a bucket with hot water, take it to the showers, pour the water into a bag with a shower head then lift it up with a rope.

It sounds complicated, but it’ll all make sense when you’re there (or you can watch our video on the Three Capes Track to see how it works).

We personally arrived at Munro Hut at around 11am on a lovely sunny day, and rather than spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing, we decided to hike all the way out to Cape Pillar, which is what is on the itinerary for tomorrow.

Jarryd even decided to stay out there for sunset and walk back to Munro in the dark.

Not many people do this, so it’s a great chance to see Cape Pillar and the Blade twice if you’re feeling energetic.

Munro Hut

  • Distance:  19km
  • Time: 6-8 hours
  • Highlights:  Cape Pillar Track and the Blade
  • Campsite:  Retakunna Hut

Wake up early to watch sunrise from the viewing platform, enjoy breakfast then pack your room up to get ready for the big hike out to Cape Pillar.

Leave your large hiking pack in the storage locker just past the sleeping cabins and take a day pack with food, water and cameras for the Cape Pillar track.

The walk is fairly easy with only minor elevation gains, but almost immediately you’ll be presented with incredible views all the way out to Cape Pillar.

Tasman Peninsula Sunrise

The trail is mostly boardwalk or gravel, and one interesting thing is that the 2.6km long boardwalk through coastal heath is actually one of the art installations on the Three Capes Track!

It is designed to look like the Dream Serpent when seen from the air, the mythical snake that carved the rivers, streams and creeks across Australia according to Aboriginal Dreamtime stories.

If you’re moving quickly it’ll take about 2-3 hours to get to the legendary Blade, a steep and narrow dolerite ridge that climbs up to offer tremendous views across to Tasman Island.

It can be pretty nerve-racking for people who are scared of heights, as there are no barriers between you and the edge of a 200m cliff. Just take your time and you’ll be fine.

Once you’ve snapped your shots looking from the Blade down to Tasman Island head back down and continue the last little section to Cape Pillar, which is the end of the track.

From the top of Cape Pillar you can see all the way out to Cape Raoul and Cape Hauy, which is where the name ‘Three Capes’ comes from. Even though you only technically visit two, you can see three.

Having trekked all over the world, in some of the most epic mountainous regions on the planet, we never thought Australia would have views as incredible as this.

How wrong we were…

Cape Pillar And Tasman Island

Make yourself lunch at any one of the coastal rocks and enjoy it with the views of Cape Pillar (just don’t get too close to the edge), then walk back to Munro Hut in the afternoon.

Grab your big backpack on the way through, repack out on the deck if you need, then it’s only an hour or so to Retakunna Hut.

Retakunna is the last hut you stay in on the Three Capes Track, and it’s every bit as lovely as the last two.

The dorm rooms are separate to the kitchen and dining area, with lovely views up towards Mt Fortescue.

There’s lots of room to spread out, and we spent the afternoon stretching on the yoga mats and chatting with our fellow hikers.

Retakunna Hut

  • Distance:  14km
  • Time: 4-6 hours
  • Highlights:  Cape Hauy, the temperate rainforest on Mt Fortescue
  • Finish: Fortescue Bay Campground then Port Arthur Historic Site

By now you would have heard the ranger warning you about the climb up Mount Fortescue that awaits you first thing in the morning.

Honestly, it’s not that bad. So don’t stress too much about it.

We still recommend having an early start today though so you have plenty of time to hike out to Cape Hauy, which is the final side trip of the Three Capes Track.

The climb up Mount Fortescue is one of the highlights of the entire trip, as it is the only coastal temperate rainforest in all of Tasmania, making it closer in ecology to the alpine regions of Cradle Mountain rather than the Tasman Peninsula.

During the ascent you’ll find sprawling ferns, colourful fungi and huge beds of moss covering the earth like carpet.

The small patch of rainforest is glorious, and we definitely recommend taking your time through here.

Mount Fortescue Tasman National Park

Once you hit the summit of Mount Fortescue it’s all downhill from here, with the track hugging the edge of the cliffs offering sensational views all the way back to Cape Pillar.

As you hit the crossroad between Cape Hauy and Fortescue Bay you’ll find a small platform where you can leave your heavy daypack for the short side trip to the cape.

Just make sure you cover your bag in your rain cover so the currawongs don’t get into it!

It’s less than an hour to Cape Hauy, and being a public trail from Fortescue Bay means there are a lot of people on the track. After 3 days of solitude, it’s quite a change to see so many hikers.

The walk is fairly easy, but just like everywhere else on the Three Capes walk the views are seriously impressive.

Once you get to the end of the cape make sure you pop your head over the railing to catch a glimpse of the Totem Pole – a sheer dolerite column rising straight out of the sea that is one of the most challenging and famous rock climbing routes in the world.

