The Dial Range consists of multiple peaks. The prominent peak of Mount Gnomon provides the northern section of the range with a unique profile. Explore the rugged landscape that contains various geological formations. See the tunnels that are a result of the prospecting and mining attempts made in this area in the late 19th to early 20th century.
Rich in minerals and geological history, the Dial Range and nearby reserves are dotted with various walking tracks. This area contains a wide range of geological rock types and structures including volcanic, dolerite, conglomerate and sandstone layers.
Associated with these rock types are a range of soils and a magnificent diversity of vegetation. Stringybark and black peppermint forests line the drier slopes, while the tall swamp gums and blackwood trees are found on damper ground. Look for the wet sclerophyll forest within the gullies. In springtime you may catch the understorey and heath plants in flower.
You'll pass through all manner of vegetation types on the walking tracks which wind around hillsides, through gullies and take you to the top of these pretty coastal mountains.
Please be aware that there are a number of multi-use tracks, on some sections of these walks you may encounter mountain bikes.
Walks
Mount Gnomon Lookout
Walk up a short, but steep track to the Mount Gnomon Lookout to experience rewarding views of the southern Dial Range, and the countryside from east of Penguin to Devonport and beyond to Mount Roland.
Thorsbys Tunnel
Within the Ferndene State Reserve is a short walk to Brownings and Thorsbys Tunnels. You can see evidence of the mining heritage of the north-west coast while meandering along a creek amongst towering tree ferns.
Mount Dial
Choose from multiple routes to explore the unique and varied geology of the peak that shares the same name as the mountain range.
Mount Montgomery
Magnificent views await you from the summit of Mount Montgomery. You'll look over the ocean and the coastal farms and towns of Penguin and Ulverstone and beyond.
Mount Duncan Track
Explore the understorey as you wander amongst the surrounding tall eucalyptus trees. This gradual walk takes you up Mount Duncan, the highest peak in the Dial Range.