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New Track at Ferndene

Natural Attractions

Dial Range - Ferndene Track

In the late 1800s, various high value minerals were found in the area surrounding Penguin. This soon led to mining leases across this part of the coast and into what is now Ferndene State Reserve. Today, Ferndene provides a beautiful picnic area and the opportunity to explore the mining history in this area. Follow this enchanting short walk through the towering tree ferns and meandering creeks until you reach Brownings and Thorsbys Tunnels. These tunnels were used to mine a variety of minerals including silver and copper. Viability of the operations was questioned and eventually the operations ceased. While walking, enjoy the sound of the burbling creek below you and watch the woodland birds flitting through the trees. You may be lucky and see a wallaby hiding amongst the ferns in the dappled sunlight. The track climbs approximately 30m elevation over a distance of 750m.

Penguin TAS

6.2 km away

Mount Montgomery — Image credit: PWS copyright

Natural Attractions

Mount Montgomery

Mount Montgomery is a walk in the Dial Range Reserves. 2 hours return, 5km return. Grade 3. The Dial Range is a distinctive feature of the landscape around the central north-west coast, consisting of multiple peaks with walking tracks. The summit of Mount Montgomery provides stunning views over the towns of Ulverstone, Penguin and across the broader coastline. It is unusual to have easy access to a mountain peak that provides such spectacular views over a large stretch of Tasmanian coastline. Meander through the dry eucalypt woodland, following Myrtle Creek. This creek bed varies throughout the year from completely dry through to a rushing river, with small waterfalls cascading down the surrounding rock formations. Explore different vegetation as the track continues to climb up to the summit at an elevation of 471m. Along the track you'll be able to see various orchids, fungi and wildlife. Be aware of mountain bikes in this area; all tracks are signposted as to whether they are for walking, bike riding or shared use. This track climbs approximately 330m in elevation over a distance of 2.5km. This route is approximately 1.5 hours return. Please refer to the Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania website (parks.tas.gov.au) for up-to-date information about this walk, alerts, closures, safe walking guidelines, leave no trace principles and National Park entry fees where applicable.

Penguin TAS

8.0 km away

Mount Dial Walk — Image credit: Joint copyright - PWS and photographer Luke O'Brien

Natural Attractions

Mount Dial Walk

Mount Dial Walk is a walk in the Dial Range Reserves. 4-5 hours return, 8.2km. Grade 3. Mount Dial is located towards the centre of the Dial Range. A network of walking tracks offer multiple possible routes, depending on available time and walking experience. See the impact of past bushfires in this region, by the affects on the vegetation growth and look for hollows amongst the trees that provide habitat for a variety of birds and small mammals. Follow the ridgeline to explore the geology that is derived mostly from Duncan conglomerate. Search for orchids along the track at higher elevation, as you approach the summit. A picnic shelter and public facilities can be found in the Ferndene State Reserve. Follow the link to the website for more information about the walking options. Please refer to the Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania website (parks.tas.gov.au) for up-to-date information about this walk, alerts, closures, safe walking guidelines, leave no trace principles and National Park entry fees where applicable.

Penguin TAS

8.0 km away

Tasmanian Devils at Wings — Image credit: Wings Wildlife Park

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Wings Wildlife Park

Wings Wildlife Park is a multi-award winning family owned business and displays the largest collection of Tasmanian wildlife in Australia. Located less than a one-hour drive from the Spirit of Tasmania ferry terminal in Devonport. Situated in Gunns Plains, 23 km south of Ulverstone, in the beautiful northwest of Tasmania, on the banks of the Leven River. Your visit to Tasmania is not complete unless you get to see some real live Tassie devils up close. The devil feed is at 1400 daily, koala presentation at 1100 and 1430, meerkats at 1130 and reptiles at 1330. You can feed the trout and the friendly kangaroos. Other animals you can see at the park include wombats, wallabies, quolls, sugar-gliders, wedge-tail eagles, reptiles, meerkats, marmosets, monkeys, bison, camels and much more. Most native animals at Wing's Wildlife Park have been rescued following injury and are released into their natural habitat when rehabilitated. Those unable to be released stay in care for the remainder of their lives. Group bookings, guided tours, encounters, catering, camping and backpacker accommodation are available. Wing's Wildlife Park has a cafe which you can access separately to the wildlife park. It is open for lunch, snacks, drinks and ice-creams. You can browse in the gift shop and find that treasured souvenir.