Boat At Bottom Of Totem Pole

Walking back from Cape Hauy grab your backpack at the crossroad then it’s only a short downhill trek to get to the finish point at Fortescue Bay.

On a sunny, calm day the water in the bay is glistening and inviting. If you have time before your shuttle leaves make sure you go for a swim.

Once you get to the campground follow the signs to the ranger office where you meet the shuttle bus back to Port Arthur, and if you want you can buy a token to use the nearby hot showers for $2.

Congratulations – you have now completed the Three Capes Track

We hope this article helped you better prepare your 4 days Three Cape Track itinerary.

It was such an amazing hike with the best coastal scenery we’ve seen in all of Australia.

The Three Capes Track is a perfect introduction if to have never done a multi-day hike before as you aren’t required to carry a full, heavy backpack that you find on other adventures

It’s also a brilliant hike for a group of friends or a family, so rope your buddies into doing the Three Capes Track with you!

Coastline Of Tasman Peninsula

If you found our article useful make sure you leave a comment below, and share it with your friends or on social media.

Happy hiking!

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About the Author - Alesha and Jarryd

Hey! We are Alesha and Jarryd, the award-winning writers and professional photographers behind this blog. We have been travelling the world together since 2008, with a passion for adventure travel and sustainable tourism. Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. As one of the world's leading travel journalists, our content and adventures have been featured by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, CNN, BBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, Channel 7, Channel 10, ABC, The Guardian, and plenty other publications. Follow our journey in real time on Facebook , YouTube and Instagram .

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18 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Three Capes Track in Tasmania”

Appreciate!

This article was so informative for me. This is going to be my first time doing something like this and I kind a know what to expect after reading your article. Some ideas on what to take, food and clothes would also help a first timer.

So glad we could help. It is an amazing hike. Have a great time. Happy hiking

Thank you Alesha and Jarryd for your generous and super helpful article. I have never hiked before but am madly practising before my trip there at the end of April. Any tips for a practice walking plan and do you think walking poles are a good idea for an older less experienced walker than yourselves 🙂

Thanks so much for this info, it’s super! My friend & I are doing the trek in a few weeks’ time (March 2023) & your info really helps. I’ve done lots of treks in Nepal (7) but there I hired a porter to carry my rucksack & stayed at teahouses so didn’t have to plan meals – so this is a different ballgame. Thanks again.

Thanks guys, this is a great breakdown and insiders review. I have been a bit worried about lunches for this trip. Rolls should last the 4days? Thought to just slap on some cheese. Fine with breakfast and dinners. Again, great review! Cheers Kay

Happy we could help. It is an amazing hike. You will have a blast. Rolls will be great or cracker and cheese. Thats would we did and it worked out fine. Have a wonderful hike and enjoy. 🙂

Thanks for the write up. I’m trying to book for next year and take my 13 year old with me.. I don’t mind carrying a tent and all the other equipment but this sounds great. I’ve hiked in NZ using the huts and it’s makes a big difference.. Now to pack the big camera or rely on my phone camera!

Thank you so much for putting together such a detailed blog of your experience. You have broken it down in such a practical way that reduces the anxiety of an unknown experience. I look forward to enjoying the experience. @Victoria I too am booked for September 12. LoL! Happy Birthday in advance!

This is an awesome article – thank you!

I have booked for September 12 (my birthday, yay!) and have a couple of questions. First up – I have a 0 degree sleeping bag with +8 liner and sleep in thermals when hiking. However, Tasmania is a completely different ballgame, so I am wondering if my sleeping gear is ok for the huts? This is the combo I used for Larapinta late July/Aug last year (along with my 3season tent), and was warm enough except where overnight temperatures reached as low as -3, then I had to sleep with my puffer jacket and beanie on!!

Also, I would be keen to head to Cape Pillar in the afternoon to watch the sunset and walk back to Munro with my headlamp. Was the track easy enough to navigate in the dark?

Thanks so much for all this info. I was wondering if there was a recommended time of year to hike….not too cold not too hot??? Tassie is such a different climate to Qld!!

We did the Three Capes Track at the end of March and the weather was lovely. It can change quickly so do bring a down jacket and a rain jacket. Have a great hike. 🙂

Hi Delphine, How exciting. It is such a brilliant hike. There is an equipment checklist section in the article where we give information on what to take on the hike (food, clothes and sleeping equipment). Hope that helps. Have a great hike. 🙂

Thank you for the comprehensive overview and tips, especially for the gear.

Hi Jenni, you are welcome. We are happy to help. Have a great time on your hike. 🙂

Wow. I’ve booked the hike and this is SUCH a good overview. I love how you broke it all down, in such a comprehensive manner, from the transport, the directions to the 3 Capes Office at Port Arthur etc, as well as the daily rundown inc. highlights to look out for. Will defo be checking it as I go. Little nervous so this really helped me feel more prepared x you’re my gurus!

