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What To Do In Cradle Mountain In Tasmania!

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Are you looking for the best things to do in Cradle Mountain?

In this post, you will find everything you need to know. This is a complete guide to what to do in Cradle Mountain.

Cradle Mountain took my breath away!

Despite the pretty chilly weather and the downpours of heavy rain, we could not resist but to simply immerse ourselves into this incredible and unique alpine landscape with its majestic rugged peaks.

I had truly never seen vegetation and landscape like this before, and it kept amazing me with its beauty around every bend!

There are plenty of options of what to do at Cradle Mountain, however, it was the hiking tracks and the meeting the wildlife that stole our hearts!

Cradle Mountain Walks Video

Check out our Cradle Mountain Hike video.

This is what really happens around the Dove Lake. Footage of us doing the Cradle Mountain Walk (one of the best things to do in Cradle Mountain), including amazing sights, extraordinary vegetation, and the ever-changing Tasmanian weather.

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Things to do in Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair happens to be one of the most visited national parks in Tasmania and there is no surprise as to why this Wilderness World Heritage Area can be seen on the front of magazines, books, postcards and tourism pamphlets about Tasmania.

You will find plenty of things to do at Cradle Mountain, from over 20 different self-guided walks; to beautiful and unique vegetation and you will get to see an abundance of Australian wildlife.

It is no wonder that Cradle Mt. happens to be one of the most popular places of what to do in Tasmania.

Cradle Mountain Self Guided Walks:

On our trip, we found ourselves a bit unprepared for the inconsistent Cradle Mt weather you find here in this alpine region, and as a result, whilst we had plans of completing a multitude of tracks, we ended up sticking to two of the most popular trails.

Finishing our day by drying off in front of our fireplace at our little hut where we were staying appealed to us a bit more than a full day of walking in our wet clothes.

We decided to tackle the two of the best Cradle Mountain walks: Dove Lake Circuit and the shorter but beautiful Enchanted Walk, both of which are listed as one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks.

And here is a bit about our experience:

Dove Lake Circuit Walk

Dove Lake Circuit Walk is by far the most popular Cradle Mountain walk and our top choice of the best Cradle Mountain walks for sure!

Where it is and Duration:

The Dove Lake Circuit (around 6km) is a fairly easy 2-3 hour circuit that starts from the Dove Lake car park. Here at this car park, you will also find some toilets, together with a walker log book where you should record your trip intentions.

Overview and Suitability: 

The walk itself is for the major part fairly easy and flat. The walk will take you through varied vegetation from subalpine plant communities to moss covered temperate rainforests.

There are some pretty incredible viewpoints along the walk and a large section of the walk has been board-walked and covered with a metal mesh for anti-slip purposes.

The Dove Lake circuit walk is therefore suitable for all fitness levels and would be perfect for those wishing to bring their kids along as well. We started the walk from the left pathway and made our way clockwise around Dove Lake.

Our Experience:

When we arrived at the car park, we had an absolute downpour of heavy rain.

Pair that with a really strong blustering wind and you will find yourself in an environment that begs you to stay in your warm car.

People were braving the weather and we watched them from the safety of our rental car; watching as their raincoats were blown about crazily, and while people were holding on to various bits and pieces to keep it from blowing away into nature.

Most of these people had a super quick peek at Dove Lake itself, which is fairly close to the car park and then made a run back towards their car. Understandably we were having second thoughts of our own regarding this walk.

We had purchased some paper thin plastic ponchos from the Discovery Hut (forgot our own quality ones at home!), but we could see that they would provide us with little to no protection with the combination of the rain and wind outside.

Being brave, we decided to give the Dove Lake circuit walk a go. We could always turn back when we had had enough. So off we went, tackling a walk that within a few minutes had us shivering in our wet cold clothes.

Point to note, jeans like to hold onto water really well!  Don’t wear jeans!! But regardless we kept walking and within about 15 min, the weather started clearing up, the wind settled down a notch and we started to enjoy ourselves.

You see that is the thing about alpine regions. The weather in this Tasmanian wilderness is incredibly unpredictable, it changes rapidly and frequently.

So be prepared for a 2-3 hour hike here, to contain an all-sorts box full of different weather patterns and make sure to go walking regardless!

I guess we should be thankful for our dodgy weather as we had the hike around the lake to ourselves, only spotting a few other brave hikers along the way.

I’ve read online that during peak season this lake can receive up to 9,000 visits per day! Yikes!

Now I know our hike would have had a different feel if we had to ‘compete’ with that many other people! I think the misty covered peaks of Cradle Mountain created its own mystique and dramatic elegance.

The silence and isolated walkways allowed you to breathe out years of pent-up stress and anxieties. I truly fell in love with this region and plan on one day going back to complete the 6 day Overlander Track!

I simply want more and more!

We love nature and we spent longer on this track than most as we had to keep stopping to observe some of the miracles of the natural world around us.

I loved the moss-covered trees and railings so much that Andrzej promised to make me one at home.

Now trust me when I say that attempting that in Queensland climate might be an impossible task and I guess that is why 2 months later I am still waiting for my moss covered tree.

Regardless we stopped to take more photos than we could ever possibly share with you and recorded some video trying to capture the magic we found here.

From every angle, the scenery here will truly astonish you! Every way a photo opportunity. From the mountains, we could spot waterfalls cascading from the distant heights, from the ‘beach’ areas surrounding the lake you can simply enjoy some peace and serenity.

Every moment, one to scribe on your mind and on your soul.

There are also plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic. We had our lunch packed and ready to go. Unfortunately, all the picnic tables were soaking wet from the rain, so we simply enjoyed a stand-up meal whilst observing our location!

The incredibly popular Boat Shed on the north-western shore is another great spot to plonk yourself down for a breather and to enjoy the views from one of the most photographed areas at Cradle Mountain.

Despite the fact that we had to keep layering up and down and popping on raincoats during our walk; with the weather constantly changing; we had an incredibly delightful hike.

One which I will remember and treasure forever after.

And one I hope you will be able to enjoy one day soon as well!

The Enchanted Walk

The enchanted walk was easiest of the walks and our top choice of the best Cradle Mountain short walks options. We loved it and I know that you will love it too!

The walk starts from Cradle Mountain Lodge and will only take you around 15-20 minutes to complete. There is a car park at Cradle Mountain Lodge and signs around the main building will point you in the right direction for this walk.

As this area is home to a large variety of Tasmanian wildlife, you may want to have your camera handy here and spend a bit more time here too.

The second walk we chose for the day was the delightfully sweet and short Enchanted Walk (only 1km). This walk is really easy and perfect for families with young children.

This trail bends and weaves along the Pencil Pine River and takes you through a large variety of vegetation typical of the area; from Buttongrass plains to Teatree thickets, Eucalypt woodlands and mossy myrtle forests.

My favorite memory from this walk was the wildlife we got to see, as they were having their late afternoon feeding session! Remember, that the best time to see the animals here is at dawn or dusk, so make sure to pop outside around those times to observe a delightful scene of wildlife moving about!

This walk, although short, it will be one of the most memorable ones too.

This is also one of the easiest Cradle Mountain self-guided walks and definitely, one of the best Cradle Mountain walks too!

Tip:   There are also some nocturnal tours you can take, perfect for the kids to try and spot them at night time.

Other Cradle Mountain walks:

As our weather was really inconsistent, we only completed the Enchanted and Dove Lake Circuit walks (two of the best Cradle Mountain walks).

Below you can find a list of the other walks in Cradle Mountain, together with approx timeframes to help you with your planning! Check out the best Cradle Mountain hikes, the best Cradle Mountain trails and the best walks Cradle Mountain has to offer:

• Enchanted Walk (from Cradle Mountain Lodge) – Allow approx 20 min
• King Billy Walk (from Cradle Mountain Lodge) – Allow approx 30 min
• Knyvet Falls (opposite Cradle Mountain Lodge) – Allow Approx 45 min
• Dove Canyon Circuit (via Knyvet Falls) – (opposite Cradle Mountain Lodge) – Allow Approx 2-3 hours
• Pencil Pine Falls and Rainforest Walk – (from Interpretation Centre) – Allow approx 10 min.
• Cradle Valley Boardwalk – (from Interpretation Centre) – Allow approx 2 hours one way to Ronny Creek or 3 hours one way to Dove Lake
• Weindorfers Forest Walk – (from Waldheim Chalet) – Allow approx 20 min
• Ronny Creek to Dove Lake (via Lake Lilla) – (from Ronny Creek Carpark) – Allow approx 1 hour one way
• Ronny Creek to Dove Lake (via Crater Lake, Wombat Pool, and Lake Lilla) – (from Ronny Creek Carpark) – Allow approx 1.5-2 hours one way
• Dove Lake Circuit – (from Dove Lake Carpark) – Allow approx 2-3 hours
• Marions Lookout (via Crater Lake) – (From Ronny Carpark or Dover Lake Carpark) – Allow approx 3 hours Cradle Mountain hike

Tip: This is also the starting point for the world-famous Tasmanian walking track: the Overlander Track. This track will take 6 days to complete and will take you across some incredibly beautiful and unique Tasmania wilderness terrain!

Before you go to Cradle Mountain

Before you find the best things to do in Cradle Mountain and things to do around Cradle Mountain, there are a number of things that you should consider. Here are some of the helpful hints and tips that will make your adventure easier.

Purchase a Tasmania National Park Pass:

When you venture out on your Cradle Mountain hike, you will be required to pay a National Park entry fee for all National Parks in Tasmania. The National Park passes can be purchased at the Visitor Centre.

If you plan on only visiting the Cradle Mountain Lake St.Clair National Park, entry tickets are:

• $16.50 adult (18+)
• $8.25 child (5-17, under 5 no charge)
• $41.25 family (2 adults, 3 children)

However, if you are planning on visiting more Tasmanian National Parks, such as Freycinet where Wineglass Bay is located, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a Holiday Pass.

Please note: This Pass allows entry into all the parks within Tasmania (Within a 2-month period). This one costs $60 (Per Vehicle, max 8 people) or $30 Per Person.

You can find more information on National Park Passes here .

How to get to Cradle Mountain walks:

There are three ways to get to the Cradle Mountain Walks. The easiest, of course, is the choice of the private car or a shuttle bus. Alternatively, for those adventure seekers, you can tackle the whole area on foot.

By Private Car:  

If you have a car, you might choose to use the car and park at the Dove Lake car park. Be aware though that this car park fills up pretty quickly! A boom gate at the entrance to the park will tell you whether there is parking inside (by an indication of green or red light).

If the light is red, you might want to stick around waiting for someone to exit, or alternatively head back up the road and park at the Visitor Centre and take the free shuttle bus into the park.

By Shuttle Bus:

The easiest way to move about the park is by free Cradle Mountain shuttle bus. Once you have purchased your Park Pass, you simply have to show this to the bus driver at the Visitor Centre in order to be shuttled back and forth between the locations you wish to visit.

The shuttle runs on a regular schedule. It stops at the following Park points:  Visitors Centre, Interpretation Centre, Snake Hill, Ronny Creek and Dove Lake.

If you are staying in the area, you might choose to start hiking from the Interpretation Centre. There is a beautiful boardwalk that meanders alongside the Dove River which takes you all the way to Dove Lake.

