Pipe Track, Ferntree, Hobart: This Is A 16 Mile...

Hobart, Australia

Pipe Track, Ferntree, Hobart: this is a 16 mile return run along a gravel/grass/dirt track at an altitude of 2000 feet (600 m) above sea level on the slopes of Hobarts Mt. Wellington. Run starts at the Ferntree Tavern, 15 mins drive from the centre of Hobart, on the Huon highway. The track is a walking track, but used by the occasional Council vehicle for maintenance access to the water Pipeline which the track follows. It's flat, but has a gradual climb on the out-bound leg. It's an out-and-back route, with no escape after about 2 1/2 miles after which it ceases to run parallel to the Huon highway and turns through bush to contour around the western side of Mt. Wellington. It's a joy to run. Mostly through wet gum forest, with some patches of semi-alpine vegetation and rainforest gullies. Many birds, flowering plants, particularly in spring. Views from some spots across the Derwent river are excellent. Being a high-level run, it's subject to mist and rain at times, snow in winter. Pays to check out the mountain from Hobart before commencing and dress accordingly.