Triple Top
Mount Roland Regional Reserve
Difficulty
Level 3: Performing Wilder
DISTANCE
→ 19 km
ASCENT / DESCENT
↑1,163m ↓1,585m
ROUTE STYLE
POINT TO POINT
“Triple Top” is a point-to-point route best known as a gruelling annual trail run/walk event that was inaugurated in 1991 - the “Triple Top Mountain Run”.It is a West to East traverse of the Fossey Mountains, with ascents of Mount Claude, Van Dyke and Roland, concluding with a thousand metre descent (plunge!) to the valley at Claude Road.
The route requires logistical support with two cars or a willing non-participating drop-off/pick-up driver.This is a physically demanding trail run that follows extremely technical exposed walking trails. Weather conditions can be extreme and can vary from very hot and dry to cold, sleet and rain. Runners and walkers must be prepared physically and with all appropriate safety items. Take care with navigation.
“Triple Top” is a point-to-point route best known as a gruelling annual trail run/walk event that was inaugurated in 1991 - the “Triple Top Mountain Run”.
It is a West to East traverse of the Fossey Mountains, with ascents of Mount Claude, Van Dyke and Roland, concluding with a thousand metre descent (plunge!) to the valley at Claude Road.
The route requires logistical support with two cars or a willing non-participating drop-off/pick-up driver.
This is a physically demanding trail run that follows extremely technical exposed walking trails. Weather conditions can be extreme and can vary from very hot and dry to cold, sleet and rain. Runners and walkers must be prepared physically and with all appropriate safety items. Take care with navigation.
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Take the ferry from Triabunna to Maria Island. There is free parking at the Triabunna wharf. You can choose to go for the day or you can camp overnight on Maria Island. Overnight accommodation is camping or staying in the very basic penitentiary, both of which must be booked via Parks Tasmania. We also recommend pre-booking you ferry departure and return journeys.
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The run starts at the “Round Mountain Lookout”, on Olivers Rd approx. 13km from “Claude Road Memorial Hall”.
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Follow the fire trail uphill under the power line, past the telco tower and up to the high point nearby Mt Claude.
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Enjoy the ridge line before descending to the first of two deep saddles. Note: Safety exit track down to Gowrie Park.
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The climb to the Van Dyke plateau is very steep but effective! It transitions to a pleasant undulating trail and a modest drop to the second saddle. Note: There is second safety exit track down to Gowrie Park nearby this saddle.
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The ascent to Mount Roland whilst not so steep is never ending. When approaching the high point, look out for an old sign. Take this detour to the Mount Roland summit (1,233m ASL) to bag an “Abel”.
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Resume the main track East. Expect rock/boulder scrambling and some interesting up/down climbs.
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The track leads to the head of a very steep scree gully. As you descend take care not to start a rock avalanche.
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Beyond the scree slope expect a 200m drop with steep loose dirt. Boulders and trees provide foot and hand support.
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Magically you will pop out to a pleasant traversing trail that takes you out of the gully and a further descent of 500m.
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Exit onto Kings Road, turning left at Claude Road to finish with a slight but noticeable uphill to the Hall.
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Return to Darlington via the grassy coastal pathway past the airstrip, barn, cemetry and ruins of the Grand Hotel. Ensure that when you get back to Darlington you refill your water supplies, nutrition, suncreen and supplies for part two of this route, Mt Maria.
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Depart for Mt Maria on the main fire trail heading south down the island but veer left towards the Oast House. This is a scenic, quiet route that is less travelled and will reunite you with the track to Mt Maria.
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After visiting the ruins of the Oast House continue along its pathway until it T-intersections with the track to Mt Maria. Turn left here and follow the signs to Mt Maria's summit. Note, the track gets very rocky on its upper sections. This section of the track is best avoided in wet weather.
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Return from Mt Maria via the same route. However, procede all the way out to the coastline. From here take the track a short distance further to Painted Cliffs where you can relax in their slendour of colour and patterns.
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After visiting the Painted Cliffs meander back along Hopground's Beach before taking the main fire trail back up and over the hill to Darlington. Well done, you have completed our 29.7km Double Trouble route! It is now time for a swim and a well-earned rest!
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Toilets - Closest at Sheffield or Deloraine
Water - No reliable source on the route
Parking - Yes, at the lookout start location and the finish at Claude Hall
Services - Sheffield, Deloraine and Mole Creek, Also, plentiful accommodation at nearby farms stays and B&Bs
Phone coverage - Telstra, Vodafone & Optus Reception. Reception might be spotty in sections.Duration 4-8 hrs (Start early!)
Terrain The terrain varies greatly – technical, rocky, steep and depending on the weather can be very muddy. There are sections of duck board and areas where you need to carefully negotiate scree and boulders.
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