Hi guys, that was very informative and helpful. I booked my Three Capes track . Luckily got a spot this Christmas weekend.

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Three Capes Track logo

Parks & Wildlife Service - Three Capes Track Notice

Three capes track.

Before booking we recommend you check Tasmanian travel advice regarding travel requirements at www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au – Coming to Tasmania.

Please remember prior to walking the track, ensure that you undertake an assessment of personal health and contact the booking office if you feel unwell to reschedule or cancel your walk.

We look forward to hearing from you by email [email protected] .

Three capes Track photograph

Breathtakingly beautiful

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights total distance: 48 km grade: easy to moderate.

Three Capes Track Map

Walk side by side and let nature’s drama unfold

Experience the Three Capes Track

Ignite your senses

Three capes Track photograph

  • 1300 544 882
  • walk@inspirationoutdoors.com.au
  • Three Capes Track, Wineglass Bay & Maria Island

$3,099 Twin Share

Download Itinerary PDF

Download FAQ PDF

The East Coast of Tasmania is a mecca for walking. We kickstart in the charming town of Launceston with a heart-warming welcome dinner, before starting fresh on our journey to the pristine shores of Wineglass Bay; where azure waters meet white sands. Next, we take the ferry to Maria Island, which beckons, with a vibrant history and the mesmerising 'Painted Cliffs'. The latter half of the tour is no less dramatic as we dive into the wonders of the Tasman National Park on the acclaimed Three Capes Track. A truely unique display of Tasmania's natural beauty with sprawling heathlands, dramatic dolerite cliffs, and the iconic pathways of Cape Hauy, crowned by awe-inspiring formations like The Candlestick and the Totem Pole.

Highlights of this walk

  • Observe every shade of blue at Wineglass Bay
  • Discover Maria Island’s rich history and diverse wildlife (including echidnas and wombats)
  • Peek over 300m towering cliffs on the Three Capes Track
  • Feel the achievement walking the vertical trails of Cape Hauy
  • Dive into an enthralling experience that showcases Tasmania’s captivating landscapes and tales

Accommodation Icon

Day 1 - Arrival day with welcome dinner

Arrive at any time during the day and make your way to your first nights stay in Launceston.

We will see you in the lobby of the hotel at 6pm for a tour briefing followed by a 7pm welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Accommodation: Best Western Plus, Launceston (or similar)

Meals: Dinner

Day 1 - Arrival day with welcome dinner

Day 2 - Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park

The view over Coles Bay toward the Hazard Range and the green-clothed peaks of the Freycinet Peninsula draws us in to this iconic national park.

Enjoy a gorgeous 11.5km circuit walk, which starts with a moderate climb on a well-formed path up and over a small saddle, then descends to the white sandy beach of Wineglass Bay. We follow the path across the isthmus to the more exposed Hazards Beach on the western side of the isthmus, then the track continues through coastal woodland and heathland around Mt Mayson (this part can seem to take longer than it should) before arriving back at the carpark.

After our walk, and perhaps a cool but refreshing swim, we head to Swansea, our home for the evening.

Accommodation: Swansea Motor Inn (or similar)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 - Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park

Day 3 - Maria Island

A quick ferry ride and we alight at the beautiful Maria Island. An island steeped in interesting Tasmanian Aboriginal and post-Settlement history, there is lots to explore for the day. Visit the Fossil Cliffs, an old limestone quarry with fossils of ancient sea creatures embedded within the rock; and the Painted Cliffs, formed from Triassic sandstone that show-cases spectacular colouration from seeping groundwater and fantastic shapes sculpted by often fierce salt-laden winds.

Another landmark is Darlington township, with it's fascinating re-inventions, including starting life as a penal colony before a new owner tried their hand at silk and cement production, finally being reserved as a wildlife sanctuary, which continues today.

Throughout the day, observe the numerous forester kangaroos, Cape Barren geese and the adorable waddling wombats from Flinders Island, whilst walking through various plant communities including dry sclerophyll Eucalypt woodlands, and cleared grasslands.

After our ferry trip back to the mainland we'll head to Orford and our accommodation for the night.

Accommodation: Eastcoaster Tasmania (or similar)

Day 3 - Maria Island

Day 4 - East Coast to Tasman Peninsula

Today we will be travelling down the East Coast and you'll join a three hour wilderness cruises along the spectacular coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck.

In the afternoon there is an option to visit Port Arthur or alternatively you can mix it up and do several short- to medium-length walks, taking in the unique and interesting shapes that time, wind and water have made in the Triassic sandstone, and visit one of a number of local attractions.

Accommodation: Fox & Hounds Historic Hotel (or similar)

Day 4 - East Coast to Tasman Peninsula

Day 5 - Cape Raoul, Tasman Peninsula

Today we will explore the one of the capes on the famous Three Cape Track, after a short drive from Port Arthur.

