Pinnacle Road Closure Status: Latest Updates for Visitors to kunanyi/Mt Wellington

Kunanyi / Mt Wellington is a must experience location for visitors of the city of Hobart, Tasmania. With amazing waterfalls, walking tracks and the magnificent view from the summit, The Mountain, as locals tend to call it, has so much to offer and Pinnacle Road plays a vital part in providing access to most areas.

Whilst Pinnacle Road can take you all the way to the summit, it is important to understand the Pinnacle Road current road status before embarking on your trip, especially in colder weather.

Pinnacle Current Road Status and Updates

• The Hobart City Council is responsible for providing advice on Pinnacle Road’s current conditions.
• Updates are provided frequently to ensure visitors can access an up-to-date road status.
• To access Pinnacle Road’s road closure status, visit the dedicated Hobart City Council website.

Reasons For Road Closures

Pinnacle Road can be closed for a number of reasons including:

• Weather related reasons including snow, ice and high winds. Closures may also occur in times of high fire danger.
• Avoiding traffic congestion. The Hobart City Council monitors the amount of traffic on the mountain to ensure traffic flow is maintained.
• Enabling the road to be used special for events. The main one being the Point to Pinnacle fun run/walk held in October each year.
• Maintenance of the road and it’s surrounds. Like any road, maintenance is required and from time to time, trees may need to be trimmed or fallen rocks removed.

What ever the reason for the closure, the driving factor is almost always safety of those wanting to visit both in the immediate and long term future.

What to Do During Road Closures

Pinnacle road has several boom gates that the council can close, preventing cars from travelling any further up Mt Wellington. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t access the mountain at all. Here are some alternate options in times of road closures:

• Park your car safely and venture up Pinnacle Road on foot.
• Explore the numerous walking trails within the Wellington Park. Check out the Hobart City Councils guide to short walks in the snow.
• Wait! Sometimes the road is only closed for a short period of time. Council workers may be on hand to give an indication as to if the road will reopen soon. And keep checking the council website for updates.
• Explore the town of Fern tree.
• As a last resort, head back down and return at another time

Preparing for Your Visit

Be ready for everything! As we like to say…there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing choices!

• If you are just planning to drive up and down, at a minimum, take a warm jacket. If you have gloves and beanie, it won’t hurt to take them with you.
• If you are planning on any of the short walks add in sturdy (and waterproof if possible) shoes and a waterproof jacket.
• If you are venturing further on extended walks, pack sufficient food and water and ensure someone knows your expected route and planned time of return. Also consider packing a personal location device (EPIRB).
• Particularly for those planning on undertaking some of the longer walks on offer, but also for others, be sure to check weather forecasts before heading out. Conditions can change very quickly and people have been known to be caught unaware.

Key Resources

• Pinnacle Road Closure Status
• Bureau of Meteorology Weather Forecast
• Kunanyi/Mt Wellington Walking Trails
• Kunanyi/Mt Wellington Snow Information
• Wellington Park Information

FAQs

Where will the road be closed in the event of bad weather?

There are 6 gates starting from Huon Road to just short of the summit. Closures depend on the conditions.

Why does it take so long to reopen the road?

Whilst the snow may have melted, ice can often remain for longer periods making the road unsafe.

Can I drive up Pinnacle Road with snow chains on my vehicle?

No. The council will only reopen the road when it is safe for all vehicles. This is to ensure that snow-clearing machinery is not hindered by other vehicles.

Can I walk to the summit from a closed gate?

Yes. But it is important to ensure you are well prepared, experienced and in a group.

What is at the summit of Mt Wellington?

At the summit, you will find various viewing platforms, a sheltered informative viewing shelter and toilets.

What facilities are on Mt Wellington?

• At the summit, you will find various viewing platforms, a sheltered informative viewing shelter and toilets.
• At The Springs (approximately halfway up the mountain) you can find BBQ and picnic facilities, toilets and The Lost Freight Café serving snacks and hot drinks.

Is a Parks Pass needed to enter the Mt Wellington park?

No. There are no passes needed or fees applicable when visiting Kunanyi/Mt Wellington.

Conclusion

Whilst you may see road closures as a negative, don’t. There are many ways to enjoy Kunanyi/Mt Wellington in the event that you are unable to reach the summit. Just check the conditions and closures, be prepared and be adaptable.

And don’t forget to take advantage of the Take A Local Kunanyi/Mt Wellington tour!