In choosing to explore the North South Track, on the north-east slopes of kunanyi / Mount Wellington, our small walking group discovered beautiful and interesting flora, which ranged from open woodland to subalpine vegetation. We walked through a varied landscape, which included caves, impressive weathered sandstone cliffs and cascad­ing mountain streams, whilst enjoying panoramic views over Glenorchy, the Derwent River and the Eastern Shore.

The North South Track commences via the gates at the western end of Tolosa Street, Glenorchy. While there are some reasonably steep sections on the track, these are not sustained. This well-main­tained track eventually leads to either Junction Cabin, the Chalet, or the Springs. At the junction with the Old Hobartians Track we had the choice to walk some three kilometres downhill to Junction Cabin or some two kilometres uphill to the Chalet. We chose the route to the Chalet.

Part of the North South Track is in the Glenorchy Mountain Bike Park and well used by riders. Walkers need to be aware the track is designated for shared use for both walkers and mountain bike riders. We experienced no problems with the “shared” track as both walkers and bike riders were alert and respectful of each other. The North South Track is one of many tracks on kunanyi / Mount Wellington and but one example that, to walk these tracks is to discover a wide variety of vegetation, landscape and views from the wilderness located in Hobart’s backyard.