Gunns Plains TAS

8.6 km away

Lovely homewares and gifts in The Sea Merchant Penguin. Visually stunning homewares and gifts Beachy — Image credit: The Sea Merchant

Shopping and Markets

The Sea Merchant

The Sea Merchant is a proud small Tassie business based in the heart of Penguin. Filled with beautiful homewares, gifts, plants, flowers, jewellery, accessories and so much more! They love supporting local Tasmanian artisans and producers, so we stock a huge range of Tasmanian-made products. The gorgeous store in Penguin is a must-visit destination! Add this store to your road trip. The Sea Merchant is a delightful store, and you will always find a gift for that special person or a treasure to take home with you.

Penguin TAS

11 km away

Crystal Mantle

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Crystal Mantle

Crystal Mantle is a boutique crystal store located in the beautiful seaside town of Penguin, Tasmania. With a background in geology and opal cutting, Crystal Mantle specialises in unique, quality crystals, minerals and artisan jewellery, which is handmade in store. There is an extensive range of minerals on display, including beautiful examples of Crocoite, which is the Tasmanian Mineral Emblem.

Penguin TAS

11 km away

The Big Penguin

Landmarks and Buildings

The Big Penguin

The Big Penguin on the Penguin foreshore is iconic to the seaside town. The ferro cement penguin was erected on October 25, 1875, to commemorate the centenary of the proclamation of the town of Penguin. The penguin which stands 3 metres high is very photogenic with the Bass Strait shimmering behind.

Penguin TAS

11 km away

Penguin General Cemetery View

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Penguin General Cemetery

Voices in the wind, the stunning sunrise views over the Bass Strait, welcome to the heritage-listed Penguin General Cemetery, located along Main Street a kilometre west of the Post Office. At rest here are Bounty immigrants from the 1850s, returned soldiers from as far back as the Boer War, many of Penguin's former notables, as well as the odd ex-convict. Penguin General Cemetery dates from the 1860s; closing in 1977 it was heritage-listed in 2007 leaving behind many a Penguin General Cemetery mystery. Where will these stories take you? Who is the 'John Doe', buried 7 January 1915? Could he be Jeremiah or Michael Clifford, an Irishman in his 40s? The search for his identity continues. Penguin General Cemetery has more than eighteen hundred burials. Burial records for which there were no bodies, burials for which the locations have been misplaced. Honouring bygone lives ensures the survival of the community's heritage. Dignifying seven early 1900 pioneers, with individual gravestones, typifies Penguin community's respect for its heritage. Yet more can be done. In passing, every person leaves footprints, their stories to be found and voiced. A treasure-trove of history, information and lives gone await the curious, with much research readily available.

Penguin TAS

11 km away

Penguin's heritage Uniting Church — Image credit: Central Coast Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Penguin Heritage Trail

For those interested in heritage, this web-based trail offers a complete and detailed account of Heritage Tasmania's listing of 26 sites. Rack cards promoting the trail are available at the Information Centre or you can simply access the Penguin Heritage Trail online. The site includes all original Heritage Tasmania's listing documents as well as a wide variety of tourist attractions in and around Penguin. For those keen to explore the foreshore and CBD, it is suggested you download the 'Ambling among Penguin's charms' app covering 28 of the attractions including many of the heritage listings. A storytelling self-guided audio walking tour told by locals. Its QR code plaques are scattered around the CBD.