Be aware though that the walk will take you approx 3 hours, so make sure to include the time in your daily planning!

Where to Stay at Cradle Mountain:

There are a number of great accommodation options in Cradle Mountains to choose from. However, if you would like to spend your stay here in a more of a mountain cottage environment, then we would strongly recommend the place that we stayed at, the Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages.

Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages  

(This is where we stayed)

We absolutely totally loved our little wood cabin at Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages. We chose to stay in one of the cheaper cottages, but loved our adorable Buttongrass hut! The inside of the hut is equipped with a massive stash of wood for your fireplace, the cozy bed has electric blankets to keep you warm.

It has a kitchen and a lovely bathroom. What more could you want! Waking up to the sound of nature while the fire is still burning away – perfect! We highly recommend you stay here! There are huts to suit most budget levels. You can check them out and book here .

Other Cradle Mountain accommodation options:

• Discovery Holiday Parks – Cradle Mountain
• Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village
• Cradle Mountain Hotel

Where to Eat (or NOT to eat!):

We were pretty disappointed by the dining-out options available in the area! Either the food was too expensive for us or just totally not worth the money.

We did try the buffet at Cradle Mountain Hotel but were highly dissatisfied with the service and taste in the food. We actually ran into other travelers at Wineglass Bay who also complained about the buffet, so maybe stay away from that one!

We truly suggest stopping in at a supermarket on your drive down and stocking up on your own food supplies! Good decent supermarkets can be found in Launceston, Deloraine or Sheffield. You can also find basic grocery supplies at the Discovery Hut.

If you have the money to splurge out on your dinner, ratings on Tripadvisor recommend good dinner options at Highland Restaurant, Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge Tavern Bar & Bistro, and Hellyers Restaurant.

Cradle Mountain Walking Tours:

Although, it is fun to check out the Cradle Mountain on a self-guided tour, sometimes it is easier to plan an organized trip. This way you will be able to simply enjoy the sights and best things to do in Cradle Mountains. No planning and no worries here.

Enjoy a Guided 3 Day Guided Walk of Cradle Mountain & Walls of Jerusalem Walk

Carrying just a day pack, enjoy three days of guided walking in beautiful Cradle Mountain, marveling at 360-degree panoramic views of Tasmania’s highest mountains.

Finish your walking experience with a journey into the remote Walls of Jerusalem National Park only accessible by foot, where you’ll see stunning views of King David’s Peak, Solomon’s Jewels and Herod’s Gate. 2 Nights at Cradle Mountain Lodge is included.

Find more information on this walking tour on the Life’s an Adventure site here .

What to Pack for the Cradle Mountain walk?

It is crucial to pack the right gear for your hikes at Cradle Mountain! As this is an alpine region weather can change very rapidly and frequently. In our few hours of walking, we experienced ridiculous winds, and heavy rain, and 10 min later we were hot as the wind disappeared and the sun came out!

It was all over the shop for the whole duration of the walk. So please check the weather in the morning and take a backpack with essentials to cover all weather conditions.

Cradle Mountain Hiking Shoes:

Whatever your favorite shoe for hiking, ensure it is packed in your suitcase! It is very important here, that your shoes have a good grip and prevent you from slipping. Obviously, if you are doing the Overland Track walk you will need proper hiking boots, so make sure to invest in some if you need them!

Tasmanian Weather Proof Backpack:

Cradle Mountain weather can change at a moment’s notice, so make sure that you have a good weatherproof backpack with you.

If you do not have one, pop your camera into a zip-lock bag before you chuck it in a normal backpack.

Poncho or Raincoat:

Invest in a good-quality poncho to give you adequate weather protection! In case you forget, you can pick up one of the simple, plastic ponchos at the local shop.

Warm Windproof Clothes:

When you are hiking around the Cradle Mountains, make sure to have adequate clothing.

The wind can be a bit unforgiving here, so grab yourself a good beanie, and a scarf and stay warm.

If you are doing a major hike, you might consider getting a good windproof jacket and weatherproof pants as well.

Essential Basics:

Of course don’t forget all those basic essentials that you normally take along on hikes, such as:

• Water bottles
• Your camera
• and maybe take the time to download the FREE 60 Great Short Walks app to your phone.

________________________________

Please Pin our pin of Th ings to do in Cradle Mountain!

Further Reading

Find out more about Tasmania on our Australia Travel Blog

Check out the  best places to visit on the East Coast of Tasmania .

Find out the best places where to stay on your trip around Tasmania .

Jolene Ejmont

6 thoughts on “what to do in cradle mountain in tasmania”.

Hiking around Cradle Mountain was one of my favorite things, when exploring Tassie. Great Article!

Same here! It just had so many ‘wow’ moments for us! Thanks for your comment.

I’m heading to Tasmania next week and plan to stop by Cradle Mountain. I’m glad I discovered your post because it is so detailed and informative, really helped a ton! Thank you for this 🙂

Yes, do not miss Cradle Mountain – absolutely loved every minute there. Have a fun time!!

Great article thanks. Will help us work out our plans for our visit in a couple days time. Good tips for the weatger and national parks pass….

Enjoy, truly such a spectacular place to see 🙂

Comments are closed.

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Cradle Mountain Hike: Two Day Itinerary

Cradle Mountain Lake St. Clair National Park is one of Tasmania’s jewels and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 160,000 hectares, this park is full of glaciers, rainforests, lakes, and wildlife. Cradle Mountain is a must-see in Tasmania. In this article, we have drawn up a route for a walking trip, to ensure that in 2 days you will see the mountain  from all angles. Start your trip at the National Park Office at the foot of the mountain to begin a colorful, high altitude and, above all, emotional journey .

Table of Contents

Exploring Cradle Mountain National Park – Day 1

Arrival in the park.

Although the island of Tasmania is small, part of the day is eaten up by the journey to reach the office. This can be an opportunity to make a few stops before arriving at the park, and take advantage of the magnificent roads in the north and south. To the north you can take the coastal road which, although lengthening the journey time, is definitely worth the detour. To the south, a stop in the mining town of Queenstown and the Iron Blow lookout will transport you to another era. Little by little it is already noon. But don’t worry, there is still a full afternoon at Cradle Mountain.

This is an opportunity to take stock of information and desires at the national park office but also to buy the (very) expensive pass. Count $20 per adult per day. We strongly advise you to take the 8-week car pass at $80 which will allow you to visit any other park on the island.

Short hiking trails

Vehicles are prohibited in the park. The only way to get to the trails is by taking the shuttle. It departs every 10 minutes from the centre and takes you quickly to various stations. The only problem with this shuttle is that the last one departs earlier than 7pm, even though the park only closes then. Decide on some of the trails that start at the Interpretive Centre station. Contrary to what one might think of a 30-minute walk, they are all worth it!

Start with the Enchanted Walk, one of the island’s 60 best hiking trails. At the end you will hike the King Billy Trail , which leads you into a dense forest that could well serve as a shooting location for the movie Lord of the Rings. Then you go on to the Pencil Pine Falls , a small waterfall. If you’re lucky, you’ll see a wombat strolling across the street. The walk is pleasant and relaxing. This afternoon’s program gives you just a little taste to warm up your legs before the big hike on the following day.

Hike to the Cradle Mountain Summit – Day 2

On the national park website, it is indicated that the walk takes 8 hours (Return) and is Level 5 (confirmed walker, steep path, difficult).

Take advantage of the freshness and silence of the morning to head for Rooney Creek with the shuttle. On the program: Marions Lookout then a passage on the valley before climbing (literally) the summit then descending by Dove Lake. The total is about 18km and is intense. This is to be modulated according to your desires and your physical abilities. We have warned you anyway.

The nice thing is that you can see everything on the way. Even unpaved paths can be seen from the lookouts. Remember to sign up before leaving. In Tasmania, it is mandatory to register before you go on a hike. Are you ready? Let’s go!

Beginning of the hike

From Rooney Creek, take the Overland Track Trail on a beautiful wooden boardwalk. Then you head towards Crater Lake. On the way, you walk through a rainforest. Apart from the creaking wood and the gurgling of the river, it is absolutely silent. Finally you arrive at the lake. The mountain is reflected in the water, which is a very picturesque sight.

With a bit of courage, you will reach the Marion Lookout , surrounded by mountains, valleys, and lakes. Directly in front of you is Dove Lake, and a bit hidden you see Wombat Poo and Lake Willis . Take time to look around and enjoy Crater Lake from above. Your destination is so close now: the summit.

Climbing to the summit

Stop at the refuge at the foot of the mountain for a well-deserved picnic. Have a look at your watch and check your water and energy supply. The climb has already been challenging and yet the summit seems to be much higher. And that is indeed the case. The sign at the beginning of the trail indicates a two and a half hour hike. The ascent is not a walk in the park, so plan enough time.

Even though this hike can make the most adventurous hiker sweat, it is obviously very satisfying to arrive at the top and to enjoy the view. Be well prepared, take plenty of water with you, allow enough time, and watch where you’re going (especially during the descent!).

At the foot of the summit, head for Willis Lake . This descent gives you a taste of what is awaiting you. On the way to Dove Lake , you will get dizzy. At particularly steep spots, you can cling to a chain. Your calves and thighs will be sore for sure, but don’t give up! Go on through a beautiful forest before finally arriving at Dove Lake. All you have to do now is following the trail to reach the end of your hike and find a seat on the bus. Breathe in, admire the view and be proud of what you can do!

Practical information

National parc, weather / fires.

Written by Ronan Pezzini

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Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary for Cradle Mountain –

by Jeanine | Aug 31, 2022 | 32 comments

Cradle Mountain

Whilst many make a day trip to Cradle Mountain, when in Tasmania and we have also been included in the many for that. Our experience showed us, one day is not nearly enough and why we put together this 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain. To say Cradle Mountain is one of the most iconic places in Tasmania, and a must to visit is not a stretch. It truly is one of the most unique places to visit in Australia. It is a place many have on their ‘Destination “DO” Lists’ and rightly so.

The majority of people come to the mountain to take in the natural splendour of the surrounding landscape and partake in a walk or two. Included in our 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain, are some of the more popular walks, including the type and level of experience needed.  We have also included some of the other activities we personally did and those that we wished to do but ran out of time and energy…Though it does give us an excuse to return…not that I need much reason for that, it is truly one of the most beautiful areas about.

I hope this 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain gives you inspiration to visit and as much joy as it did us. If you’d like to find out more about planning and our favourite places…

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Our travel checklists , are the first step to start your independent travelling. Start building your own Destination ‘DO’ List, or prioritise the one you have. Perfect for planning a 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain.

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Preview – 3-day Itinerary for Cradle Mountain

Our preview, briefly highlights, some tips for how to get there, places to stay and what to pack. We also give you some of the things you can discover in a 3-day itinerary for  Cradle Mountain. Giving a brief description of article and internal links to sections that can be of benefit to you…

• How to Get to Cradle Mountain – an outline of the options in both transport and routes from 3 main entry points
• Be Prepared – some of the important things that are recommended to prepare take for your trip
• Places to Stay  – we offer a few options on where to stay whilst visiting
• 3 day Itinerary for Cradle Mountain – what can be expected for each day, including our experiences during our 3 day trip.
• What to Pack – a highlight of some of the essential items to take for your trip
• Other Places of Interest   – a few extra places to visit: before – during – after,   your trip that are in the immediate area.