Our walk today starts off inland where we get to enjoy some beautiful heath country. As we come closer to the coastline the bush opens up and we get some of our first glimpses of the absolutely spectacular dolerite cliffs of the Tasman National Park. If we're lucky we may encounter some of those intense winds the capes are famous for.

Eventually the trail starts heading east along the cliff tops and we descend onto the Cape Raoul plateau. Here we are rewarded with coastal banksia scrub and the odd glimpses of the northern coastline and the impressive 300m high cliffs of Cape Pillar in the distance. Once we've had plenty of time taking in all the beautiful scenery at the end of Cape Raoul we make our way back the same way to the bus.

From the end of the walk it is a short drive back to Port Arthur for our final night together.

Day 5 - Cape Raoul, Tasman Peninsula

Day 6 - Cape Hauy, Tasman Peninsula

Our last walk for the tour, part of the Three Capes Track, is challenging and spectacular. As we've come to expect from Tasmania, there are plenty of ups and downs, and therefore absolutely incredible views to marvel at. As we walk along Cape Hauy, the promontory narrows and the views get better and better. Massive dolerite cliffs descend vertically into the ocean on either side, making this an exciting walk to finish on.

In the early afternoon it's a ~1.5hr drive back to Hobart, arriving late afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

Accommodation

  • Other (3 nights), Hotel (2 nights)

Dates & Availability

$3,099 AUD per person twin share Want your own room? From an extra $590 (subject to availability).

7 spots available

8 spots available

6 spots available

14 spots available

Important Notes

  • Single Supplement: A single supplement is bookable, subject to availability at the time of booking. Single supplement provides you with your own room but with shared bathroom facilities.
  • Start & End Times:  Arriving in Launceston, please make your way to the hotel by cab or shuttle bus. We will pick you up from the front of the hotel in the morning the day after the Welcome Meeting and Dinner. On drop-off in Hobart, we can provide transport at the airport for an evening flight, or at your accommodation if in Central Hobart. Those staying outside of Hobart CBD will need to arrange transfers – please contact our friendly customer service team for assistance should you need it.
  • 2024 Itinerary changes: If you are travelling with us in 2024 please note that there are a few changes to the current itinerary. The new itinerary will be 6 Days/5 nights and there will be an included Pennicott Wilderness Cruise.
  • In the event of unforeseeable circumstances that require a modification to the itinerary or accommodation, we will make every effort to provide a suitable alternative.

Download FAQs PDF

Tasmania Walks FAQs

How should i prepare for the walks in tasmania.

Most of the walks on this tour are moderate to challenging – and are more challenging without adequate preparation. Tasmania seems to be made of hills, and we’re set to climb a lot of them, which can be hard on the knees, thighs and glutes. However, the walks are achievable to those of good fitness. Training prior to the tour will ensure you enjoy it and reduce your chance of injury.

The best way to prepare physically for the trip is to walk up and down hills or stairs, over a variety of surfaces. Try to walk frequently. By the start of our tour you should be able to comfortably walk 15 km and be confident up and down hills.

One great tip to prepare for the rocky surfaces is to step over a series of milk crates. The key with rocky terrain is to lift up your leg nice and high.

Posted in: Tasmania Walks FAQs

How hard are the walks in Tasmania?

By our estimation, most of our guests will find the tour roughly;

30% easy, 55% moderate and about 15% challenging.

For those who choose to do the summit of Mt Rufus (optional walk on the Central Highlands Tour ), the percentage of challenge, would be slightly higher.

About Walking Tours In General

How hard are the walks.

The difficulty of the walks ranges from tour to tour, from easy to challenging. We design all of our walking tours to be achievable for those with a moderate level of fitness. We do recommend doing some training before most tours, because physical activity is always more enjoyable if you are physically prepared. We will send you information about how to train when you book.

When on tour we find that a positive mental attitude is most important and that if you focus on the scenery, the company and the moment, and not on the kilometres, then you find yourself reaching your destination with little problem. You can always have a day or sometimes an afternoon off to relax if you feel like it. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete a walk, give us a call or send us an email and we can talk you through it.

Posted in: About Walking Tours In General

Do I have to twin-share accommodation? Can I have my own room?

Our tour prices are based on rooms being twin share (two single beds in one room) or double (one double/queen bed in a room, shared by a couple). If you are travelling alone, we will place you in a room with someone of the same gender. If you have opted for a single supplement, this means you will have your own room but we won’t always be able to guarantee your own bathroom and king/queen bed due to the types of accommodation we use for group bookings. Often we stay at 2 or 3 bedroom chalets so that we can cook and have a common area for the group to relax and mingle at the end of your days walk. If having your own bathroom is important, give us a ring and we will see if it is possible.

Will I hold up the group if I’m a slow walker?

