Mount Cygnet

Monday 9th October 2017

Mount Cygnet from Cygnet

A friend staying at Cygnet had noticed a couple of rocky outcrops near the summit of Mount Cygnet so we decided to investigate. I had previously walked up to Mount Cygnet in 2013 and had no views whatsoever, so with the expectation of some good vistas over the Huon River and out to the west, we agreed to give it a go. We opted to start at the end of Blue Gum Road off Woodbridge Hill Road, near Cygnet.

The track climbed steadily uphill and was in good condition. It appeared to be an old forestry road and was well constructed with a solid base. Once we reached some flatter land up higher the track became a little wet but was really easy walking. Upon entering the forestry proper, the track deteriorated somewhat, but was still quite easy to negotiate. That was until it finished. From that point there seemed to be a walking track but we soon found out that it was only an animal pad but kept on going, doggedly.

The "track" - the good bit

 We were attempting to follow an old track that was shown on the map and we both had convinced ourselves that we could see it on Google Earth. It was there in places but it mainly consists of cutting grass now. Eventually when the track was supposed to head north it disappeared or we lost it, so we just started heading up through the scrub towards the track along the ridge. There was some discussion about turning back and finding a different way, but we carried on. It was tough going with much cutting grass and lots of downed trees, but as we neared the top it opened up a little, and we reached the road with much delight. From here there was a short walk uphill to one of the rocky outcrops. There had been a burn up here not too long ago and the scrub was open. We were presented with great views from the rocky outcrop but there was a strong, cold wind blowing.

We stopped here for lunch before heading up the track to the summit and then back to the car via another track.
When we had both arrived back home the leech count was eleven so it was an eventful walk.
This was a difficult walk because of the scrub bash but the scenery at the top was worth the effort. I would not recommend going up the way that we went.
Distance:9.2 kms.
Time: 4'31"
Ascent: 560 metres
Click here to download GPX file.
Here is a link to my friend's Blog Post on the walk to give a different perspective.