How to get to Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is in the northwest of Tasmania and whilst for our 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain a car isn’t required. If you want to explore more of the area it is certainly desired. You are able to access the area via tours (one day or more), and there are bus companies that offer transfers, such as Cradle Mountain Coaches . If travelling by coach it is recommended your entry point be Launceston or Devonport. No matter how you choose to come to Tasmania, you can fly or float (catch the ferry), and get a transfer.

Transfers from Hobart can also be arranged through e-Guide Cradle Mountain Transfers . However, like driving this could cut into the time of your 3-day Itinerary for Cradle Mountain.

Driving from the major arrival ports of Tasmania

When coming to Tasmania, you will arrive at one of three major arrive ports of entry.

• Hobart – Capital of the with the largest airport
• Launceston – major northern city with second largest airport
• Devonport – large town with a smaller airport and ferry terminal for those wishing to bring their own vehicle.

Devonport and Launceston are the two closest points to Cradle Mountain. Entering via one of these ports would ensure you get the most from your 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain, in the event time is limited. Travel times from each port are below using Google mymaps , which we regularly use to plan and map out our itineraries.

If you are planning an extended stay in Tasmania, entry from any port would not be an issue to enjoy all the state has to offer. However, we do recommend if flying that you enter via one major airport and leave from the other. This ensures you get to enjoy the 3-day itinerary for Cradle mountain and so much more.

Devonport SOT (Ferry Terminal)

90 kms  (miles) – 1 hour, 35 minutes

Devonport Airport

97 km (miles) – 1 hour, 39 minutes

Launceston Airport

156 km (miles) – 2 hours, 12 minutes

Hobart Airport

318 km (miles) – 4 hours, 8 minutes

Be Prepared

As part of planning any itinerary, but especially a 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain. There are some things that are required to be checked before booking and re-checked as time gets closer to your trip.

The weather in Tasmania can be precarious in any area, it can be particularly that way up on Cradle Mountain where it can snow at anytime of the year. We have added average weather to our ‘ Come Explore Tasmania ‘ article. Though to be sure I would double check with the World Weather Service or Australia’s Bureau of Meterology .

Another recommended way to get a peak at the weather is with the weathercam for Cradle Mountain.

Have Travel Insurance

Part of being prepared for a 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain is to having travel insurance . For that matter I am a strong advocate for travel insurance for any itinerary or trip. The fact that it can snow at any time of the year and close you in or out of the park makes it even more important. As an example, we went last November (2021), the week before we arrived there was a massive dump of snow that closed the National Park. No one got in or out… there was still evidence of snow during our walks around the park over a week later…

It was however priceless seeing Greg’s face when I told him it was snowing…his reaction OMG are we going THIS week…Poor Greg

Get a NP Parks Pass

Whether you are coming in for a short trip, staying longer or travelling around Tasmania.  It is a requirement for entry to Cradle Mountain and other National Parks you may want to visit, to have a valid parks pass .

We recommended getting a holiday pass (valid for 2 months) . This is on average equivalent to the same cost as 2.5 days in Cradle Mountain or 2 days for other parks. Alternatively, if your trip is longer than two months or you are a frequent visitor to Tasmania, an annual pass is a better option.

You are able to get your parks pass online and sent to you, alternatively you can pick one up at the Visitors Centre at the beginning of your 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain.

Places to Stay

There are plenty of options of accommodation for any intinerary for Cradle Mountain. However, I would strongly recommend you book ahead of time. As ALL Accor members we often choose to stay at their hotels. This allows us to decide whether to use points or pay . The selection below are some options we have chosen and a sample of the accommodation on offer.

We are highlighting four hotels, within close proximity to the National Park so as to complement your itinerary for Cradle Mountains, many of which have inhouse dining.

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

Nestled on the edge the NP, with an option of lodge accommodation, cottages or suites. At the lodge you have the choice of an exceptional restaurant, focussing on local (Tasmanian) produce source where possible in a 160km radius. Additionally, there is a tavern and bar that serves a great casual dining menu, and a store on the property.

The property also has several of the shorter walking tracks that are all easy access and some of the waterfall tracks. Additionally, it is an easy walk to one of the shuttle buses pick up points, for the longer walks within the park.

Cradle Mountain Hotel

This hotel is the first upon entering the Cradle Mountain area, offering a variety of accommodation including deluxe spa and split level rooms. Set in delightful bushland, you can do as much or as little as you like. Book a massage at the onsite Retreat Spa, explore the wilderness gallery, or a Tasmanian beer or wine tasting may be more to your liking. Of course, you are only a short distance from the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre (4min drive 1.8km).

The hotel offers the Altitude Restaurant and Altitude Lounge bar as your dining choices. Whether it’s a casual light meal in the lounge area or a sit down menu of local seasonal food, these dining options have you covered.

Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village

On the edge of the National Park, this accommodation offers a range of options to choose from. Including superior and luxury, self-contained cottages for couples or families. additionally, you can meet in the shared lounge area if travelling in a group and there is a guest laundry onsite. The village is only 10 mins walk from the Visitor Centre and main shuttle bus point down into the walks available.

You can dine at Hellyers Restaurant, offering 2 and 3 course menus, of local seasonal produce. The menu compliments the area which is known as the ‘Foraging Region’. You are also able to get a light meal at Hellyers lounge or take away. Additionally, a selection of two hampers are on offer for breakfast.

Cradle Mountain Highlanders

Within easy walking distance of the Visitor Centre (5mins), offering a choice of 16 cabins, surrounded by the bush setting. Each cabin is set apart to offer privacy and equipped with kitchen facilities, wood or gas heating and some having a luxurious spa. There are BBQ facilities on site and a guest laundry. The reception area is separate, where you can purchase a selection of essentials for your stay.

Whilst there is no restaurant onsite, you are only a short distance (1.5km radius) from the other hotel dining options.

Alternatively if you have a mobile home or love to camp, the Cradle Mountain Discovery Park is the place to go. In addition to campsites here you will also find cabins, backpackers (male & female) and dorm style accommodation. Within the park there is a camp kitchen, BBQ area, guest laundry and general store. The general store offers some essential items, local produce and a selection of beverages.

What to Pack

Your itinerary for Cradle Mountain will more than likely include some or a lot of walking. As that is the main reason the majority of people come to Cradle Mountain. So when considering what to include in your packing make sure you have suitable walking/hiking gear. If your itinerary for Cradle Mountain only includes easy walks comfortable shoes are still essentials.

Additionally, no matter the time of year, Cradle Mountain is always a cooler climate than most areas in Tasmania. Which means no matter what other area you are visiting some cold climate essentials are required as inclusions to the itinerary for Cradle Mountain, packing. However, a hat and sunscreen are also essentials no matter what time of year for all of Tasmanian.

Our travel checklists also have packing lists for cold and warm climate destinations.

3-Day Itinerary for Cradle Mountain

No matter were you are travelling from to start your 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain there will be a drive required. The Visitor Centre opens at 09:00 and closes at 16:00, we always aim to arrive between 09:00-10:00 to get the most out of our visit. We have done a 3-day itinerary for Cradle Mountain a few times and this is a mix of those varied itineraries.

For us any itinerary for Cradle Mountain is about the landscape, history and a LOT of walking. So please take from this what you want and do as much or as little as you desire…

The first day of our itinerary for Cradle Mountain, like any first day is all about familiarisation.

• head straight to the Visitor Centre to get our shuttle passes or Parks Pass (if our renewal is needed). We also grab an update on the walks, any activities on whilst visiting.
• check in to Accommodation – leave bags if still early and room isn’t ready.
• Weindorfers Forest walk and Waldheim Chalet are usually first off or last for the day (40-50mins walk, grade 1 & 2)
• Dove Lake walk, which is our main walk for the day (2-3 hour walk, grade 3

alternatively we do

• Crater Lake walk, as our main walk for the day (2 hour walk, 5.7 km, grade 3) as a personal note this was rougher than Dove Lake and took us 2.5-3 hours (I may have got us lost once or twice)
• we pack out lunch for the first day and stop along the way to eat Dove Lake is especially good for picnics  –  alternatively we head back to the accommodation settle in and have some lunch, which is usually mid afternoon (dependent on when you leave)
• rainforest walk , (10mins, grade 1)
• the enchanted walk , (20 mins, grade 2)
• the waterfalls walk , (30-40 mins, easy)
• King Billy track , (40 mins, easy)
• speeler track , (1.5 hours, medium)
• relax and have dinner at the accommodation, maybe a couple of drinks, then often fall exhausted into bed

Day two of our itinerary for Cradle Mountain, after breakfast we spend the morning exploring.

• Dove Canyon Track, (3hrs return, hard track), this meets up from Knyvet falls on the waterfall track where you can continue on, going the full length or return

alternatively

• we take it a bit slower with more of the shorter walks.
• lunch at one of the restaurants
• visit the Wilderness Gallery, to see what some of the local artists have
• visit Devils @ Cradle, for an ‘After Dark Experience’, to learn about the devils and the conservation programs at the sanctuary
• the evening is an encore of the night before, dinner, drinks and often a hot soak in a bath/spa then fall into bed exhausted

Day three of our itinerary for Cradle Mountain… you guessed it we do some more walking.

• breakfast, pack bags
• check out to accommodation – leave bags often in our car or at reception
• have some lunch at one of the lounge/bars
• bid a fond farewell as our itinerary for Cradle Mountain is finished

Extra Notes and Days:

If you would like to include a spa retreat package into your itinerary for Cradle Mountain.  I strongly recommend booking this, the same time you book your accommodation, to avoid disappointment.   

If you would like to extend your stay to do all the walks on offer or use as a base, be sure to add extra days to your accommodations.

Up for a bit more of an adventure, Cradle Mountain Canyons can help…go canyoning with some of the best…

If you would like to do some of the longer walks you have a choice of the Cradle Summit Walk (8 hours return, 12.8km, grade 5) or the popular Overland Track walk. However, be advised the latter is a 65km one-way multi-day, grade 4 walk, that takes on average 6 days to complete. The Parks and Wildlife service offers information for this and a checklist to be completed. Alternatively, you can organise a tour can be arranged through with one of the walking companies in Tasmania (overnight camping is required).

Extra Places of Interest

Other places in close proximity that you may want to include before or after your itinerary for Cradle Mountain are:

Mole Creek Caves – Explore, Marakoopa and King Solomons Caves

Sheffield – The town of murals

Alternatively, extend your itinerary for Cradle Mountain and go West exploring:

West Coast Towns  – extend your trip to West Coast Tasmania

• Queenstown – Iron Blow Lookout
• Strahan – Gordon River Cruises
• Zeehan – West Coast Heritage Centre
• Corrina – takayna/ Tarkine-Pieman River

Other articles that may help you.

Come explore to Tasmania all you need to know.

Coming to Tasmania, should you fly or float?