We find a lot of people who haven’t been on a walking tour before worry about this, but it’s rarely an issue. We keep a comfortable steady pace with plenty of opportunities to rest and take in the scenery along the way. Usually the group will spread out over a couple of hundred metres as we walk.

Normal walking pace on a formed surface like a road or footpath is around 4.5 – 6 km per hour and we tend to average just over 3 km per hour on bush tracks. It’s not a stroll but it’s not a brisk walk either. If you feel you may be slower than this, try some longer training walks to increase your walking fitness.

What is the average age of Inspiration Outdoors’ guests?

About 80% of our walkers are aged between 45 – 75, but we welcome all adults on our tours. We get a roughly 60/40 female to male split.

Posted in: About Walking Tours In General , Day Walk FAQs

What’s the food like? Can you cater for my dietary needs?

We serve simple, nutritious and delicious food on tour prepared by our guides, using fresh and local ingredients as much as possible. Sometimes we also eat out at restaurants. Breakfast, morning tea, lunch, fresh fruit, pre-dinner nibbles and a two course evening meal are all included. We are happy to adapt our menu to suit many dietary needs including gluten free, vegetarian and vegan diets – please ask when you book.

Are your walking tours just for “bushwalkers”?

Our walks are for anyone who enjoys walking and nature – bushwalkers or not. Our walks are conducted in safe, supportive and fun environments and you don’t need specialised equipment or experience to undertake them. We give you information about what you will need to bring and how you should prepare for each tour and we’re always here to answer any questions or concerns.

Do I have to walk every day on tour?

Of course not – it’s your holiday and you should do what you feel! Relax at the accommodation, come for a drive, get dropped off in town or go for a stroll of your own. On some days there is also the opportunity to walk for part of the day. This last option depends on whether there is vehicle access to the track.

What do I have to carry when I walk?

Very little. A water bladder or bottles, lunch/snacks/fruit for the day. a rain jacket, some personal first aid supplies and, on some days, lunch. You will probably want a camera as well. We return to accommodation each evening so there is no need to carry a large backpack.

Not sure if this is the right tour for you?

At Inspiration Outdoors, we understand that choosing the right tour can be a difficult decision. That’s why we’re here to help make the process as smooth as possible. If you still have questions, give us a call or drop us a line. Whether it’s a question about the tour itinerary or your fitness level, our customer care team is ready to answer it. We have product specialists for every tour who are eager to share their knowledge and help you plan your next adventure.

What our customers say

From $3,099.00 aud per person (single supplement $590.00).

$350 deposit to hold your place

Money-Back Guarantee

Our booking process, what happens after i book.

After you have filled in a registration form, we will send you all extra information you may need, including a list of what to bring and how best to prepare for the tour.

Payment in full is required at least six weeks prior to the tour (bookings can still be made within six weeks of tour start date if there are places available). We will email or call you to remind you when this is due.

Finally, we will contact you prior to your tour to confirm pick-up times and locations. If you have any questions or concerns at all before or after you have booked, please don't hesitate to get in touch so we can go through them with you.

What are my payment options?

Payment can be made by:

  • Direct deposit
  • Credit card

Can I cancel my booking?

If you need to cancel your tour;

  • 85 days or more, you will be refunded all monies paid, less a $50 administration fee.
  • 42 to 84 days prior to departure, you will lose your deposit
  • 28 to 41 days: 25% of full tour cost
  • 14 to 27 days: 50% of full tour cost
  • less than 14 days: 100% of full tour cost, no refund

If you have any concerns about cancelling, please take out travel insurance covering this contingency. This policy will be adhered to despite the most compelling and compassionate circumstances.

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Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

Duration 3 days

Price from USD $730 ? Currency Conversion Converted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip Style Sightseeing

Time of year All Year

Home / Moscow Tours / Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

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This short Moscow tour will give you a true taste of the history, culture and incomparable urban vibe that define one of the world’s largest metropolises. In just three days, this Moscow itinerary takes in all the most iconic sights of this attraction-packed destination. After two and half days getting acquainted with the city, we’ve set time aside for you to explore Moscow your way and discover your own favourite hang-outs in a city overflowing with hidden treasures

3-Day Moscow Tour Highlights:

  • Panoramic Tour of Moscow: See Moscow beyond the postcard images on a private excursion by car through the city streets including a drive along the banks of the Moskva River. Visit the famous Bolshoi Theatre, pass by Gorky Park and the Novodevichy Convent, and admire the city from on high at the Sparrow Hill observation platform.
  • Moscow Historical City Centre Guided Walking Tour : Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of one of the world’s biggest metropolises and discover local haunts on foot, including the Red Square, the Kremlin and the multi-coloured domes of St Basil’s Cathedral.
  • Armory Chamber tour: Explore the endless treasures of this unique museum, displaying the wealth accumulated by Russian rulers from the 12th century until the October Revolution of 1917. Walking through the exhibition halls is a journey through the centuries.
  • Moscow Metro Tour : Go deep underground on a subway tour of the famous Moscow metro. The world’s deepest metro system is renowned for its palatial, art-adorned stations, complete with marble columns and chandeliers.

