Trousers Point Coastal Walk
- August 24, 2026
An easy coastal walk between granite headlands, with Mount Strzelecki as a backdrop.
The Mount Strzelecki Summit Walk, officially known as the Strzelecki Peaks Walk, is one of the outstanding day walks on Flinders Island. Climbing to the 756-metre summit of Mount Strzelecki, the highest point on the island, this steep and rewarding walk provides spectacular 360-degree views across Flinders Island, the Furneaux Group and the surrounding waters of Bass Strait. The walk begins close to sea level and climbs through changing vegetation including ferny forest, she-oak woodland and colourful heath before reaching the exposed granite country around the summit. It is a demanding climb requiring good fitness and bushwalking experience, but in clear weather the views from the top are among the finest in Tasmania.
| Location | Strzelecki National Park, Flinders Island, Tasmania |
| Distance | 5.6 km return |
| Time | Approximately 4–5 hours return |
| Difficulty | Hard – Grade 4 |
| Track Type | Return |
| Summit | 756 metres |
| Starting Elevation | Approximately 20 metres |
| Elevation Gain | Approximately 736 metres |
| Track Surface | Natural bush track, steep rocky sections and granite terrain |
| Suitable for Children | Experienced older children only – close supervision required |
| National Park Pass | Yes – a valid Tasmania Parks Pass is required |
Mount Strzelecki dominates the southern end of Flinders Island and is the highest point within Strzelecki National Park. Its distinctive granite peaks are a major landmark of the Furneaux Group and can even be seen from mainland Tasmania in suitable conditions. The summit walk is recognised as one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. Despite the relatively short 5.6-kilometre return distance, this is not a quick or easy walk. The track climbs from approximately 20 metres above sea level to the 756-metre summit, meaning walkers gain more than 700 metres of elevation in less than three kilometres.
The track begins in relatively sheltered vegetation before climbing steadily through ferns, she-oak stands and wildflower heath. As elevation increases, the vegetation becomes lower and the granite landscape of the Strzelecki Peaks becomes increasingly prominent. The upper sections are steep, rough and exposed. While Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service notes that there is nothing technically difficult about the climb, the combination of steep terrain, rocks and substantial elevation gain makes it physically demanding.
The Strzelecki Peaks Walk is officially rated Grade 4, meaning bushwalking experience is recommended. Grade 4 tracks can be long, rough and very steep, and directional signage may be limited. The biggest challenge is the climb itself. Starting at around 20 metres and finishing at 756 metres means there is very little flat walking. Good fitness, suitable footwear and appropriate clothing are strongly recommended.
The major reward for the climb is the extraordinary panorama from the summit of Mount Strzelecki. On a clear day, walkers can look across Flinders Island, the surrounding islands of the Furneaux Group and the waters of Bass Strait. Visibility can extend all the way to mainland Tasmania, making this one of the finest elevated viewpoints in the Bass Strait islands.
One of the pleasures of the walk is watching the landscape change as you climb. The lower slopes contain ferns and forest before giving way to she-oak, heathland and increasingly exposed alpine-style vegetation around the granite peaks.
The enormous granite formations of the Strzelecki Range give the upper mountain its distinctive character. These granite massifs dominate the southern part of Flinders Island and provide a dramatic backdrop throughout the upper stages of the climb. Top Tip: Choose the clearest and calmest day available during your stay on Flinders Island. Cloud can obscure the summit views, while strong winds can make the exposed upper mountain considerably more difficult and uncomfortable.
Conditions on Mount Strzelecki can be very different from those near sea level. Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service warns that the summit can become very cold and windy, even when conditions lower on Flinders Island appear relatively mild. Flinders Island has a cool maritime climate and strong westerly winds can persist for days. Check the forecast immediately before starting and be prepared to turn around if conditions deteriorate.
The walk may be suitable for fit, experienced older children who are accustomed to challenging bushwalks, but this is not generally a walk for young children. Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service specifically advises that children should be supervised because the route includes hazardous cliffs and unprotected track edges. The steep climb, long duration and possibility of rapidly changing weather also need to be considered.
No. Mount Strzelecki is within Strzelecki National Park, and pets are not permitted in Tasmania’s national parks except in specific circumstances such as authorised assistance animals.
The Strzelecki Peaks track begins approximately 12.5 kilometres from Whitemark on Flinders Island. From Whitemark, travel south towards Lady Barron along the B85 before turning onto the C806. Continue for approximately 6 kilometres along the C806 until you reach a sign and stile on the left marking the beginning of the Strzelecki Peaks walking track. There is no public transport around Flinders Island, so visitors should arrange a hire vehicle or other transport before arriving.
Facilities at the Strzelecki Peaks trailhead are limited. The nearest substantial visitor facilities are approximately 3.5 kilometres away at Trousers Point.
Facilities at Trousers Point include:
Walkers should nevertheless carry all of the drinking water and food required for the summit walk.
Yes. Strzelecki Peaks is within Strzelecki National Park, so a valid Tasmania Parks Pass is required. Visitors should arrange their park pass before undertaking the walk and check current Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service information for any alerts, closures or changed conditions.
The Mount Strzelecki Summit Walk is one of the defining outdoor experiences on Flinders Island. Few walks combine such a dramatic climb from near sea level with expansive views across islands, beaches, mountains and Bass Strait. The 5.6-kilometre distance may appear relatively modest, but the 736 metres of elevation gain makes this a genuine mountain walk and a rewarding challenge for experienced walkers. On a clear day, standing 756 metres above Flinders Island with the Furneaux Group spread out below is an unforgettable experience and easily explains why Strzelecki Peaks is recognised as one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks.
An easy coastal walk between granite headlands, with Mount Strzelecki as a backdrop.