7 Essentials to Pack for Cold Climate Destinations

13 Best One Day Itineraries around Launceston

15 Best Tamar Valley wineries a must to visit

4 Great stops on the Hobart to Launceston Road Trip

13 Best Luxury Hotels to Stay in Hobart

13 Must Do One Day Itineraries around Hobart

13 Delicious Restaurants Around Hobart CBD

6 steps to Create YOUR Perfect itinerary

9 Tips for YOUR Perfect Travel Plan and Budget

6 Luxury Accommodation Styles Pros and Cons

I am always happy to reply to any comments, suggestions for next articles or a hello. You can contact me through our Social Media or at   jeanine@ letsgoawandering.com   with any questions or comments. 

32 Comments

Always love your itineraries! What animal is that in the picture? Cradle mountain looks stunning and serene.

In fact what are all of the animals haha don’t recognise them

Ha ha the animals pictured are a Wallaby (in the mountains they have longer hair) a marsupial similar to Kangaroo but smaller…Then the little black fellow is a Tasmanian Devil, next to the table setting is a Wombat all native to Australia…and all but the Tasmanian Devil are just roaming about…

It’s a great place for walks and relaxing…

I love how your itineraries are so thorough and helpful. I haven’t been to Tasmania, but this makes me want to go. 🙂

Thank you, and Tasmania is gorgeous no matter where you go, you can find some gorgeous landscape…

The nature around this mountain is truly spectacular! It truly seems like “civilization” with all the bad that comes with it has stopped at the entrance to this park. It is so nice to see that there are still such pristine locations around the world where you can come face to face with the unsuspecting wildlife or drink water right out of the stream. It would be such a great trip to unwind and unplug.

it is a beautiful area and also part of the Tasmanian Wilderness Heritage area…so there are plenty of that here, but I love that when you do walk around the zero waste policy is adhered to…it is breathtaking

Just the name of this mountain caught my attention immediately. It sounds as if civilisation has started there, although perhaps that is lost from our collective conscience (or maybe not!). You did think of everything again and offered the tiniest details to prepare one for a fascinating trip. Imagine you and me on those tracks, we’d have heaps to debate!:))

It actually has a fascinating history of how it started ha ha and oh yes we would have some amazing debates sitting atop the mountain watching the sunset…especially why Wombats have square Poop…

LOL! I was thinking more of a metaphysical nature:))))))))))

of course silly me

This seems an amazing place to visit. Something I would consider in my future travel plan.

It truly is, you’d love it

Great post! Wish to take this trip one day.

Thank you, I hope you can it’s a great experience

This looks so picturesque, amazing canyons.. Such a cozy accomodation..

We did love the cosiness of the accommodations, and the views are spectacular…

Wow such beautiful views. You have a lot of stamina to manage all that exercise though. What animal is that on the 3rd&4th from bottom pics ?

They are beautiful views…I never thought about it that way, but had early nights and great sleeps ha ha… The animals are Tasmanian Devil and a Wombat

What a wonderful-sounding escape to nature!

For the multi-day treks you mention, I suppose backcountry camping is allowed? What arrangements ( permits are needed for that?

It is a true escape into nature once you get into the mountains…for the multi-day treks you need a parks pass and to register at the visitors centre and again on entering the overland track…it’s a National Park so rangers are about…there are platforms and some huts to use along the way

Never would have guessed that you would have snow.

ha ha yes we do in some different areas of Australia in Winter… those shots were actually taken in mid-November…coming into Summer so Tasmania get’s snow spasmodically all year round ha ha

This is a complete and very helpful guide to plan a trip. Thank you for sharing!

Thank you so much I wanted to make it as full for all types of people

This was explained very well! I enjoyed the read. 🏔

Thank you, glad it was a help

I’m UK based and yet to travel outside of Europe so this is all new to me, but wow! What a place. I love a good mountain trip in the UK or maybe to the Alps or Dolomites but this place is something else. Love the look of the Highlander cabins, right up my street. Lovely post, very much enjoyed!

Thank you and I hope you make it down south to enjoy…those cottages are gorgeous and toastie warm in winter…I can’t wait to go to the Highlands in the UK…I love the Dolomiti and the Alps also ha ha

Never heard of this place but after reading this I would love to visit! Those waterfalls look beautiful!

Maybe it’s only iconic in Tasmania ha ha…I am glad it inspired you and those waterfalls were the little ones…on the easy walks…Hope you get to visit someday

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Cradle Mountain travel guide

Cradle mountain tourism | cradle mountain guide, you're going to love cradle mountain.

With a population of 288, Cradle Mountain is a must-see destination in Tasmania, Australia. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Consider staying at least one whole day in Cradle Mountain to see all of its attractions.

Activities & attractions in Cradle Mountain

When to visit Cradle Mountain

How to get to cradle mountain.

Although Cradle Mountain doesn’t have its own airport, you can fly to Devonport (DPO), which is located 70 km from Cradle Mountain. Devonport is the most popular, with regular flights from Rex, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways and other airlines departing from Australia. The shortest domestic flight to Cradle Mountain departs from Melbourne and takes around 1h 20m.

Another option to get to Cradle Mountain is to pick up a car hire from Hobart, which is about 176 km from Cradle Mountain. You’ll find branches of Bargain Car Rentals and YesDrive Car Rental, among others, in Hobart.

Airports near Cradle Mountain

Airlines serving cradle mountain, where to stay in popular areas of cradle mountain, most booked hotels in cradle mountain, hiring a car in cradle mountain.

Expect to pay $1.81 per litre in Cradle Mountain (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your car hire, filling up the tank will cost between $21.69 and $28.92.

How to Spend 2 Nights in Cradle Mountain: Tasmania’s Wilderness

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: March 4, 2024

Cradle Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination on a trip to Tasmania. I had read about the untouched wild landscape and fantastic hikes and wanted to work it into my 8-night Tasmania road trip Itinerary.

I decided on which hiking trails I wanted to do and concluded that staying for 2-nights in Cradle Mountain would be enough time to experience several of Cradle Mountain’s shorter hikes and also get to visit the Tasmanian Devils’ wildlife sanctuary.

Writing this post has brought back to me just how special this place is and how much I loved it there, and I hope you find this post helpful in planning your own trip to this magical wilderness.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – For more information, please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy.

Table of Contents

First Impressions of Tasmania

My son Dominic and I had arrived in Tasmania from Melbourne on the overnight ferry, the Spirit of Tasmania. Once the rental car had been picked up (by a very tired Angie), we were on our way to Cradle Mountain by way of Sheffield, the Tassie town known for its murals . 

We were already getting an idea of what the Tasmanian Wilderness had in store for us during our drive. Eagles soared in the clear blue skies above, and beautiful enchanting views of mountains and lakes allowed us a glimpse of Tasmania’s unspoilt natural beauty.

This must be a national park for the people for all time. It is magnificent, and people must know about it and enjoy it. Gustav Weindorfer – Tasmanian Botanist

The Driving Time from Devonport (ferry terminal) to Cradle Mountain is 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Driving times are approximate, but allow extra time if you stop in Sheffield. We grabbed a coffee and croissant there and wandered the streets, taking photos of the impressive murals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cradle mountain.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair is one of Australia’s best and most important national parks. It is a Unesco World Heritage Area of outstanding natural beauty, spanning an impressive 1600km2. The national park incorporates the iconic Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair, rainforests and diverse flora and fauna.

Visitors come to Cradle Mountain to immerse themselves in the extraordinary natural wilderness and explore the Cradle Mountain hiking trails. From easy routes such as the Enchanted Walk to the difficult 6-day Overland Track that leads through the heart of the Tasmanian World Heritage Area, there are hiking trails for all abilities.

If you want to be at one with nature, then 2-nights in Cradle Mountain will make you feel revived and replenished, but beware, you may not want to leave!

Is 2-Nights in Cradle Mountain Enough Time?

This all depends on what you have on your travel itinerary. If you want to do a few short hikes (including Dove Lake , listed as one of Tasmania’s 60 best short walks), spend some time relaxing, and maybe visit Devils@CradleMountain , then 2-nights is the perfect amount of time to immerse yourself in the spectacular surroundings.

If you want to do several long hikes, you will need to add a few more days to your Cradle Mountain itinerary. This will allow you to include some downtime in your schedule.

Driving Times

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is located in the heart of Tasmania. Driving times from each of the towns are as follows:

Devonport 1 h 15 mins

Launceston 1h 50mins

Strahan 2 h

Hobart and Freycinet National Park 4h

Please bear in mind these are approximate timings but can change due to weather and road conditions.

Purchasing Cradle Mountain Passes

You must visit Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre to buy mandatory permits for your stay. We opted for the Cradle Mountain icon daily pass at $25 per adult (including the shuttle bus).

Yes, this is costly; however, funds are reinvested in the upkeep of the parks and reserves. Every person buying a pass helps towards the future preservation of Tasmania’s natural landscape. Cradle Mountain maps can also be picked up from here.

Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain

There are only a few places offering accommodation in Cradle Mountain.

For us, Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village ticked all the boxes. We wanted self-catering accommodation to make lunches for our hikes and evening meals easily. We also wanted our accommodation in the bush to see lots of wildlife. It was, and we did!

Other places to stay that you might like are:

Cradle Mountain Hotel – Luxury

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge – Luxury

Cradle Mountain Highlanders – Comfort

Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain – Budget

For additional accommodation near Cradle Mountain, the town of Moina is a good option. For more information, please see my post, 9 Best Cradle Mountain Accommodations for a Wilderness Break .

Wildlife in Cradle Mountain

I will be totally honest and tell you that I didn’t see much wildlife during my stay in Cradle Mountain. I had visions of kangaroos hopping about everywhere and wombats scurrying across my path as I walked. In fact, the only animals I saw were one echidna, one possum, several pademelons and lots of big black birds called Currawongs.

Despite not seeing a wombat (do they really exist!) and definitely no platypus (as displayed on various signboards near the waterfalls) – I still had the best time. Cradle Mountain is one of those places where nothing can disappoint you, and it became my favourite place to visit during my 6-week trip around Australia.

Ensure you stay on the boardwalks and designated trails while in Cradle Mountain. They are there to protect the natural environment and animals from being overly disturbed by hoards of inquisitive hikers.

If you drive in Cradle Mountain at dusk, be mindful of wallabies, echidnas, and all their friends merrily wandering along in the middle of the road. I saw a lot of roadkill in Tasmania and was really affected by it, so please stick to the speed limits.

When is the best time to visit Cradle Mountain?

We visited in February, and the weather was perfect however the weather in Cradle Mountain can be very temperamental. Tasmania’s climate differs from mainland Australia so great care should be taken to pack the right clothing and footwear.

Layers are the perfect answer to topsy-turvy weather patterns. Pile them on and then peel them off as needed.

Remember to wear high-factor sunscreen, as Tasmania has a thin ozone layer, and extra protection is needed. There are midges at play in Tassie, so wear a mosquito block to stop yourself from looking like a pin cushion. I forgot to apply it one morning, and midges bit my ankles to bits!

November to February are Australia’s summer months, so the weather is warm, although this is peak season and sees more tourists arriving.

Autumn is a real mixed bag of weather, but the landscape’s changing colours are very appealing.

Winter will be cold, and you can see snow and sunshine all in one day.

