One of Tasmania’s most photographed landmarks is getting a facelift, with new walking tracks and accessibility upgrades to change how visitors experience Stanley’s famous Nut.
A $2.3 million upgrade to The Nut State Reserve is underway, with the first contract awarded to address long-standing safety concerns that have seen walkers sharing the road with vehicles to reach the iconic volcanic plug.
Parks Minister Nick Duigan said the improvements would benefit the 50,000 people who visit the north-west attraction each year.
Stage one will see a dedicated pedestrian path built alongside Browns Road, curving up the hill to The Nut car park.
Contractors will also construct an all-access track from the car park to the sandstone obelisk at the base of the Zig Zag track, complete with handrails and a new viewing area designed for visitors with mobility challenges.
Gabriella Conti from West by North West Tourism welcomed the project.
“Stanley remains a major tourism highlight on the north-west coast, offering the world’s cleanest air and breathtaking views from the summit of the Nut,” she said.
“These planned upgrades will enhance the reserve with improved amenities, including the Godfreys Beach track.”
Clint Walker from the Circular Head Tourism Association said the changes would build on the area’s growing tourism appeal.
“From a tourism perspective, these improvements will not only enrich the visitor experience but complement other local attractions,” he said.
Future plans for the Nut include new walking tracks connecting to Stanley’s wharf precinct and a cantilevered viewing platform, all expected to be completed by 2028.
