SPHINX ROCK
Sphinx Rock was also known as White Rock, and as Ape Rock. It is a large sandstone outcrop with a magnificent view. It’s quite possible that there was a strong Aboriginal connection to this rock.
A little-known fact is that the turn-of-the-century rustic hut owners used to meet up regularly at Sphinx Rock for a hut owners’ dance. What fun!
An early track from the Springs to the Rock was used for firewood gathering for the Springs Hotel. This track was later subsumed into the Lenah Valley Track.
“Amongst other places on Mount Wellington to which I should like to take a friend would be the towering mass of rock going by the name of “The Sphinx,” which can be reached easily in half an hour from the hotel. But I am afraid to occupy more space than in remarking on the splendid spars growing in the vicinity, and the shady and cool spot there is at the fernery, which brings you close to the bend of the carriage drive, whereon you can either drive or walk home to the city. ”
“Sphinx Rock—that dead, titanic face of cliff marking old and dread convulsion—that cliff which offered, doubtless, in grim days, to many an outlaw a survey of distant Hobart Town, and approach of military and police in pursuit. ”