Spring is also temperamental but is when new life unfolds, so it is a magical time to visit.

2-Night Cradle Mountain Itinerary

Day one – morning.

Driving toward the national park was something very special and will always stay with me. The scenery is awe-inspiring, and the majesty of Cradle Mountain looming in the distance brings a lump to the throat.

As we drove across the bridge into the national park, we saw Pencil Pine Cascades. We parked up in Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge car park (the start of several smaller hiking routes) and crossed the road to take photos of the waterfall from the bridge. This is exactly why we had come to Cradle Mountain – to see nature at its finest.

The Enchanted Walk

We were too early to check in to our cabin and were already parked up, so we decided to explore the Enchanted Walk, starting by the bridge opposite the lodge. It is an easy 20-minute circular stroll through a moss-covered forest with ferns and the Pencil Pine River running alongside.

It’s here we spotted our first pademelon (which looks like a small kangaroo) and were so excited! Keep an eye out for wombats in this area. We didn’t see any, but apparently, they love it here and make their burrows along the bank!

The Waterfalls Walk

Back at the start of the Enchanted Walk, we then decided to take the Dove Canyon Track to see Pencil Pine Falls and Knyvet Falls. The walk takes around 40 minutes and leads you to a viewing platform and seating area to view Knyvet Falls. The whole track is boarded, so it is suitable for all abilities.

Our cabin at Wilderness Village

With passes sorted out, we finally got into our accommodation, and I was thrilled with our cabin. The cabins were all spaced out well, and I felt like I really was in the middle of the wilderness. A balcony with a table and chairs was the perfect place to sit and enjoy morning coffee (and, later that evening, the local wine!)

On both evenings during our stay, we were visited by a menagerie of animals. A family of pademelons, lots of birds and a possum (it was the first time I had seen one and they are big!).

It decided to come onto our balcony one evening and just stared at us through the netting on the patio door. I thought it looked cute but was told later by a local that the possum is regarded as a nuisance and causes quite a bit of damage to property. How can something with such a cute face be so naughty?

Restaurants in Cradle Mountain

We spent some time in our cabin, showering and chilling after our early morning start. I was startled by the brown water from the taps but was told by reception that it was tannin from tree roots.

The colour is picked up as the water passes through from the mountains. It is harmless but does look weird as it cascades over you in the shower!

After our mid-afternoon rest, we went out again to find somewhere to eat. Be warned, there are no fast food outlets.

You either eat in one of the hotels or cook for yourself (stock up on provisions in Sheffield). We returned and ate at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge and enjoyed a pasta dish, burgers and a local cider in the sunshine on the deck – all cooked to perfection.

Day One – Evening

Meeting the tasmanian devils.

After another wander around the area adjacent to the restaurant, hoping to spot some wildlife (we didn’t see anything), we jumped back in the car and headed down the road to join the evening feeding tour at Devils@CradleMountain.

I was hoping I might see a wild Tasmanian devil walking around the bush, but it seems they are endangered, so the best way of learning about them and seeing them first-hand is at this wonderful animal sanctuary.

The tour started at 5.30 pm and lasted 75 minutes. We learnt about how they hunt and the facial tumours that are wiping the species out. I would definitely add this to your itinerary as you can’t come to Tassie and not see a Devil in the flesh!

Day Two – Morning/Afternoon

Dove lake walk.

I had been looking forward to the Dove Lake Walk since I first decided to plan a trip to Tasmania. I had seen its natural beauty in photographs and longed to see it myself. Now, here we were, sitting in the Cradle Mountain shuttle bus, being taken to this picturesque destination.

The vista of Dove Lake, with the backdrop of the two mountain peaks, takes your breath away. It is one of the most popular walks in Cradle Mountain and one of the most popular destinations to visit in Tasmania.

The walk takes you around the glacial lake, through temperate rainforest, past small areas of shingle and sand beach and ancient myrtle trees. The walk ends at the iconic Dove Lake boatshed, a focal point that is a photographer’s dream. In fact, every part of the walk is inspirational, and I must have taken over 100 photos!

Day Two – Evening

After a fantastic day at Dove Lake, we were pretty worn out (and a little bit sunburnt!) and decided to chill out around the cabin and check out the pool table and bar in the guest area of the reception. This is also the only place you will get wifi, so don’t be shocked to see phones charging and guests busily texting!

We both concluded that two nights in Cradle Mountain had been the perfect amount of time for us to do everything we had wanted, with time to relax at our cabin in the wilderness.

Of course, plenty of other outdoor activities in Cradle Mountain will keep you entertained. From kayaking and canyoning to horse-riding, after-dark wildlife spotting and even scenic flights above the wilderness.

And for those looking for the ultimate in relaxation, the Waldheim Spa is the place to sort out those tired muscles, drift off and dream about an enchanted place called Cradle Mountain.

Final Thoughts About Cradle Mountain

If you are considering coming to Cradle Mountain, you won’t be disappointed.

It is one place on earth where I felt the natural world around me had remained untouched by man. I absolutely loved everything about Cradle Mountain, and if I ever get the chance to return, I will in a heartbeat.

Please   Pin for Future Travel to Australia

Looking for further Australian inspiration? Please check out the following posts:

• A journey through Australia on the Ghan Train
• Sheffield – The Colourful Town of Murals
• 2 Nights in Cradle Mountain Tasmania
• 2 Nights in Freycinet National Park Tasmania .
• Where to see a Tasmanian Devil
• Adelaide to Melbourne Road Trip

Need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  resources page  to help you plan your trip.

 I would like to receive occasional updates and new travel posts.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Linda (LD Holland)

Tuesday 26th of July 2022

On the travel wish list! Would love to visit Tasmania when we get back to Australia. A few nights in the Cradle Mountain National Park sounds like something we should plan. We would not want to miss the Tasmanian devils’ wildlife sanctuary. I can see how you would be replenished after a few days in this environment with all these great hikes. 

WhereAngieWanders

I absolutely loved everything about Cradle Mountain and hope that you get there one day to experience it for yourself.

Sunday 17th of October 2021

I love this! I was hoping to go to Tasmania the last time I was in Australia but didn't make it. You have sold me on definitely visiting next time...when I'm allowed back in the country;) And Cradle Mountain looks stunning! Thanks for sharing.

Laureen Lund

I loved this post! We spent a month in Australia only to realize we need five months to see it all! Looking forward to a return visit and Tasmania is high on the list. Thanks for putting together such a great guide. I will refer to it in our future planning.

I am glad you found it useful and I agree you can never have long enough to see Australia. I plan to go back one day and spend about 2 months just on Tasmania because I loved it so much.

Saturday 16th of October 2021

One of my favourite places in Tasmania. This post brings back many happy memories. I was so excited when I saw the Tasmanian devils - a highlight.

Me too! What a noise they make when they are being fed!!

A guide to the dreamiest Cradle Mountain accommodation

Elizabeth Whitehead

Writer & Producer

13 February 2023

Find the best place to base yourself to explore the majestic beauty of Cradle Mountain.

There’s no better way to experience the majesty of the Tasmanian wilderness than a stay in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The various Cradle Mountain accommodation options allow visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking surroundings of one of the most special wilderness areas in Australia. With forests burgeoning with button grass, beech trees and pristine bushlands, a stay at Cradle Mountain is a truly magical experience. You’ll be perfectly placed to experience all the hiking trails and activities Cradle Mountain has to offer, followed by a superb meal at any of Cradle Mountain’s best restaurants . From luxury lodges to quirky hotels and cosy cabins, there’s a stay to suit every style of travel. Discover yours below.

Cosy lodges, cabins and cottages

This style of accommodation offers privacy and seclusion surrounded by beautiful Tasmanian bushland. With these options for accommodation in Cradle Mountain, you can stay enveloped by the breathtaking wilderness in maximum comfort. When it comes to alpine stays, it doesn’t get much cosier than this.

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

Go for: Alpine luxury combined with an immersive wilderness experience

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge is considered one of Tasmania’s finest stays. (Image: Laura Helle)

If you’re after luxury accommodation in Cradle Mountain , Peppers has accrued an international reputation as one of Tasmania’s finest stays. With the renowned Waldheim Alpine Spa onsite, visitors will be a stone’s throw from a luxurious range of spa therapies surrounded by towering King Billy Pines.

Soak in your private hot tub in the King Billy Suite at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge. (Image: Lauren Bath)

Here, you’ll also be in proximity to some of Tasmania’s best dining experiences with Pepper’s onsite Highland Restaurant, as well as more casual eatery and bar options. Each lodge contains a fireplace and stylish modern decor, with walking tracks radiating from each front doorstep. Located a short walk from the visitor’s centre, Peppers is a great option for those who want to experience alpine luxury at its very best.

Cradle Mountain Highlander Cottages

Go for: Rustic self-contained accommodation with a hand-made touch and a classic cottage feel.

These cottages offer accommodation at Cradle Mountain that feels like a home away from home. Individually designed and hand-built from natural Tasmanian timber, each cabin blends seamlessly with the beautiful bushland surrounding. Each cottage is self-contained, so you can truly make the space your own during your stay. With fireplaces, natural timber details and classic cottage decor, Cradle Mountain Highlander Cottages combines all things hygge for a quintessentially cosy stay.

Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village

Go for: A modern alpine stay in upscale, self-contained accommodation

Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village offers private self-contained cabins with a modern flair. The Village offers family-friendly chalet options, as well as luxury adult-only cottages (that come equipped with a spa bath!) Proximity to the onsite Hellyers Lounge and Bar offers alpine dining at its best, with striking views of Cradle Mountain and the serene natural surrounds. The Lounge also comes well-stocked with board games and DVDs, offering the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.  

Bed down in one of the private self-contained cabins at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village offers. (Image: Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village )

If a hotel getaway is more up your alley, these accommodation options in Cradle Mountain will provide comfortable lodgings with a stylish flair. A hotel stay is perfect if you plan to enter ultimate holiday mode and leave the self-catering at home.

Pumphouse Point (Lake St Clair)

Go for: A boutique hotel experience suspended over Australia’s deepest lake

Pumphouse Point offers upscale accommodation in a converted 1940s pump station. (Image: Stu Gibson)

The quirky yet supremely stylish Pumphouse Point offers upscale accommodation in a converted 1940s pump station suspended over Lake St Clair. (The hotel has two buildings, one on the lake edge and the other at the end of a long pier). Wake up to exquisite views of the deepest lake in the Southern Hemisphere and relax in comfort surrounded by the purity of the Tasmanian wilderness.

The Retreat is Pumphouse Point’s most exclusive suite. (Image: Adam Gibson)

The dreamy view from inside The Retreat at Pumphouse Point. (Image: Adam Gibson)

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in each booking, so you can focus on enjoying the remote stay stress-free. With bikes and rowboats available to borrow from the hotel, Pumphouse Point offers plenty of ways to explore Lake St Clair. Ideal for couples, the vibe here is high-end, yet intimate and friendly.

Cradle Mountain Hotel

Go for: luxury hotel accommodation in Cradle Mountain

For stylish hotel accommodation in Cradle Mountain, look no further than Cradle Mountain Hotel. Here, you’ll be in proximity to modern dining experiences at the Altitude restaurant, as well as great cocktails from the Altitude Lounge Bar. You’ll be met with fireplaces and forest views, and an atmosphere every bit as cosy as it is chic. For those who’d like to add an extra sprinkle of decadence to their stay, there are house-made chocolates to indulge in, and a range of spa services to help you unwind.