On your first day, you’ll be treated to a panoramic, drive-by tour of Moscow to get a feel for the immense scale of one of the world’s most rapidly developing urban centres. The city’s history unfolds in real-time as you pass lavish imperial mansions, solemn Soviet structures and luxurious modern shopping centres.

Day two kicks off exploring Moscow’s historic centre on foot, followed by a tour of the Kremlin, the seat of Russian power and political intrigue for centuries. Stand in the Red Square, surrounded by the stunning architecture as you hear stories of the people and events behind many of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks.

On your final day, we’ll head beneath the city for a tour of the Moscow Metro and its famously ornate underground stations. Art lovers should hit up one of Moscow’s many world-class galleries such as the Tretyakov State Gallery, the Pushkin Museum or Garage, Moscow’s cutting-edge contemporary art museum. History fans can follow a Soviet trail through the city including Stalin’s Bunker, while those seeking a more indulgent experience can browse trendy neighbourhoods like Kitay Gorod or shop for everything from fashion to kitsch souvenirs at the enchanting Izmaylovo Flea Market. Foodies can head to one of the countless speciality stores sampling vodka, caviar and chocolate.

If you only have a few days to spend in Moscow, this tour will ensure you make the most of your time in the city. Let the experts navigate you through this complex and occasionally overwhelming capital, giving you plenty of time to soak up the city’s most unmissable attractions.

Accomodation

Not Included

Sightseeing

Action rating ?

Type of tour

3 days / 2 nights

Private - Any Date

Russia Moscow Tour

Day 1 Panoramic city tour

Welcome to the glorious capital of Russia, Moscow! You’ll be met by your driver at the airport and taken to your centrally located hotel.

After check-in and rest, meet your private guide at the hotel lobby for a comprehensive tour of Moscow by car. Visit the starkly contrasting Theatre Square to see the stunning Bolshoi Theatre, pass Tverskaya Street, the city’s main boulevard and home to the landmark Yeleseyevskiy Grocery Store.

You’ll enjoy a panoramic drive along the Moskva River, where a huge, controversial state of Peter the Great was erected. Pass by the legendary Gorky Park and the White House before a stop at the architecturally stunning Novodevichy Convent, and the observation platform at Sparrow Hills, for a bird’s eye view over this staggering megalopolis.

Day 2 Red Square and Kremlin

After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you on a walking tour of the historical city centre. Stroll through the Red Square, the hub of cultural life in Moscow, with its elaborate ‘stone flower’ fountain and fantasy-like St Basil’s Cathedral – a postcard-perfect symbol of the nation. Admire the grandiose façade of GUM, the city’s most luxurious shopping centre, and visit Alexander’s Garden, with its eternal flame and the chance to watch a changing of the guards.

Break for lunch before continuing on a tour of the Kremlin and Armoury Chamber, famous of its collection of tsarist fashion, with regalia such as jewel-encrusted crowns, orbs and sceptres as well as arms and armour, exotic gifts from the leaders of faraway lands, and an illustrious case of Imperial Faberge eggs.

As an option* spend an evening on a sumptuous dinner cruise, taking in the stunning sights and city lights of this mesmerising metropolis by night.

Day 3 Metro and Arbat Street

Start a day with a tour of Metro, stopping on the way to marvel at some of the most elaborately decorated stations of the world-famous Moscow subway system. Take a stroll along Old Arbat street - the most famous street in Moscow. Through the centuries Arbat used to be one of the most bohemian places in Moscow. Today Arbat is a promenade full of small cozy cafes and street life.

The afternoon is free for you to either enjoy the rest of the day on your own or choose among optional excursions to explore more of Moscow. Visit the Tretyakov Gallery or Pushkin State Museum to admire Russian art. Join locals for a stroll at the Gorky or VDNH park.

Visit beautiful Kolomeskoye Estate or Izmailovo Kremlin, or spend a day exploring the beautiful city of the Golden Ring (Russian province) - Sergiev Posad. In the evening you will be transferred to the airport for your departure to your next destination.

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Group airport/train-station arrival and departure transfers

All transportation according to the itinerary with a private driver

4* hotel accommodation in the historical city center (twin/double)

Local licensed English-speaking guide

All activities, indicated in the itinerary, except optional

Entry fees according to the itinerary (skip-the-lines policy)

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Russian visa and visa fees. Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service here .

Optional excursions/activities

*Private tour. Price is per person, based on min 2 people

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Our team offers over 18 years of experience travelling and planning travel in Russia. Delivering outstanding travel experiences in Russia’s capitals and in some of the most stunning & remote locations takes experience, special access and the right connections. We make sure that all the fine details are handled perfectly so you can enjoy your Russia travel experience.