Penguin TAS

11 km away

Penguin Skate Park — Image credit: Central Coast council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Penguin Skate Park

A small Skate Park that gives loads of enjoyment for everyone. Situated on the western side of the main township, as part of the Johnsons Beach Precinct, this little skate park has a half pipe with decks, various wedge ramps with rails and a hubba. A small Basketball hoop setup is beside.

Penguin TAS

11 km away

Gunns Plains Caves

Natural Attractions

Gunns Plains Caves

Mr. Bill Woodhouse entered Gunns Plains Cave in 1906 after a hunting trip and discovered a series of caverns and short passages through which visitors are escorted along well lit concrete pathways. The cave entrance is situated 30 metres from the car park. Upon entry, a flight of 54 concrete steps is descended. From this point, the pathway is fairly level apart from a short ladder to be climbed down. The tour route into the cave is 275 metres in and 220 metres return. Occasional dampness underfoot is not troublesome provided visitors wear low-heeled walking shoes. It is not recommended for those with health or mobility concerns. Please check first. The cave was formed by an underground stream that still flows and contains Giant Freshwater Lobster, fish and eel. Platypus sleep and nest in the sandy banks along the river. Lofty chambers contain many varied formations including magnificent calcite shawls. The cave is renowned for magnificent shawl and flowstone formations. Improvements including LED lighting will assist visitors to enjoy the cave experience. Please see the website for opening hours and tour times.

Gunns Plains TAS

11 km away

Lake Grebe Flowers — Image credit: Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden

Parks and Gardens

Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden

Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden is a remarkable private garden with a 40+ year history, built and operated by volunteers in the northwest of Tasmania. The 11-hectare property is located just 8km south of Burnie off the Ridgley Highway, and features over 24,000 select rhododendrons and companion plants from around the world. A spectacular display of blooms can be seen between late August and November, and striking Autumn foliage colours from March to May. The tranquillity of this lush environment can be enjoyed year-round, with three pristine mirror-like lakes and expansive views from the strategically placed pavilions. The birdsong from diverse bird life and encounters with native fauna such as platypus and echidna are another unique aspect. In addition to the unique hybrid rhododendrons cultivated by the members, they conserve many wild species of rhododendrons growing in geographically defined areas of the garden, which reflect the plant's origins - from Asia, across the Himalayas to China, Japan and North America. The newly renovated Licensed Cafe provides meals and refreshments, with BYO picnics being welcome.

Burnie TAS

13 km away

Fern Glade Reserve — Image credit: Burnie City Council

Natural Attractions

Fern Glade Reserve

Fern Glade Reserve is just under 4 km from the city centre. It offers long walks along the banks of the Emu River and the chance to see a range of animals in their natural environment including platypus surfacing. The Reserve which is part of the 60 Great Short Walks for Tasmania, also offers barbecue and picnic facilities and toilets, which can be accessed by vehicles at the main entrance or from a second entrance 0.5km further up the river (Closed dusk to dawn).

Stowport TAS

14 km away

Hive Tasmania

Entertainment Venues

Hive Tasmania

Hive Tasmania in Ulverstone is a major new cultural precinct where you can travel through space and time and lose yourself in the wonders of art, science and history all under one roof. Hive is home to the Ulverstone Visitor Information Centre, Tasmania's Largest Planetarium, an inspiring Science Centre, Ulverstone Museum and Art Gallery, delightful community arts and craft studios, and a delicious on-site Cafe. Hive Tasmania promises a warm welcome from friendly staff and volunteers, a central location with lots of car parking and affordable ticket prices. It is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Visit all year round - our many attractions are all indoors where it's nice and warm, and we have great coffee at our cafe. To find out more visit our website as listed in this profile. It really is a surprise package – an amazing science and culture centre in a stunning building in the heart of the small seaside town of Ulverstone.

