The City of Hobart is warning of possible traffic delays on kunanyi/Mt Wellington over Christmas, with forecast snow expected to draw large crowds.
The council is urging visitors to take the bus or walk to the summit to avoid congestion on Pinnacle Road.
“It looks like we could have a white Christmas on the mountain this year,” the council said.
“And while the forecast snow could be patchy, it’s a timely reminder Christmas and New Year are the busiest times for traffic on Kunanyi/Mt Wellington.”
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting showers and possible small hail for Christmas Day, with temperatures of 8-15 degrees in Hobart.
The council said it would “monitor conditions on Pinnacle Road over the festive season”.
To beat the queues, the council recommends booking a seat on the mountain explorer bus or parking at Fern Tree and walking to the top.
Those who do choose to drive are being asked to avoid the peak period between 11am and 3pm.
“Our team has also placed digital signs near our bush depot just above South Hobart and at The Springs car park to give visitors a heads up when there is heavy traffic that may cause delays,” the council said.
Visitors are also being reminded that the mountain is an alpine environment, where conditions can turn dangerous quickly.
“Kunanyi/Mt Wellington might seem close enough to be a suburb of Hobart, but it’s not,” the council said.
“If not well prepared, the mountain weather can be deadly.”
Temperatures at the summit can be up to six degrees colder than at The Springs, with low cloud reducing visibility to just a few metres.
The council is advising those heading up to bring warm layers, waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear, a hat, gloves and a fully charged phone.
Drivers are also reminded to park only in designated areas.
“… A few illegally parked vehicles can create traffic jams for everyone else,” the council said.
