Oh, my goodness, what a hike! 

Of all the day walks we tackled in Australia, this was certainly one of the most adventurous and technical due to the steep incline and slippery sheets of smooth granite rock that form the walking track. 

But then the fabulous views from Mt Amos out across the sparkling turquoise sea, white sandy beaches and the Freycinet Peninsula, covered in dense coastal bushland, are also one of a kind and well worth the effort. Located between Coles Bay and Wineglass Bay, Mount Amos is part of the Hazards, a range of pink granite mountains in Freycinet National Park and one of Tasmania’s most scenic spots.

The warning signs at the trailhead might make you doubt your ability to reach the summit, and more importantly shuffle back down on your butt. If that’s the case, head over to the Visitor Centre first to talk to the lovely staff there. And if you’re still unsure, give it a go, and if at any point you feel uncomfortable, enjoy the views of Coles Bay, and head back. Always keep in mind though that this is one of the few occasions where going up is a whole lot easier than coming down.

The signs also strongly advise against hiking Mt Amos after rain, and I couldn’t agree more. The rock will be beyond slippery and even if you do make it up, there’s no way you’ll come down safely. Even on a fine day, you’ll probably be sliding down some of the steep sections on your butt anyway. Wear shoes with lots of grips and don’t take hiking poles. Due to the steep gradient of the track, poles will not be of much help on the large smooth granite boulders. Clinging onto the stunted, skinny trees that themselves cling precariously to sheer rock wall seemed a much safer alternative.

From the trailhead at Wineglass Bay car park, the track winds through the eucalypt forest before the triangular markers point straight up the sheer granite wall. That’s the start of the tricky section where you’ll be squeezing through narrow crevices, hoisting yourself onto large boulders, and clambering up the steep rock face to the trail’s end-point at the very top. 

While some may find these steep sections exhilarating and fun, others like myself will be glad when they finally reach a small plateau where the trail flattens out for a few minutes before arriving at a terrific lookout. That’s the end of the trail, with your reward for the steep uphill slog waiting: the most amazing views of the forested slopes of Freycinet Peninsula running down to the turquoise waters of Wineglass Bay. 

The sliver of white sandy beach that curves along the bay in a long sweeping arch marks the halfway mark of the wonderful Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach loop walk, which we walked a few years ago. It’s a much gentler walk than Mt Amos for sure but equally scenic, and you have the opportunity of a swim halfway through.

Return by the same track. If you find yourself struggling down the steep bits, keep low to the ground, shuffle down on your butt if necessary, and use your hands for support.