A look inside the split-level king room at Cradle Mountain Hotel. (Image: Supplied Courtesy of RACT Destinations)

Derwent Bridge Wilderness Hotel (Lake St Clair)

Go for: Comfort, casual dining and family-friendly vibes a stone’s throw from Lake St Clair

The Derwent Hotel offers practical accommodation with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant serves up hearty pub-style meals in the company of a large crackling fire in winter— creating the perfect atmosphere to return to after a day of exploring. The decor is reminiscent of a rustic mountain lodge, adding to the ambience of cosiness inside. The Derwent Bridge Hotel also offers budget accommodation for groups.

Camping and caravan parks

For nature lovers, it doesn’t get much better than camping in a UNESCO-listed Wilderness area among pristine pines and beautiful bushland. Whether you’re in a tent, camper van or bunked-up in a hut, here is the best camping accommodation in Cradle Mountain.

Find the best camping spots in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. (Image: Sarajayne Lada)

Discovery Holiday Park in Cradle Mountain

Go for: Good value, family-friendly accommodation in a beautiful location

Discovery Holiday Park is the go-to destination for campers of all types, whether you have a tent, caravan or camper van. The park offers powered and unpowered sites, as well as dormitory backpacker accommodation and a few private cabins. Campers will have access to a communal sheltered kitchen, perfect for meeting fellow campers, swapping stories or sharing trail tips. If you prefer a bit more privacy, the chalets and cabin accommodation offer a down-to-earth yet cosy place to relax.

Waldheim Cabins

Go for: An authentic wilderness experience in an iconic mountain hut

These basic cabins offer an authentic wilderness experience for the adventurous at heart. These simple yet charming bunk-style huts are nestled deep in the bushland, secluded away from the resorts and hotels. Here, you’ll have access to heating, self-catering and some of the park’s best walking tracks springing right from your front doorstep. Owned and maintained by the parks and wildlife services, Waldheim Cabins represent some of the most unique accommodation options in Cradle Mountain. The cabins are a short but splendid hike away from the famous Dove Lake along the Lake Lila track, meaning you can ditch the shuttle bus in favour of a scenic trail.

Lake St Clair Camping

Go for: Simple yet idyllic camping on the shores of Lake St Clair

Embrace nature’s simplicity with lakeside camping at the Southern end of the National Park. Fergy’s Paddock is a very basic but beautiful secluded campsite located just 10 minutes from the Lake St Clair visitor’s centre. With camping platforms to pitch your tent, you’ll get a comfortable night’s rest immersed in the sounds of nature. During the day, the campsite is a prime location to enjoy swimming, bushwalking or simply relaxing by the lake.

Nearby stays

Staying in accommodation near cradle mountain has the advantage of being closer to more dining options and amenities, while still retaining the same beautiful surroundings as the national park. There are lots of wonderful waterfalls and trails to discover in the area just north of the park entrance, so these accommodation options are great for anyone who likes to wander off the beaten track.

Tiny Escapes Cradle Valley

Go for: A boutique experience that combines alternative living with countryside luxury

Discover Tasmanian country living at its very finest. Tiny Escapes offers a network of loft-style Tiny Houses, each with an exquisite view over the Black Bluff Conservation area. Each house is self-sufficient and self-contained, combining modern design with an immersive experience in the wilderness. Dreamy and secluded, Tiny Escapes Cradle Valley offers a truly unforgettable stay.

Escape to one of the loft-style tiny houses at Tiny Escapes Cradle Valley. (Image: Tiny Escapes Cradle Valley )

Wombat Cabin

Go for: A rustic alpine getaway immersed in the wilderness

Cocooned in the bushland just 15 kilometres from Cradle Mountain, Wombat Cabin is a picturesque vision of authentic alpine living. With hand-built furniture and rustic timber interiors, you’ll truly feel transported into a cosy mountain escape. The cabin is self-contained, with breakfast supplies included in the rate. In the afternoons and evenings, the cabin deck is an ideal place to spot the visiting wildlife. Wombat Cabin is bound to be a favourite among lovers of wild and remote places.

Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat

Go for: A peaceful stay with amenities and friendly service at arm’s reach

Located against a backdrop of serene rainforest, Lemonthyme Wilderness offers visitors spacious a ccommodation near Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Here, you can choose from decadent spa suites or comfortable self-contained cottages to relax and soak up the beautiful surroundings. The onsite Whispering Woods restaurant offers cuisine made with local Tasmanian produce, served in a down-to-earth and cosy environment.

Elizabeth Whitehead has been a travel writer since she realised the most interesting stories are the ones about the world we live in. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her baking focaccia, birdwatching or exploring in her campervan.

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Cradle Mountain - 5 Hikes and Walks + Wildlife Guide - New Shuttle Bus Ticket

When Is the Best Time

Hiking in the Cradle Mountain National Park is very popular throughout the year. However, you have to deal with snow in the winter, and despite more pleasant temperatures in the summer, the weather is even more unpredictable. Due to the park's high elevation of almost 1000 m elevation, snow can also occur in December, as it happened in 2019, Mid-November 2021 and late November 2022.

Cradle is pretty busy, with the highest accommodation rates and crowds around Dove Lake during the summer. Do you wish to explore Cradle on one of the existing hiking trails? You will find my Table of Content, descriptions, detailed Locus App Maps, and all about the Cradle wildlife below.

Weather by Seasons

The best time to visit Cradle Mountain is from December to March. January and February experience the least amount of rainfall. The winter is the quietest time and the coldest, which makes hiking to the summit in snow and ice sometimes impossible.

These months with the most stable weather are also the busiest. There was a new visitor record in 2021. Visitor numbers are increasing annually; November and April are less crowded. Keep in mind; that the weather at Cradle is notorious for its unpredictability throughout the year. Always check the weather forecast before hiking. In November 2021, there were three rescues in three days due to the poor weather. In late November 2022, Cradle experienced heavy snowfall like in winter.  Weather Forecast  Two forecasts are available: one for Dove Lake and one for Cradle Mountain at 1545 m elevation.

Shuttle Bus Service and Parking - New Shuttle Bus Ticket Summer 2023/24

I couldn't believe the news for Cradle Mountain. A fee of $15 will be introduced for using the shuttle bus from November 15 onwards. The ticket is valid for three days; an annual ticket is $45. You can get the ticket at the Cradle Mountain information centre.

There is one car park at Dove Lake and one at Ronny Creek. Arriving early is recommended in summer before 8 a.m. and in winter before 8.30 a.m. because of the restricted access. Otherwise, shuttle buses have to be taken. For National Park Pass holders, the shuttle bus is free. Due to the increasing number of visitors, a new bus service also for people with disabilities was introduced in 2018. When these medium-sized buses operate, cars can't get to the parking. You must drive behind the bus if you wish to leave the parking with your vehicle during operating hours. If you want to hike independently, consider the bus operating hours. Dove Lake car park capacity of roughly 230 cars - e-car charging available. Now, only cars are allowed, now campervans, caravans, and other more oversized vehicles.

Shuttle Bus Operating Hours

The shuttle goes every ten minutes, however, during crazy summer days, you may line up.

• Summer 8 am - 7.30 pm
• Winter 8.30 am - 4.30 pm
• Visitor Centre
• Interpretation Center and Ranger Station
• Ronny Creek

New Viewing Shelter at Dove Lake

A new viewing shelter was built at Dove Lake, and Cumulus Studio won two prestigious awards. This new modern building includes a hiker registration, an information area, toilets, and a bus shelter. However, who needs a viewing shelter in the rain? If it rains, Cradle is covered in clouds. To experience this incredible National Park's natural beauty, you must hike despite the weather. I talked to several residents, and most don't understand the need for an "ugly box" or "a shelter without a character which does not suit the climate".  Let me know what you think about it

Is It Worth Going to Cradle Mountain?

If you haven't been to Cradle Mountain, you haven't been to Tassie. Experience the pristine wild nature, the alpine landscape, and the fascinating rainforest with abundant wildlife. Even if you only spend a week in Tasmania, this is the Must-Visit National Park. It is an exceptional place to escape it all and has majestic beauty in all seasons.

Can You Do Cradle Mountain in One Day?

Honestly, rushing to Cradle to spend less than one day, in the end, doesn't make sense. If you just wish to see Cradle and Dove Lake and hike around the lake, that is possible in one day. Nevertheless, this is Cradle, notorious for clouds and rainy weather. If you spend just one day here, you cannot count on seeing Cradle Mountain. Due to the remote location, I always recommend at least two nights to be a bit safer to go on a hike to experience this exceptional nature mother earth created here.

Spring (October-November)

Wildflowers are abundant during spring and early summer. Tasmanian Waratah and Banksia are flowering, which is beautiful to see. Echidnas can be seen getting active after hibernation in winter. Day temps range between 10°C-15°C / 50°F-59°F on average. October is one of the windiest months of the year. We experienced snow and hail in November on a higher elevation with 0°C / 32°F while hiking. Also, in 2021 and 2022, it snowed in Cradle until mid-November.

Summer (December-March)

More stable weather from December to April with warmer daily temps on average around 15°C-18°C/59°F-64°F. The "warmest" months are January and February, and less precipitation from January to March. However, the weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for four seasons in one day, even during summer.

If you wish to camp, be prepared for one-digit night temps throughout the year. Even during summer, expect snow as well. If hiking the Overland Track, carry warm clothes as well. In December 2019, three hikers suffered hypothermia, and luckily, all of them got rescued.

Autumn (April - May)

You see a spectacular range of autumn colours in April and May, from gold to deep red. The deciduous beech tree, also called Fagus, is the icing on the cake until it loses its leaves. The tree is endemic to Australia. Daily temps are around 10°C-15°C / 50°F-59°F on average. Nights are cold, ranging from 5°C-3°C / 41°F-37°F, with already increasing rainfall in April. The autumn in 2020 was wet and freezing already, with snowfall at the end of May.

Winter (June-September)

The winter is the wettest time of the year, which means the snow season in Cradle. Snow is expected, usually from July to September, with an average daily temp of 6°C / 43°F. It can get even colder and freezing at night (below 0°C / 32°F). Be prepared for minus degrees at night while camping. The coldest months are July and August.

Hiking can be difficult and strenuous, depending on the amount of snow. If there is heavy snowfall, the road to Dove Lake is closed for 2WD. May and September are a little warmer. However, it is not uncommon to experience snow at Dove Lake and higher elevations in these months.

Top Tip for Cradle Mountain Hiking: Check the weather forecast and conditions before you venture into the National Park. Check out the  Weather Link or stop by the visitor centre.

Avoiding Crowds

Cradle is the second most visited National Park in Tassie, attracting more than 300,000 people each year and increasing visitor numbers annually. You almost don't experience any crowds in the low season during winter. During summer, it's busy with visitors worldwide, especially at Dove Lake. Longer and more strenuous hikes are less trafficked. To get a memorable experience, visit the park early in the morning, and it gets less busy again in the late afternoon. The crowdiest months are from December to March nowadays. November and April are still busy but bearable.