Ulverstone TAS

15 km away

Studio 2 Hive — Image credit: Hive Tasmania

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Leven Regional Arts @ Studio 2, Hive

Leven Regional Arts is now located in Studio 2 at Hive Studio 2 displays fine art, water colours, acrylics and pastel, textiles such as felting, fibre and fabrics, mosaics, pencil sketching, zen doodling, print making and locally crafted seaweed-fired pottery. A small Wednesday group specialises in assembling ships, planes and small engineering models. Leven Regional Arts conducts structured classes in printmaking and art practice with working artists operating in Studio 2 during opening hours. All artwork with the exception of pottery is created within Studio 2 and new members and visitors are welcome to explore Studio 2 and perhaps choose a new art practice and join one of their friendly groups.

Ulverstone TAS

15 km away

Ulverstone Planetarium — Image credit: Hive Tasmania

Observatories and Planetariums

Ulverstone Planetarium

The Planetarium will take you on a journey through space and allow you to explore the universe, all from comfort of Hive. Study the night sky and learn from the experienced staff, including resident expert and Principal Astronomer, Dr Martin George. The minimum age for attendance to the following shows is five years. Shows include The Sun: Our Living Star explains many of early ideas about the Sun and how modern science has enabled us to understand so much more today. From Earth to the Universe This 30-minute planetarium show take the audience on a voyage through time and space. Two Small Pieces of Glass looks at how a telescope works and how astronomers have used them to scrutinise the structures within our cosmos. Capturing the Cosmos highlights work being carried out by Australian astronomers. There is no minimum age limit for the two Tycho shows. All ages are welcome! Tycho to the Moon: is about a very cute dog with a fascination for the Moon and the stars. When he is given a new kennel, he flies it to the Moon and beyond! Tycho Goes to Mars: sees our favourite space dog blasting off for the Red Planet. In this show, Tycho explores many of the amazing features of Mars, including the largest volcano in the Solar System!

Ulverstone TAS

15 km away

Single buggy — Image credit: Pedal Buggies Tasmania

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Pedal Buggies Tasmania

Pedal Buggies Tasmania is located in Ulverstone on Tasmania's beautiful north west coast. Pedal Buggies are a fantastic family fun activity catering for all ages. A variety of pedal buggies are available, from single, double or family buggies. There's even a buggy where several people can pedal together on the one buggy. During your hire of about 40 minutes, you will travel approximately 5km on shared pedestrian/cycle paths through various parks and alongside the Leven River. A wheelchair trailer is available and can be towed behind certain buggies. Pedal buggies are often suitable for persons unable to ride a normal bicycle. Pedal buggies are a fun way to create some special memories with family and friends exploring Ulverstone's lovely parks as you pedal along the shared pedestrian/cycle paths.

Ulverstone TAS

15 km away

Burnie Pulp Paper Trail — Image credit: Burnie City Council

Landmarks and Buildings

Burnie Pulp Paper Trail

The Pulp Paper Trail makes up part of the Coastal Pathway on the foreshore at South Burnie and tracks opposite the remains of Burnie's historic paper mill. This interpretive walk takes you on a journey through storytelling and imagery as you take a short walk alongside the foreshore on a track of "unrolled paper". The Pulp Paper Trail, designed to honour the men and women who worked at Burnie's pulp and paper mill between 1937 and 2010.

Burnie TAS

16 km away

Guide Falls is the most accessible waterfall in the Burnie hinterland — Image credit: Burnie City Council

Natural Attractions

Guide Falls

A 20 minute drive into the hinterland from Burnie's CBD, Guide Falls is an easy 10 minute walk following the rivulet for 300 metres to the base of the waterfall. Climb the stairway (steep grade) to a top viewing platform for a birds-eye view of the falls. Additional parking is available at the top of the waterfall ensuring easy access for all. Guide Falls flows year round but is most spectacular in winter and spring.