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Group & Private Tours

The choice to join a small group on a guaranteed departure or chose to travel on your own dates with your own mates. Each destination we travel to in Russia offers an option between private tours and small group tours. Please note: on our adventure tours in remote destinations, we mostly run group tours to keep the cost down.

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From USD $730

Day 1: Panoramic city tour

Day 2: red square and kremlin, day 3: metro and arbat street, not included, start planning your tour.

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Hop On Hop Off in Moscow

City Sightseeing: Moscow Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing: Moscow Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

  • The Bus Tour offers unlimited 360° panoramic views of main sights of Moscow.
  • Access to audio-guide in 10 different languages which enables to know about Moscow’s history and traditions.
  • The three-bus tour routes and 40+ stops around Moscow completes the trip. Draw an itinerary to explore the city on your own.
  • There can be a boat tour and bus tour to enjoy panoramic views of Moskva River.
  • Smartphone Voucher Accepted. (No need to print)
  • 24 / 48-Hours Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket
  • Red Line Audio Guide: Russian, English, German, Spanish, Italian, French, Chinese, Arabic, Portuguese, Farsi
  • Green Line Audio Guide: Russian, English, German, Spanish, Italian, French, Chinese, Arabic
  • Orange Line Audio Guide : Russian English, German, Spanish, Italian, French
  • Guided walking tour
  • Boat Tour (If option selected)
  • Red Route: Schedule: 10:00 - 18:00 , Loop: 60 Minutes, Frequency: 15 Minutes
  • Green Route: Schedule: 10:00 - 18:00 , Loop: 120 Minutes, Frequency: 30 Minutes
  • Orange Route: Schedule: 10:00 - 18:30 , Loop: 140 Minutes, Frequency: 30 Minutes

Wheelchair Access, Heating Please note that face masks must be worn on board the bus. Orange Route is temporarily suspended   

Operational Details: Walking Tour

  • Daily at 10:45 a.m.
  • Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Meeting point: next to the monument to Saints Cyril and Methodius (Kitay-Gorod metro station)

Capital River Boat Tour

  • May - October: from 11:30am to 6:30pm (Subject to change)
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Departure Point: Zaryadye Park Pier

No Cancellation Charges  up to 24 hours before the chosen travel date. 100% cancellation fee applied within 24 hours of travel date.

Hop On Hop Off Moscow Bus Tours

Moscow, the capital of Russia, is the largest and the most populous city in the country. Present on the banks of the Moskva river, this city serves as the cosmopolitan hub of the country. Carrying  871 year old rich history, this city has played an integral part of Russia’s development and therefore plays an integral role in all the aspect. Majority of the population of Russia lives in Moscow, and the city is responsible as the scientific, historical, political and architectural hub in the region. Moscow is a blend of the old and new Russian culture. The Kremlin complex in the center of the city holds the cultural and historical values of the city. Moscow was also the capital and most important part of the USSR and thus holds many gems throughout the city from that era. Not only that, but the city also brags of timeless elements from the Tsars and other rulers who ever ruled Russia. Moscow has been a hub of many social ideologies and home to popular poets and artists. When in Moscow don’t miss out The Moscow Kremlin, the colorful St. Basil’s Cathedral, the symbolic center of Russia as the Red Square and Lenin's Mausoleum, which also serves as the resting place of Vladimir Lenin and his body has been preserved there since 1924.

Other Cities in Russia

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For groups of 12 or more, you may send us an inquiry at [email protected]. Although we do not guarantee bulk deals for all our tours, there are some tours for which we can offer discounted pricing. Ordinary hop-on-hop-off bus tickets are entitled to group savings. Attractions, pass items and combo tickets aren't.

Due the nature of this type of tour and varying demand, group travellers should be aware that there is no guarantee that the group will be able to travel altogether as the available seats vary from stop to stop and depends on demand each day. The group may need to split up and/or wait for the next bus(s).

As, we cannot guarantee that the group shall be able to travel together as one group, therefore we will reduce the group size down to 4-5 smaller groups per ticket (depending upon group size).

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Russian Tours and Cruises from Express to Russia

  • Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Moscow Kremlin, photo by Walkerssk on Pixabay

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

St. Basiils Cathedral, Moscow, Photo by vierro from Pexels

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Photo by Andrey Omelyanchuk on Unsplash

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

three capes tours

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

three capes tours

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

three capes tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

three capes tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

three capes tours

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

three capes tours

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

three capes tours

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

three capes tours

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

three capes tours

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

three capes tours

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

three capes tours

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Spasskaya Tower,Moscow Kremlin, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

Portrait of Leo Tolstoy by Ilya Repin (1887)

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy convent, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

St. Basil's Cathedral, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

three capes tours

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

three capes tours

Moscow Metro walking tour

The Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

three capes tours

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

three capes tours

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Girl with Peaches by Alexander Serov

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

three capes tours

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka, photo by Detonart at Pixabay

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Customer

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Novodevichy Convent, Moscow

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Kremlin in the times of Ivan III

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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COMMENTS

  1. Breathtaking Views of Three Capes Scenic Loop

    An easy day's drive, with plenty of cool stops. While the Three Capes Scenic Route is an easy day's drive, several historical sites and state parks along the way are worth stopping at to stretch your legs. After all, the very best views aren't seen from the passenger seat of a car or RV, but after a short trek up a wooded trail.

