About The Nut
The Nut is a sheer-sided volcanic plug rising 143 metres above the town of Stanley in north-west Tasmania. Located within The Nut State Reserve, it is the remnant of an ancient volcanic intrusion formed about 13 million years ago. Notable for its flat grassy summit plateau, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic views over Bass Strait and the historic village of Stanley.
Visitors guide
Visitors can reach the flat summit plateau either by a steep walking track or by the Stanley Chairlift. The summit offers 360-degree views over Bass Strait, Stanley village, and surrounding farmland, with well-formed walking circuits, lookouts, and interpretation signs. The base area has parking, toilets and chairlift facilities. The landscape is exposed grassland with sheer cliffs and coastal vegetation.
Key highlights
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143-metre high volcanic plug with sheer cliffs and flat summit plateau
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Stanley Chairlift providing access to the summit
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360-degree panoramic views over Bass Strait and Stanley
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Summit circuit walk with lookouts and interpretation signs
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Steep walking track (The Nut Track) from the base to summit
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Wildlife viewing including seabirds and pademelons
History of The Nut
Formed by volcanic activity about 13 million years ago as a basaltic intrusion. Sighted and named Circular Head by explorers George Bass and Matthew Flinders in 1798 due to its distinctive shape. The town of Stanley was established at its base in the 1820s as a Van Diemen's Land Company settlement, with Highfield House nearby.
Culture & Context
Known to the local Aboriginal people as Moo-Nut-Re-Ker (Munatrik) and holds significance for the North West Aboriginal community. The Nut is an iconic landmark of north-west Tasmania and a symbol of the town of Stanley, featured in local heritage and tourism identity.
Route
| By air | Fly to Burnie Wynyard Airport (BWT) then drive approximately 60 km to Stanley |
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