Best of Tasmania
Cradle Mountain: Walking, Wildlife and the Tasmanian Wilderness
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park in Tasmania's central highlands is one of Australia's most iconic wilderness destinations and a World Heritage Area. The jagged dolerite peak of Cradle Mountain rises above Dove Lake, accessible via a short shuttle bus from the visitor centre. The Dove Lake Circuit, a 6-kilometre walk around the lake, takes about two to three hours and offers some of the most photographed scenery in Australia. The multi-day Overland Track (six days, 65 kilometres) connects Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair and is one of Australia's great bushwalks, requiring a permit and pre-booking in peak season. Wombats are frequently seen near the visitor centre and on the Enchanted Walk boardwalk. Entry to the national park requires a Tasmania Parks Pass.
-
1
Dove Lake Circuit
A 6km walk encircling the iconic Dove Lake at the foot of Cradle Mountain, with views of the mountain's distinctive craggy silhouette reflected in the lake.
-
2
Cradle Mountain Summit (6hr return)
A challenging 6-hour return climb to the summit of Cradle Mountain, one of Tasmania's most rewarding alpine walks, with views across the World Heritage wilderness.
-
3
Overland Track, Start Point
The Overland Track's 65km route begins at Cradle Valley and finishes at Cynthia Bay on Lake St Clair, book months in advance for the summer season (Oct-May).
-
4
Wombat Loop and Enchanted Walk
Short, accessible walks through the Cradle Mountain forest at the base of the mountain, with wombat sightings common at dusk on the Enchanted Walk boardwalk.
-
5
Cradle Mountain Lodge
An iconic wilderness lodge at the entrance to the national park, with individual timber cabins, a spa and year-round access to guided walks.
More Best of Tasmania
- Weekend Getaways in Tasmania: Freycinet, the Overland Track and Cradle Mountain
- Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay: Walking the Hazards
- Tasmania Wildlife Encounters: Wombats, Devils and World-Class Nature
- Bay of Fires: Tasmania's Iconic Orange-Lichen Coast
- Port Arthur Historic Site: Tasmania's World Heritage Convict Precinct
- Where to Stay in Tasmania: Accommodation Guide for Visitors