Cradle Mountain has walks for every level, from a 20 minute rainforest loop to a full day on the summit. Here is how the main tracks compare, what the alpine weather asks of you and the kit worth packing.
Waterproofs, boots and warm layers come first in alpine country.
Waterproof jackets, ponchos and overtrousers for wet days.
Hiking boots and shoes, many of them waterproof.
Down and padded jackets, plus gilets, for cold days.
Daypacks through to big packs for multi-day trips.
Socks for long days in boots, including wool pairs.
Beanies, sun hats and neck warmers for changeable days.
Six walks at the park's northern end, from easy loops to a serious summit day.
A gentle 1.1 km circuit near the park entrance, following a cascading creek through mossy forest. A tunnel built to mimic a wombat burrow is a favourite with children.
Good to knowWatch for pademelons and wombats at the forest edges, and colourful fungi in the colder months. The nearby Rainforest Walk is an even shorter boardwalk loop.
The classic introduction to the park, a loop of about 6 km around Dove Lake beneath the peaks of Cradle Mountain. The return leg passes through rainforest of myrtle, sassafras and King Billy pine.
Good to knowParks Tasmania asks walkers to go clockwise. Expect rough sections and many steps, and catch the shuttle bus from the visitor centre to the Dove Lake car park.
A loop of about 5.7 km from the Dove Lake car park to Crater Lake, a classic cirque carved out by glacial ice, passing smaller Lake Lilla and Wombat Pool on the way.
Good to knowParks Tasmania suggests it as a good option when low cloud and rain affect the higher tracks. Parts are steep, so keep a close eye on children.
A steep climb above Crater Lake to one of the park's best viewpoints, looking over Dove Lake and Crater Lake to Cradle Mountain. It is also part of the first day of the Overland Track.
Good to knowA fixed chain helps on the steepest section, which can be very slippery in rain or snow. Start from Ronny Creek or Dove Lake and return via Wombat Pool for a loop.
A long, steep climb of about 12.8 km return with around 600 m of ascent, finishing with a scramble over large boulders. Parks Tasmania allows about 8 hours.
Good to knowIt is rated Grade 5, for very experienced walkers with navigation and first aid skills. Parks Tasmania says it is unsuitable when windy, snowy or rainy weather is forecast.
Australia's best-known alpine walk starts here at Ronny Creek and runs about 65 km one way over around six days to Lake St Clair. It is a serious undertaking for fit, well-prepared walkers.
Good to knowBookings are needed for most of the year and walkers must carry a tent, as huts cannot be booked and may be full. Check the Parks and Wildlife Service for current booking details.
Parks Tasmania recommends a waterproof jacket and over-trousers for walks here. Cold, wet and windy weather is the real danger in this park, and people have died after being caught unprepared.
Snow can fall at any time of year in Tasmania's high country. Pack a fleece or padded jacket, a beanie and gloves for anything beyond the short walks.
Most tracks here have rough surfaces, steep pinches and many steps, and the summit route crosses large boulders. Boots with good grip and ankle support make the day far more comfortable.
The shuttle bus from the visitor centre is the main way to reach Dove Lake and Ronny Creek, and its times change with the seasons. Check them with the visitor centre and give yourself plenty of daylight.
The Dove Lake Circuit gives you the famous views on a manageable loop, and it shows you how the tracks feel before you try anything harder.
Look at the weather and park alerts before you leave, and choose a lower walk like Crater Lake if cloud is sitting on the peaks.
If the wind picks up or rain sets in on an exposed section, head back down. Stay on formed tracks and follow the signs.
| Item | Why | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Rain jacket and overtrousers | Recommended by Parks Tasmania | Pack them even on a sunny morning |
| Hiking boots | Rough, steep and stepped tracks | Waterproof boots suit the boggy ground |
| Warm jacket | Snow is possible all year | A padded jacket packs down small |
| Daypack | Carries layers, food and water | Use a liner to keep spare clothes dry |
| Hiking socks | Comfort on long, wet days | Pack a spare pair for the trip home |
| Beanie or hat | Cold wind or strong sun | Bring both on longer walks |
Yes. A valid parks pass is needed to enter Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, and the shuttle bus to Dove Lake and Ronny Creek needs a ticket as well. Some pass options include the shuttle, and you can buy passes online or at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. Private cars can only drive to Dove Lake outside shuttle hours, and campervans, caravans and trailers are not allowed on Dove Lake Road. Check the Parks and Wildlife Service for current details before you go.
The Rainforest Walk is a short, all-weather boardwalk loop, and the Enchanted Walk is a gentle 20 minute circuit that suits most ages. The Dove Lake Circuit is the best-known introductory walk, but it is graded as moderate with rough sections and many steps. Allow 2 to 3 hours and take it slowly if you are new to bushwalking.
It is one of the hardest day walks in the park. Parks Tasmania grades it 5, its most difficult rating, with about 12.8 km return, around 600 m of climbing and exposed scrambling over large boulders near the top. It suits very experienced walkers with navigation and first aid skills, and should not be attempted when wind, snow or rain is forecast. Marions Lookout is a good alternative for big views with less exposure.
Dress in layers you can add and remove as conditions change, starting with a quick-drying base, then a fleece or padded jacket. Parks Tasmania recommends a waterproof jacket and over-trousers, sturdy boots and warm layers, because weather in alpine areas can change quickly and snow is possible at any time of year. Add a beanie, gloves and sun protection, and carry food and water for the whole walk.
Generally, no. Parks Tasmania says dogs and other pets are not allowed in Tasmania's national parks and reserves, and Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair is a national park. Assistance dogs are permitted, and you may need to show evidence of their training. If you are travelling with a pet, check with the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre about options before you visit.
Pick your walk, check the weather and shuttle times, and pack for every season. We have the kit to keep you warm and dry on the track.
Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.