Ridgley TAS

17 km away

Creating artwork — Image credit: business North West

Shopping and Markets

Burnie Artscade

Members of the Renew Burnie program have utilised empty shop spaces to create one-off, creative shop spaces in an inner city arcade. Part of the Renew Australia program, these local artisans and creatives are doing what they do best- creating unique local pieces, inspired by Burnie and beyond. Get up close and personal with the creatives to see them at work. Opening times vary according to the individual shop sites.

Burnie TAS

18 km away

Burnie Regional Museum — Image credit: Burnie City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Federation Street at Burnie Regional Museum

Wander the charming Federation Street and see how ordinary people lived more than 100 years ago. Discover the lifestyles and aspirations of our forebears through rooms that are alive with personal treasures, memorabilia and tools of the trade. It is easy to get lost in the charm and detail of the general store or be relieved that, as far as kitchen and laundry appliances go, things have moved on! And in the Early Burnie exhibition, explore Burnie's beginnings as a privately owned enterprise and follow its progress through the 19th century. Learn about early exploration and the exploits of the Van Diemen's Land Company; life in the region for early settlers; and the events which led to Burnie's first economic boom at the turn of the 20th century. Check the website for up to date exhibition information.

Burnie TAS

18 km away

Burnie Arts Centre — Image credit: Burnie City Council

Entertainment Venues

Burnie Arts Centre

The new Burnie Arts Centre is a newly reimagined fully integrated multi-platform arts centre offering an annual program of performing arts, functions, changing exhibitions and historic displays. Visit Burnie Arts Centre to experience permanent and temporary displays offering an intriguing pathway between the past and present. They invite visitors to engage with the layered histories, unique individuals, incredible industrial endeavours and notable events that have created the Burnie we know today. Through objects and images drawn from the extensive collections, they offer a range of special interpretations featuring First Nations stories of the North West to Burnie's role as port and pulp mill. With a cafe and arts retail to be added in 2026, Burnie Arts Centre will become the must-visit cultural destination on the North Coast of Tasmania.

Burnie TAS

18 km away

Little Penguin's in burrow

Natural Attractions

Visit the Little Penguins

Join Friends of Burnie Penguins volunteers for a free interpretative guided tour of the Little Fairy Penguin colony. See penguins up close for an intimate view into the seasonal life of penguin families, from courtship through to chick rearing and adults molting. The colony is located along the foreshore in Burnie a very short distance from the city centre. You can walk to the Penguin Observation Centre along the boardwalk from your hotel, or park in the area behind the University of Tasmania - Makers Workshop. The viewing area is level with wheelchair access and is child friendly. Knowledgeable volunteer guides talk to you about the penguins, answer questions and help you view and photograph - without flashes! the little penguins as they go about their normal activities. You will find the guides at the Burnie Penguin Observation Centre at dusk as the penguins come ashore, nightly from October 1st until March 31st, regardless of the weather. The Little Penguins might be cosy in their snug feathers, but humans do need to be warmly wrapped as our viewing area is exposed to the weather, fair or foul.

Burnie TAS

19 km away

Archery — Image credit: Camp Clayton

Amusement and Theme Parks

Camp Clayton - Outdoor Adventure Activities

It's time for outdoor adventure at Camp Clayton — where courage is discovered, friendships grow, and unforgettable memories are made! Get ready to take on the Big Four and explore over 20 incredible activities designed to build teamwork, confidence, and resilience for all ages. From high ropes and flying fox challenges to beach games and bush adventures, there's something for everyone. And when the rain rolls in? The fun continues indoors with a full-size stadium, indoor rock wall, and plenty of creative options to keep the energy high. Set on more than 70 acres of coastal bushland overlooking the stunning Bass Strait on Tasmania's North West Coast, Camp Clayton is the ultimate destination for outdoor fun and adventure. Whether you're joining a guided program or making the most of the free-to-use activities, this is the place to explore, connect, and grow.

Ulverstone TAS

19 km away

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