Top Tip for the Peak Season : Start your hike before dawn with headlights and enjoy a breathtaking sunrise from Marians Lookout. 

Hikes and Wildlife Guide can be found below.

Packing List - 8 Tips for Cradle

Good preparation is key for the Cradle Mountain National Park, not only in the winter.

• Clothes that you can layer on.
• A rainproof jacket - softshell throughout the year.
• Gloves and a woollen hat even in summer for hikes in higher elevations.
• Hiking Boots and gaiters; gaiters protect you from the scrub. We bought them in the Cradle Mountain visitor centre.
• Hiking Poles (depending on the trails you like to do).
• Plenty of water and electrolytes , plan at least three litres for a day hike in the summer.
• Crampons during winter for hiking in higher elevations.
• A waterproof camera is the best option - showers and rain occur throughout the year.

Top Tours for Cradle Mountain and Tassie

These are my recommended tours via GetYourGuide. Thx for booking via my website! With your support, I am able to provide all information first-hand. Tour prices are at no extra cost!

Where to Stay (Hotels | Lodging Tips)

The iconic Cradle Mountain National Park, with its glaciated landscape, 25 peaks, tarns, exceptional flora and fauna, waterfalls, and hikes, attracts more and more visitors worldwide. The park is spectacular at any time of the year. Usually, visitors stay here for one or two nights which is too short, IMO. I recommend staying at least three nights if you have a day to spare.

There are different accommodation types and price categories around Cradle Mountain. Book your accommodation and self-catering cottage well in advance, otherwise, expect a much higher rate on the day of arrival. 

• Cabins and Cottages close to Cradle Mountain
• Low Budget Cabins from Discovery Park ; nice and functional – We stayed here twice and loved it! Wifi for free around the reception. The cabins are clean, the kitchen is well-equipped.

 Camping is possible around Cradle Mountain. Powered and unpowered campsites are available at Discovery Parks. Nevertheless, remember that rain and snow are common, and nights are often pretty chilly and uncomfortable; one-digit night temps throughout the year and even minus in the winter.

Best Months to Visit

Related Topics

Location and Tips

Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair National Park were established in 1971. Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area since 1982. In 1922 it was a Scenic Reserve only. It is estimated that millions of native King Billy pines were felled until the 70s. Logging was and still is a threat to the old grown forests in Tasmania. 

We spent several days at Cradle Mountain National Park in February and a year later in November, and none was very sunny. We experienced different seasons in one day except for snow in February. Due to the untamed weather, Cradle Mountain was always covered in clouds four seasons in five days.

Are you looking for stunning Cradle Mountain hiking trails from easy to strenuous? You've come to the right place. Below you can find 5 amazing trails: three at Dove Lake, which you can do from Ronny Creek and one at the Interpretation Centre, plus the famous Overland Track. For a quick overview, check out my Table of Content:

5 Amazing Walks & Hikes

Hiking in Cradle Mountain National Park is a must in all kinds of weather. We visited the park already twice, and despite the weather - snow and hail during our second visit - we would immediately love to explore one of the tracks again.

Dove Lake Car Park and Trail Head

Situated at an altitude of 940 m and nestled amongst the mountain peaks. Many hiking trails with all kinds of difficulties and fitness levels start from here, and trails are well marked. Alternatively, you can also begin the hikes from Ronny Creek at 870 m elevation. A shuttle bus leads to the Dove Lake car park as well. Parking and trailhead ( Google Maps )

1 Dove Lake Circuit Walk

2 Crater Lake Circuit Walk

It’s a very picturesque place, and we took a short photo stop. Now turn right and ascend this track until you reach Crater Peak at 1.270 m elevation. Now, it is a gentle walk in higher elevation to Marion's Lookout offering breathtaking views. Now the trail descends, leading back to where the trail forked. We took a short break on the bench at Wombat Pool, and we were still in awe of this unique landscape. It’s a short detour of 400 m return to get to the picturesque boatshed of Dove Lake, the most famous picture of all. The hike can be done in either direction throughout the year.

3 Cradle Mountain Summit Hike

This hike is the best alternative if you don’t hike the entire Overland Track to get a glimpse into the most beautiful National Park of it all. It is one of the 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania. It’s a pretty strenuous trail due to the length and the climb to the summit. It’s only for experienced hikers without any fear of heights. Know your limits. You can walk the trail in either direction. The added Locus Pro map is how I recommend hiking the trail to explore as much as possible. First, sign in to the logbook. Then hike the narrow path to Lake Lilla, Wombat Pool, and continue to Marions Lookout at 1223 m elevation.

This part takes roughly 1.5 hours. Enjoy the spectacular view of Crater Lake and Dove Lake. Now continue on the Overland Track to Kitchen Hut (1230 m), an emergency hut for overnight. To get here, add max. one hour. Most hikers leave their heavy backpacks in the shed before climbing the steep trail over boulders to the summit on 1545 m elevations. It’s frequently very windy on top but the 360° views are phenomenal. The return hike from the hut to the Cradle Mountain summit takes two to three hours. You can either choose the Face Track via Hansons Peak or Lake Wilks to the Dove Lake Circuit to get back to the car park. The way back takes roughly 2.5 hours. Take a slow pace and enjoy the spectacular scenery and nature. Don't forget to sign out.

Ronny Creek Car Park and Trailhead

The Overland Track starts from here, and also Lake Lilla and Ronny Creek are an alternative for the Dove Lake car park. If you start from Ronny, the hikes will take additional 40 minutes, depending on your pace. Wombats can be spotted here pretty often. Parking and Trailhead ( Google Maps )

4 Overland Track

65 km | 6 days | Permit

Around 8.000 people walk the Overland Track each year. Due to the weather, the most famous season is from 1. October to 31. May. Hikers are required to walk from north to south. Booking in advance is essential for peak season. The fee for adults is 200 $ plus the National Park Pass fee. From 1. June to 30. September advanced booking isn’t required.  

You can hike in either direction, and you have to pay the National Park fee only. Nevertheless, hiking in winter is recommended for experienced alpine hikers only. Expect heavy snow. Snowshoes and crampons are needed. More information and booking Overland Track

Interpretation Centre Car Park and Trailhead  

This is not the information centre; it is located two km before with huge parking. The Interpretation Centre has fauna and flora displays, and it's the ranger station as well. Some Cradle walks start here; the short Enchanted trail to an old-growth rainforest, King Billy Walk, Pencil Pine Falls Rainforest Walk, and the more challenging Dove Canyon Track.Parking and Trailhead ( Google Maps )

5 Enchanted Walk

At this trail, hiking pools are not recommended. The path is too narrow, the boardwalk easy to hike, and hiking pools are obstructive for climbing up the boulders. If you have a day to spare and you want to escape the crowds, this is your hike. Often you can find wombats and pademelons around the Interpretation Center and close to the boardwalk. Watch the path carefully in the forests; many roots are along the track.

Cradle Mountain Wildlife Guide

Cradle Mountain National Park is heaven for wildlife watching. These are the different species you may spot. Most of them are used to humans and let you watch them if you don't get too close. 

Can you imagine these cute guys are fast runners if they must evade predators? They can speed up to 40 km/h. They have poor eyesight; instead, they hear extremely well. Wombats, pademelons, and wallabies are abundant in this park. Three different species of wombats exist. They are about one meter long and dig huge burrow systems with claws and front teeth. Attacks on people with teeth and claws can happen.

Wallabies and Pademelons

They can be spotted late afternoon and evening, especially near Waldheim Lodge and Cabins. Different species of wallabies can be found everywhere in Tassie and so at Cradle Mountain. Kangaroos, wallabies, and pademelons are marsupials, all members of the same family and are often named after their habitat, like the brush wallaby, the shrub wallaby, and the rock wallaby. 

Pademelons are also frequently seen around self-catering cottages. Pademelons are shy, rarely leaving the forest or bush. Their round ears give a mouse-like looking. They have a short lifespan of 4-8 years in the wild. They have adapted to the dense rainforests where they find their food, like leaves, mosses, lichens, and ferns. They are much smaller, having shorter and thicker tails. These are solitary creatures not living in groups.

They are active until the end of summer (March/April) before hibernating again until late October to mid-November.

Tasmanian Devils

Possible to spot but rare. Unfortunately, cases of devil facial tumour disease have been reported recently. Trowunna , close to Cradle Mountain, is an excellent Wildlife Park to see the devils relatively close.

Possums are night-active and frequently seen near garbage bins and around the cottages.

They are extremely difficult to spot, coming out when it's almost dark. We haven't seen any yet.

I frequently get asked if there are snakes in Cradle. Yes, snakes are common in Australia and also in Tasmania. Snakes are most active in the warm summer. I saw several venomous snakes in Tasmania during our four-week vacation.

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Cradle Mountain – All things to know when visiting Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is located at the northern end of Cradle Mountain- Lake St Clair National Park. It is renowned for its diverse landscape and flora.

Here, you can find tranquil glacial lakes, expansive button-grass moorlands, moss-covered rainforests, snow-capped mountain peaks, and abundant wildlife. 

Walking Tracks in Cradle Mountain

Whichever you choose, you will be surrounded by the natural beauty of this wonderful park.

Shorter Walks Near Ranger Station / Interpretation Centre

The enchanted walk.

The Enchanted Walk is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks.

It is a relatively flat, 20 minutes circular walk along Pencil Pine Creek (where I was lucky enough to spot a platypus at nightfall).

With ancient pencil pines and mossy forest, the Enchanted walk will provide you with a taste of Cradle Mountain, without putting on a sweat.

The Rainforest Walk

The Rainforest Walk is another easy and flat walk near the Ranger Station.

It only takes about 10 minutes to complete and will provide you with a view of Pencil Pine Falls.

Dove Canyon Circuit 

If you are up for more challenges, Dove Canyon Circuit could be an option.

The Dove Canyon Circuit is a 3 hours circular walk . It starts just opposite the gift shop.

Along this walk, you will get a close-up view of Pencil Pine Falls and Knyvet Falls, while being surrounded by pristine rainforest.

However, this track can be steep and rocky in certain sections, which may not suit everyone’s taste.

In saying that, you can always follow the boardwalk to Knyvet Falls, before taking the same way back to avoid a long steep hike. This return walk to and from Knyvet Falls will take about 45 minutes instead .

Walking Tracks Near Dove Lake

Dove lake circuit.

Dove Lake is a stunning glacial lake, n estled at the foot of Cradle Mountain. Because of its prime location, Dove Lake offers one of the best views of Cradle Mountain Summit.

The Dove Lake Circuit is a 6km circular walk around Dove Lake, which starts and ends at the Dove Lake Carpark. It is a mostly flat and well-maintained walk, with boardwalks covering the majority of this track.

This circular walk  takes about 2-3 hours to complete , depending on fitness level.  You can explore this walk from either direction, but a clockwise direction is much suggested.

Hansons Peak

When walking clockwise along Dove Lake Circuit, the first track that branches out (on your left-hand side) is the track towards Hansons Peak.

With Dove Lake already sitting at an elevation of 939 metres, the hike to Hansons Peak (1185 metres in elevation) does not seem to be that difficult on paper.

