It is no secret that Cradle Mountain is an adventure lover’s dream. Complete with endless nature day hikes, multi-day treks, multi-day treks and unique walking experiences. And with so many great hikes to choose from, your hardest decision will be choosing which one is for you. So with that, here are best hikes in Cradle Mountain- a complete guide to help you plan your visit!
Photo credit: Off The Path, Tourism Tasmania
Marion's Lookout
Offers one of the best views in all of Cradle Mountain National Park with spectacular views of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake. This walk can depart from several locations but the closest is via Dove Lake. A popular choice for photographers as it boasts spectacular views of the Cradle Mountain summit looming over Dove Lake. Begin with an easy flat walk skirting Dove Lake before an ascent to the lookout. There are chains for the steeper sections, taking up to 3 hours return, though it can be done as part of a bigger loop also. This is an ultimate location to see the changing leaves of the fagus trees in Autumn, a sight not to be missed! Also, sunrise is with the early wake up call for this one, when the craggy peaks of the mountain colour a deep red!
Track length: 3 hours, medium to hard
Starting point: Dove Lake Carpark or Ronny Creek Carpark
Dove Lake Circuit
If you prefer your walks short and sweet, this is a nice scenic change that does not involve scrambling mountain tops. Choose to go clockwise or anti-clockwise, this walk journeys through stunning rainforests, pristine beaches with quartzite sand and to the famous boat shed. On a clear day it offers clear views of the twin peaks and if youre lucky, you’ll get a perfect reflection to capture in the lakes mirrored surface. Shorty enough ideal for the day trippers or a lazy afternoon stroll. A popular favourite by many, avoid the day crowds and best time to go is sunrise and sunset to making it a photographer's dream. It’s easy access at any hour.
Track length: 3 hours, 6km, easy
Starting point: Dove Lake Carpark
Hansons Peak
For awe-inspiring views of craggy Cradle Mountain peaks, look no further than the Hansons Peak track. A perfect pick to admire the landscape that was carved out by glaciers millions of years ago. With 250 meters elevation gain it comes to no surprise that steep sections are involved with chain fitted to assist. Make sure you take the option a little further past Hansons Peak to uncover other natural wonders like Twisted Lakes and a loop walk is also possible returning via Face Track. Otherwise, make the same trip but in reverse.
Track length: 3 hours, 10km, medium
Starting point: Dove Lake Carpark
Enchanted Walk
Just as the name suggests, this walk leads you into a magical section of mossy forest. Short and sweet yet an impactful track from buttongrass plains to tea-tree thickets eucalypt woodlands. You’d want to take a very relaxed and slow pace to grasp the magic of its scenery. At dawn and dusk, those fortunate souls may chance upon the elusive platypus as it frolics in the pools or glimpse a wombat as it feeds. Ideal for wildlife lovers and a kid-friendly track. There are also little tunnels designed to mimic a wombat's burrow, great for kids with information on wildlife and plant life.
Track length: 20 minutes, 1.2km, easy
Starting point: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge
The Waterfalls Walk (Pencil Pine Falls and Knyvet Falls)
If enjoying cascading waterfalls and tranquil rivers than this walk is ideal. Follow the Dove Canyon Track to the Pencil Pine Falls taking only 5 minutes. Here, beckons for a perfect swimming spot providing one of the more invigorating swims of a lifetime! Journey through majestic mossy forests and ancient ferns along shaded boardwalks where every step is worth it. Continue on, you’ll reach the top of the stunning Knyvet Falls. Return via the same route. This track is most spectacular after periods of rain.
Track length: 40 minutes, 1.5km easy
Starting point: Ranger Station Interpretation Centre
Photo credit: Tayla Gentle, Tourism Tasmania
Overland Track
This is by far the most famous multi-day trek in Tasmania and it comes as no surprise! This 5-6 days hike stretches 65km from the iconic Cradle Mountain to Australia’s deepest lake, Lake St Clair. It is an unforgettable and life-changing journey through Tasmania’s alpine heart. Even if hiking boots and backpacks aren’t your thing, you will find it hard to resist the lure of well-formed tracks that lead you to surprising discoveries. Whichever way you look at it, the magic of Cradle Mountain is bound to captivate.
There are two ways you can experience this 6-day hike through the Tasmanian Wilderness. The first of these is to go on your own accord and stay at public huts or pitch a tent (or a combination of both). This option is great for the adventurers who are looking to walk to the beat of their own drum, take their time on the track, or those travelling on a budget. We have you covered with our 6 days Cradle Mountain Huts Overland Track or the 4 days Cradle Mountain Huts Overland Track for an express route.
The second option is to book a guided private tour. This option is better if you’re looking for a more comfortable experience – complete with three-course meals in the evenings and a comfy mattress to sleep on. These are luxuries for anyone embarking on a 6-day trek in the wilderness, but if you have a choice between the two it is certainly a more comfortable way to experience this semi-challenging hike.
Track length: 65km, 6 days
Starting point: Ronny’s Creek
Best time to walk track: The Overland Track offers the best experience between October to May avoiding extreme winters of snow and storms
Fees: To enter the national park you'll need a park pass which can be purchased at the Visitor Centre or in advance online. For more in depth-information visit Tasmania Parks and Wildlife.
