Knocklofty Reserve is native bushland in the backyard of West Hobart and Mount Stuart, two kilometres from the centre of Hobart.

There are many interesting walks around the reserve on a network of well-maintained walking tracks and fire trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Tracks follow the contours of Mount Stuart, easing the steepness of the uphill walks. Strategically placed seats give spectacular views over Hobart, and across the Derwent River. There are car parks off Forest Road and at the Mount Stuart Lookout. We began our walk at the Mount Stuart Lookout car park.

We started a summit circuit at the Fiona Allen Memorial Walk, a distance of 1.8 kilometres to Knocklofty summit. The morning sun shone on the world below. A wallaby, still as a statue, observed our climb. Skinks slipped under rocks. Butterflies fluttered all through the bush.

At the summit, 374 metres above sea level, kunanyi/Mount Wellington appears on the horizon. Electricity pylons march up the hill, revealing the northern suburbs to Claremont and beyond.

We walked 2.4 kilometres downhill to lunch at Knocklofty Picnic Area. The downhill track overlooks South Hobart, with the Hartz Mountains shining blue in the distance. Refreshed, we took a side track to the Reflection Pond, a perfect mirror in an old sandstone quarry. Another side track circled the Frog Dam, where six species of frog have been recorded.

Also of interest is the Glover Track, which leads to the view of Hobart painted by 19th century artist John Glover. This picture is now hanging in Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. We returned via the Mount Stuart Track to the Mount Stuart Lookout car park, completing our summit loop. We were refreshed and exhilarated by the beauty of Hobart, seen from every compass point.