23 km south of Penguin via Fabers Road and Riana

It comes as a surprise to many that the first discovery of silver in Tasmania was in Penguin (see below), followed by discoveries of copper and manganese. However, settlement occurred a decade after the 1850s gold rush in Victoria that created a demand for palings provided by splitters cutting in the Penguin district. There are, however, a few left overs from bygone mining days in the Dial Range, 6 Kilometres south of the town, which provides the scenic backdrop for Penguin.


Ferndene Reserve

This chain of mountains and valleys was given its name because the silhouette of one of its summits, the Gnomon, resembles an ancient sundial. Dial Range has numerous trails for bushwalking, mountain biking and horse riding. Two of the best places to visit are Ferndene and Mt Montgomery State Reserves. Ferndene Gorge State Reserve comprises 35.16 hectares (86.9 acres) and is managed by the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service. It was established on 2 August 1939 and is described by the Parks and Wildlife Service as a "scenic fern glade". There is a beautiful walk through the fern glade along a clear stream, surrounded by huge tree ferns reminiscent of Gondwana.


Brownling's Tunnel

The picnic area has plenty of parking, a bbq, outside picnic tables and under-cover picnic tables and a well maintained toilet block. It’s a great spot for a picnic and also is the starting point for an easy 30 minute walk under the manferns along the banks of Mcbrides Creek. Just off to the left of the picnic area and over a little bridge is the walk to Thorsby’s Tunnel, an old silver mine shaft. You will also pass Brownings Tunnel along the way. Short walks include Ferndene (30 mins return), Tall Trees (45 mins), Mount Montgomery (2 hrs), Leven River (40-60 mins) and Mount Gnomon (2 hrs). For more information, purchase a Dial Range Recreation and Management Map from a local visitor information centre, or write to the North West Walking Club, PO Box 107, Ulverstone.

Dial Range, Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania

Best Trails in Dial Range Regional Reserve

Penguin Cradle Trail

If you'd prefer a cross country hike, the Penguin Cradle Trail would suit you better. For experienced bushwalkers only, this 80km trail heads inland from the coast to Cradle Mountain. Some sections make for a pleasant stroll, while others provide a definite bushwalking challenge. The complete walk takes six days, but access roads mean that sections can be done as day or overnight trips. Please Note: The trail is not currently maintained and is not accessible between Gunns Plains and the Leven Canyon.

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