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    The route will take you past some of the most striking scenery in the area, including the three capes of Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda. Hugging the ocean, this alternative route certainly justifies leaving the highway, with new sights around every corner. The twisting road offers glimpses of the ocean, running through quaint beach ...

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    Unlace the boots, read a book with sea breeze in your toes. Those with a penchant for pampering can forego today's walk and spend the day at Cape Pillar Lodge. Enjoy one of our relaxing treatments ranging from 30 to 60 minutes and immerse yourself in the enchanting surrounds. Day 4: Cape Pillar Lodge - Fortescue Bay.

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    The Three Capes Scenic Route is a 40-mile loop featuring the best of the Oregon coast, including Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda. News; ... Cape Kiwanda is the smallest cape on our tour, but it is considered to be the most picturesque, and it is definitely the most popular. Located just north of Pacific City, the last stop on the ...

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    The hiking tour on the Three Capes & Tukana/Tasman Peninsula is of moderate difficulty. It offers adventurers a chance to explore breathtaking landscapes while challenging themselves along the way. Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Hiking Tour? There are no age restrictions for this hiking tour. It offers an adventurous experience for all ...

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    Northern Oregon Coast Day Trip to Three Capes Scenic Loop cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. ... Out tour guide Dean was the most knowledgeable person, being able to accommodate everyone's needs and giving us a very detailed tour on the way. Couldn't ask for a ...

  11. Three Capes Scenic Drive

    Starting In the still tiny coastal town of Pacific City. Plenty of hotels for families and B&B's for couples, great spots to eat, Twist wine bar and the brewery. Cape Kiawanda is the first Cape, make sure you climb up to the top. Next stop in Cape Lookout. The trail at the summit is 2.4 miles out into the ocean.

  12. Three Capes Walk

    The Three Capes walk is on the Tasman Peninsula, which is located in the south-east of Tasmania. On the way to the peninsula, you will drive through some of Tasmania's rich heritage, rolling vineyards and hills. It is approximately 100 kms from CBD Hobart a travel time of about 90 minutes by vehicle.

  13. Hiking the THREE CAPES TRACK

    Storyseats. Hiking the Three Capes Track Itinerary. Day 1 - Denman's Cove to Surveyors. Day 2 - Surveyors Hut to Munro Hut. Day 3 - Munro Hut to Retakunna Hut via Cape Pillar. Day 4 - Retakunna to Fortescue Bay via Cape Hauy. Conclusion to the Three Capes Hike in Tasmania.

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    Three Capes 3 Day Walk. 3 days - Guided Walk Package. Day 1. Your day will begin at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Hobart, where you will depart for your three day escape and travel out to the Tasman National Park at 8:00am. The geographically isolated peninsula, has over one third of Tasmania's recorded plant species including more than 60 ...

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    Contact us. Phone: 1300 TASPARKS (1300 827 727) Email: [email protected]

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    Explore the highlights of the magical Tasman Peninsula over four fantastic days of walking and sightseeing. This itinerary incorporates some of Tasmania's most spectacular scenery. Enjoy towering clifftops, marvel at amazing rock formations and take a cruise around the spectacular Tasman Peninsula.

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    This scenic flight departs from Franklin Wharf and heads South-East to the spectacular Tasman Peninsula. From here we will take in the famous Three Capes from a perspective that not many people get to experience. A touch down at Port Arthur to view the UNESCO World Heritage listed convict site and its surrounds from the water.

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    In just three days, this Moscow itinerary takes in all the most iconic sights of this attraction-packed destination. After two and half days getting acquainted with the city, we've set time aside for you to explore Moscow your way and discover your own favourite hang-outs in a city overflowing with hidden treasures. 3-Day Moscow Tour Highlights:

  21. Hop On Hop Off Moscow Tours

    City Sightseeing: Moscow Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour. The Bus Tour offers unlimited 360° panoramic views of main sights of Moscow. Access to audio-guide in 10 different languages which enables to know about Moscow's history and traditions. The three-bus tour routes and 40+ stops around Moscow completes the trip.

  22. The 20 Best Moscow Tours for 2022

    This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing. $ 941 From/Per person. Details.

  23. Moscow: City Sightseeing Tour by Car/Bus

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