Dolerite is appropriately referred to as 'the rock that made Tasmania'. Dolerite is an igneous rock that was initially molten and injected as a fluid into older sedimentary rocks. It forms the iconic 'organ pipes' landscape on the Tasman Peninsula and the Central Plateau. The sedimentary rocks are softer and erode faster leaving the Dolerite rock now exposed. The Dolerite found on the southern capes of Tasmania are called Jurassic Dolerite, formed 175 million years ago.
This spectacular scenery is what draws hikers to experience -
Three Capes Track
There are three main Capes and several other hikes associated with hiking the Three Capes Track. Hikers have the option of backpacking or hiring one of several companies that will take you to the trail heads of the capes and pick you up after each hike, landing back in a lodge. The hiking is moderate to difficult. The Capes are Pillar, Raoul and Hauy - the last cape has several elevation changes including 4,300 steps to climb. It is recommended that hikers have a good level of fitness and health. Expect to do about 50kms (30miles) of hiking in four days.
The scenery along the way, the views at the end of the capes and the beautiful flowers along the trails - made you realize you were on some of the most beautiful coastal hikes in the world.
Remarkable Cave is a stop on the way to Crescent Bay Hike. It is called remarkable because the silhouette of the cave looking out to the Tasman Sea is an almost identical replica of the shape of the Tasmanian Island. I caught a surfer going by at just the right time, kodak moment…..
It’s not just hikers that find there way out to the end of the Capes - a large colony of Fur Seals were enjoying the sunshine at the end of Cape Pillar.
If you’re into hiking - these coastal hikes in Tasmania are certainly worth the trip. Perhaps the Three Capes Track should be on your “Bucket List”.
