The Forts

Dogs Unknown

Features Historical Significance · Views · Wildlife

The trail starts from 'The Forts' bus stop on the route 250 bus, which can be caught from many locations across the island. It starts out as a 2-3 meter wide track, but narrows when you reach the loop section. Before reaching the loop section there is 3 or 4 short side tracks that lead to different parts of this historical WWII defence location. From the beginning of the track to the loop is where you should keep an eye out for the local inhabitants, Koalas! The Koalas will be sitting in tree forks or clinging to the sides of trees from eye level all the way to the tops of the tree, but be careful if you are looking while you hike as the ground is uneven and you can trip. This first section of the track is relatively flat and easy to hike.

Once you reach the loop section you can choose to go left or right to see the incredible views of the island and ocean, as well as the gun placements, command centre and other structures that give this hike its name. This section is steeper and narrower, with stairs in some sections, but is well worth it. From one location on top of a building, accessible by ladder, there is an unobstructed 270 degree view of island and ocean.
The hike then returns along the same path back to the bus stop. Allow extra time for exploring the historical structures and looking for Koalas.

The most exciting fauna to see on this walks are the Koala's sleeping in the trees alongside the track. There are very few places where you can see these cute, cuddly animals in the wild, so this is pretty special.