Donaghys Hill
Big views, tiny climb
- Home
- Destinations
- Australia
- Tasmania
- Donaghys Hill
Donaghys Hill
A short, steady climb through forest to a rocky outcrop with views that rival walks twice its length. Donaghys Hill proves you do not need distance or difficulty to find spectacular Western Tasmanian scenery.
At a Glance
The walk is 2.2km return and usually takes around 40 minutes. Allow extra time to linger at the lookout if the weather is clear.
This is a Grade 2 walk. The track climbs steadily uphill through forest and scrub, but it is short and not technical.
The trailhead is directly off the Lyell Highway between Lake St Clair and Queenstown, with parking near the start of the track.
Yes. The short distance and manageable gradient make it a great beginner-friendly walk with a much bigger view than the effort suggests.
A clear day gives you the full mountain panorama, while misty or overcast weather can still be atmospheric. Winter can add snow-dusted peaks, but the lookout may be cold and windy.
What to Expect on Donaghys Hill
This walk is ideal if you:
Donaghys Hill proves that short walks in Tasmania can still feel remarkable. The track is straightforward, the climb is steady, and the payoff is completely disproportionate to the effort required.
Expect a gentle but consistent uphill climb through dense forest and scrub, a well-defined track, rockier terrain near the lookout, panoramic mountain views and a spot that feels remote despite being just off the highway.
Best Time to Visit Donaghys Hill
Donaghys Hill works year-round, but the experience changes with the weather. Clear days give you the full dramatic effect of the peaks stretching across the range, while mist and low cloud make the landscape moodier and more atmospheric.
Spring, summer and autumn usually offer the simplest walking conditions. Winter can be beautiful when the distant peaks are dusted with snow, but overcast days are common and the exposed lookout can be extremely cold in wind.
Track Conditions and Things to Be Aware Of
Bring a layer for the lookout
The forest is sheltered, but the rocky lookout is exposed. Even on a short walk, wind can make the top feel much colder than the car park.
The track is well-defined and easy to follow. It climbs steadily through forest and scrub, then becomes slightly rockier as you approach the lookout. There is no water available on the track, though the walk is short enough that you will not need much.
Climbing Through the Forest
The first part of the walk winds steadily uphill through dense forest and scrub. It is a simple climb with no real surprises, and the shaded forest makes a pleasant start before the track begins to open.
As you climb, glimpses of the surrounding landscape start to appear through gaps in the vegetation. These early views are a good hint that something much bigger is coming.
The Lookout and the Peaks
The lookout sits on a rocky outcrop with sweeping views across the peaks of Western Tasmania. On a clear day, Frenchmans Cap is the most recognisable shape, rising above the surrounding ranges with its distinctive silhouette.
From here you may also be able to identify Phillips Peak, Pine Knob, Goulds Sugarloaf and Pyramid Mountain. The Peak Finder app can make the lookout even more rewarding if you enjoy naming the mountains around you.
Return to the car the same way you came. If you are planning a full Lyell Highway day, combine Donaghys Hill with Franklin Nature Trail, Nelson Falls and the Lake St Clair walks.
Come on the walk with me
Watch the walk on Instagram.
Explore Some More
Bivouac Bay
I love a walk with plenty of variety, and this one made the kilometres feel like mere metres!
Cape Hauy
A stunning loop walk along one of Tasmania's most dramatic coastlines, with towering dolerite cliffs, endless ocean views, and some of the best whale spotting on the peninsula.
Cape Raoul
A challenging and exhilarating walk to one of Tasmania's most dramatic coastlines, and some of the best dolerite column formations on the planet.
Coal Mines Historic Site
Crumbling convict-era ruins, underground cells, and sweeping views of Norfolk Bay, all within a short and easy walk.
Donaghys Hill
A short, steady climb through forest to a rocky outcrop with views that rival walks twice its length. Donaghys Hill proves you do not need distance or difficulty…
Duckhole Lake
An accessible adventure into Tasmania’s wild south, and a perfect introduction to its karst landscapes.
Echo Point
A flat walk skirting Australia's deepest freshwater lake
Fluted Cape
If you only have time for one short walk on Bruny Island, make it this one.
Franklin Nature Trail
A gentle 1 km loop through mossy rainforest to the banks of the Franklin River, ideal for slowing down on the Lyell Highway.
Hartz Peak
A short but impactful hike to the summit of Hartz Peak, showcasing a dazzling array of plant diversity!
Hogarth Falls
A gentle 2.4 km return walk through People's Park in Strahan to Hogarth Falls, with rainforest, creek views and native flora signs.
Kelly Basin
Walk 10.8 km return through West Coast rainforest to the ghostly ruins of Kelly Basin and the old settlement of East Pillinger.
Labillardiere Peninsula
Pack plenty of snacks and your swimmers, and turn this hike into a full-day adventure
Lake Esperance
A walk through waratahs and a lush Tasmanian alpine landscape
Mount Rufus
Summit views that will have you spinning around like a needle in a compass
Russell Falls
This is Tasmania's most photographed waterfall, reached via one of the state's most accessible tracks. It's a short, easy walk on a sealed path suitable for wheelchairs and…
Shadow Lake
Sitting quietly beneath the more famous peaks of Lake St Clair National Park, Shadow Lake remains an underrated gem. If peaceful alpine lakes and magical hidden valleys sound…
South Cape Bay
A beautifully varied walk to the very end of the road, and the edge of the continent.
Tahune Airwalk
A spectacular elevated walkway through the forest canopy, high above the rivers of Tasmania's wild southwest.
Tall Trees
This is a short loop through a forest of swamp gums that have been growing for nearly 400 years.
Three Falls Circuit
A beautifully varied loop through the rainforests of Mount Field National Park, ticking off three of Tasmania's 60 Great Short Walks in a single half-day outing.
Waterfall Bay
Spectacular coastal views, dramatic rock formations, and some of the best wildlife spotting on the Tasman Peninsula, all within a casual clifftop stroll.