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About The Nut
A dramatic flat-topped volcanic plug rising 143 metres above the historic town of Stanley on Tasmania's northwest coast, formed by the solidification of magma in the vent of an ancient volcano over 12.4 million years ago. Visitors can reach the summit via a chairlift or a steep 20-minute walking track, where a 2km clifftop circuit provides views over Bass Strait, the surrounding farmland, and the historic streetscape of Stanley below. The summit is home to a colony of little penguins.
About
A dramatic flat-topped volcanic plug rising 143 metres above the historic town of Stanley on Tasmania's northwest coast, formed by the solidification of magma in the vent of an ancient volcano over 12.4 million years ago. Visitors can reach the summit via a chairlift or a steep 20-minute walking track, where a 2km clifftop circuit provides views over Bass Strait, the surrounding farmland, and the historic streetscape of Stanley below. The summit is home to a colony of little penguins.
History & Significance
The Nut is the eroded neck of an ancient volcano, formed when magma solidified within the volcanic vent over 12.4 million years ago. The surrounding rock wore away over millennia, leaving this distinctive 143-metre flat-topped plug dominating the coastline. Stanley developed as a historic port town at its base in the 1820s, and the formation remains a landmark and habitat for little penguins.
Video
Getting There
Stanley town centre, on Tasmania's northwest coast. From Launceston, drive northwest via Devonport (approximately 2 hours total). The Nut is signposted in Stanley. No public transport available—own vehicle essential.
Parking
Free parking available at the base of the Nut near the chairlift station. Capacity appears adequate for most days, but can fill during peak tourist seasons. Wheelchair accessible parking provided. Overflow parking available in Stanley town centre, a short walk away.
Visitor Tips
- •Take the chairlift if you have mobility concerns or want to conserve energy for the summit walk
- •Arrive early (9:30am opening) to avoid queues and secure parking
- •Bring a windproof jacket—the exposed summit can be windy and cold even on mild days
- •Watch for little penguins at dusk during breeding season (September–April)
- •The 2km clifftop circuit is uneven in places; sturdy footwear essential
- •Allow 1–2 hours total including chairlift queue and summit exploration
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Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- State
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Paid
- Duration
- 1-2 hours
- Best Time
- September to April for little penguin sightings at dusk. October to March offers warmest weather but can be busy. Avoid windy days when chairlift may close. Weekdays quieter than weekends.
- Hours
- Chairlift 9:30am-5pm daily (weather permitting)
Location
- Area
- Stanley
- Region
- West Coast
- State
- Tasmania
Good to Know
Highlights
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages. Chairlift suitable for young children and elderly visitors; walking track steep but manageable for most ages with reasonable fitness.
- Shade/Cover
- Limited shade
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
Picnic area at the base; bring food and water. Stanley town centre has cafes and restaurants within walking distance.
Features
Facilities
Nearby
Trails(3)
Attractions(1)
Toilets(3)
Fuel(3)
Dump Points(4)
Tatlows Beach
Free · 0.3km
RV Dump Point
Free · 0.5km
West Esplanade
Free · 16.8km
Sisters Beach Dump Point
Free · 28.7km
Weigh Stations(1)
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Nearby
Trails(3)
Attractions(1)
Toilets(3)
Fuel(3)
Dump Points(4)
Tatlows Beach
Free · 0.3km
RV Dump Point
Free · 0.5km
West Esplanade
Free · 16.8km
Sisters Beach Dump Point
Free · 28.7km