However, as you get closer to the peak, the track becomes very steep with sections of large boulders. You will need help from those chains along this track to scramble up.

Once arrived at Hansons Peak, you will have a full glance at the picturesque Dove Lake, with Cradle Mountain in the background.

After Hansons peak, you can either return to Dove Lake Circuit from the same track you just scrambled up from ( 1 hour one way , depending on fitness level) or continue this clockwise circular walk from the top of these mountain peaks. 

If you continue this walk clockwise from Hansons Peak, you will walk past the beautiful Twisted Lake, before taking Face Track near the Rangers Hut.

Face Track is directly beneath Cradle Mountain Summit. This track does have sections of steep climbs and loose rocks. However, this is a key ‘intersection’ connecting many different tracks and lookouts.

By following Face Track clockwise, you can head over to Lake Wilks, before heading down to Dove Lake Circuit.

Alternatively, if you are up for more challenges, you can head towards the Kitchen Hut.

From Kitchen Hut, you will have the choice of either hiking up to Cradle Mountain Summit, or continuing this clockwise walk towards Marions Lookout. 

Cradle Mountain Summit

If you are feeling adventurous, Cradle Mountain Summit may be for you.

At an elevation of 1545 metres, the hike to Cradle Mountain Summits is a 2-3 hours steep scramble from Kitchen Hut.

From Dove Lake Carpark, it will take around 6-8 hours for a return trip to Cradle Mountain Summit , depending on fitness level and the routes taken.

To attempt this hike, you need to have a hiking experience, with a good fitness level. Waterproof and windproof clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, food, and water will also need to be prepared for this long hike.

Although there is a lot of planning and hard work involved, you will be rewarded with an impressive panoramic view of Dove Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Marions Lookout

Marions Lookout offers a spectacular view of Dove Lake, Crater Lake, and Cradle Mountain. It is a great additional hike from the Kitchen Hut, after visiting Hansons Peak and/or Cradle Mountain Summit. 

From Dove Lake Circuit, the quickest way to this lookout is to use Marions Lookout Link Track. However, this will be a 1-hour long, rough and steep climb (one-way).

Alternatively, you can follow Lake Lilla and Wombat Pool Track, before using part of the Overland Track  to walk towards Marions Lookout. Although this route is longer, it is much easier and gentler on the legs.

Dove Lake Boat Shed

Towards the end of your clockwise walk around Dove Lake , you will be greeted by a picturesque view of the famous Dove Lake Boat Shed.  

Located along the beautiful Dove Lake with Cradle Mountain as a backdrop, this picture-postcard view of the boatshed is truly rewarding after a long hike.

Conveniently, if you are pressed for time, you can take a 15-minute anticlockwise walk from Dove Lake Carpark, for a perfect photo of this charming boat shed .

There is abundant wildlife in Cradle Mountain.

You can easily spot echidnas along the walking tracks during the day.

Around dusk or dawn, wombats and wallabies will be out and about everywhere in Cradle Mountain. You can easily spot them by taking a leisure stroll near the Ranger Station.

Platypus can also be spotted from the rivers and lakes, around dusk or dawn.

Cradle Mountain is also home to the famous Tasmanian Devil, which you can get a close-up encounter with, from Devils @ Cradle Wildlife Park .

How to Get There

F rom the North West, it is a roughly 1-hour drive from Sheffield; and a 1.5-hour drive from Devenport and Burnie. 

From the West Coast, it is about 1.5 hours drive from Queenstown; and 2 hours drive from Strahan.

Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre

Here, y ou can get your park pass, shuttle bus ticket, and a free park map all sorted. The friendly staff can also provide you with a range of information on suggested activities and walking tracks within the park.

The Check-in counter for the Overland Track is located in the visitor centre as well. You can also find a souvenir store, restrooms, and a cafe in this visitor centre.

Entrance Fee

A valid national park pass is required to enter Cradle Mountain. This park pass will give you access to Cradle Mountain and its free shuttle bus service.

The park pass can be purchased from the visitor centre. It is AUD$25 per adult for a Daily Pass.

You can also purchase a Holiday Pass for AUD$80 per vehicle or AUD$40 per person instead. This Holiday Pass will be valid for 2 months, across all of Tasmania’s national parks.

Shuttle Bus

A shuttle bus service has been introduced to Cradle Mountain to protect and preserve this wonderful park. This service is free with a valid park pass.

It operates between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm from April to September, and 8:00 am to 6:00 pm from October to March.

The shuttle bus departs every 15 minutes from the visitor centre. It will also stop at the Ranger Station and Ronny Creek, before arriving at Dove Lake.

Private vehicle access is not permitted during shuttle bus operating hours. Currently, private vehicles are also not allowed to park at Dove Lake Carpark, due to ongoing construction. You can however park at Ronny Creek and walk around 2km to Dove Lake. This construction is estimated to finish by March 2022.

Where to Eat in Cradle Mountain

Restaurants and bars are available from all the hotels within Cradle Mountain. However, they are not all open to non-hotel guests.

Here is a list of dining options for non-hotel guests in Cradle Mountain:

• Elements Cafe near the visitor centre.

Where to Shop in Cradle Mountain

When it comes to groceries, the options are limited in Cradle Mountain.

There is a small gift shop near Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge. As the name suggests, it mainly sells souvenirs, with only limited basic supplies, snacks, and drinks available.

In terms of petrol, there is a 24 hours petrol station near Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, and it accepts cards only. However, for your peace of mind, make sure you fill up the tank before visiting.

Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain

There is a range of accommodations to choose from, within Cradle Mountain.

You can stay at hotels, such as Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge (higher price range) and Cradle Mountain Hotel (mid-range hotel); self-contained chalet at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village; or cabins at Discovery Parks and Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages.

Having said that, because of its prime location, the costs for accommodations within Cradle Mountain are generally more expensive than outside of the park.  If you don’t mind the extra commute to and from the park, many cheaper accommodations are available around Sheffield and Tullah.

However, driving on country roads at dusk or dawn can be challenging, especially when most of Tasmania’s wildlife is nocturnal.

If driving at dusk or dawn, please be very careful, slow down, and share the road.

• Check out accommodations in Tullah on  Booking.com –  40 minutes drive

Winter is the wettest month in Cradle Mountain, with snow commonly seen from July to September. Nonetheless, Cradle Mountain also get snow at any time of the year, even in December.

The weather also changes relatively quick and frequent in Tasmania’s alpine regions. Hence, be sure to prepare waterproof and windproof clothing with sturdy trekking shoes when visiting.

In addition, the views near Dove Lake are very weather dependent. If arriving on a cloudy day, you may not get much of a view even from the summit.

Attempting to hike up the summit can be very dangerous on wet and windy days as well.

Hence, it is always important to check the weather forecast, before heading up Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain Summit.

How Long to Spend in Cradle Mountain?

We stayed for 2 nights in Cradle Mountain, which I believe is an ideal length of stay.

With 2 nights, we had a full day to explore the longer tracks near Dove Lake. With the two half days, we used them to explore those shorter walks near the Ranger Station. At night time, we went on short walks around the Ranger Station and our hotel for wildlife spotting, which was very rewarding.

If interested, you can also join a night-time feeding tour at Devils @ Cradle, for a close encounter with the Tasmanian Devils.

Can You Visit Cradle Mountain in One Day? 

You can certainly visit Cradle Mountain in only a day. However, it may be a rushed trip and physically demanding.

There are different ways to visit Cradle Mountain for only a day.

You can visit those short walks near the Ranger Station for a taste of this wonderful park; or take a shuttle bus/ drive up to Dove Lake for a closer view of Cradle Mountain Summit +/- some short walks around Dove Lake.

If the summit is on your bucket list, you can also attempt the summit on your day trip to Cradle Mountain.

Having said that, it will be a long and steep climb up the summit, which requires tracking experience and a good fitness level. Be sure to also arrive early in the morning, and be prepared for a minimally 6-8 hours (return) long hike, from Dove Lake to the summit.

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I'm passionate about travel. I would like to use this platform to share my travel experiences. Please support me by subscribing to this blog. You can also find more travel related contents on my YouTube channel and Instagram. Thank you :)

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Where to Stay at Cradle Mountain: Best Hotels and Areas 2024

Cradle Mountain is one of the most naturally beautiful locations in Australia and a must-visit on any trip to Tasmania. To make your vacation planning easier, this guide will help you decide where to stay in Cradle Mountain during your Tasmania trip .

Here we’ve compiled a list of all the best places in and around Cradle Mountain. We’ll go through the areas that best suit travellers, whether you want something upscale or you want to tuck away and take in the natural surroundings.

Because of how remote and cold Cradle Mountain is, you want to know that your accommodation is going to be warm and cosy and preferably offer food. Fortunately, there are several options that tick those boxes.

In fact, most of the food options in the area are hotel restaurants (including Altitude, Hellyer’s and the Peppers Tavern) so you’ll likely end up at one of these hotels even if you aren’t staying there. That’s how we saw several of these properties.

Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

If you’re in a hurry, let’s uncover the best place to stay in Cradle Mountain. The most convenient area to stay in Cradle Mountain is near the visitor centre, on Cradle Mountain Road. 

Almost all the hotels in this guide are in that area, although you will often find Cradle Mountain accommodation advertised that is further away, closer to Sheffield or Lake St Clair. While these options can be cheaper, you will end up driving a long way to the start of the hikes or to see any of the other Cradle Mountain attractions.

Cradle Mountain Hotel: Overall Best Place To Stay In Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain Hotel is where we stayed on our first visit to Cradle Mountain and we absolutely loved it. It’s a 4-star hotel that feels like it could be 5-star without the huge price tag.

If you want to spot wildlife at Cradle Mountain then this hotel is the best place to stay because it has a boardwalk out the back that loops through bush where you can see wallabies and sometimes wombats. We even saw a wombat on the side of the hotel driveway.

Cradle Mountain Hotel has the Altitude Restaurant and Bar on site which is one of the better food options in the area. Serving a mix of pub-style food in the lounge bar and fancier a la carte in the restaurant.

There are also two more lounge areas onsite, complete with cosy fireplaces to warm up post-hike, a gallery, small store (for buying extra warm clothing) and a spa.

The décor is a bit generic compared to Peppers but the restaurant and lounges have great views over the forest.

There isn’t a big difference in room types and even the standard rooms are fairly spacious. Prices start at just over $200 per night.

Tiny Escapes Cradle Valley: Best Off The Grid Place To Stay In Cradle Mountain

Tiny Escapes are the newest Cradle Mountain accommodation option and offer a unique experience for anyone looking to really immerse themselves in nature and not see any other travellers.

Tiny Escapes are a collection of tiny homes, all rented like Airbnb where you have the whole property and some surrounding grounds to yourself.

These are a great option if you are planning a romantic getaway to cradle mountain as they offer a lot of privacy and are the perfect size for a couple.

The Tiny Escapes are further away from Cradle Mountain itself than the other places in this guide so they are not the most central place to stay and you will have to drive a bit longer to get to the start of most of the hikes. However, the difference is not significant.

Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village: Best Place To Stay In Cradle Mountain For Families

The Wilderness Village has one of the best locations as it’s walking distance from the Visitor Centre where you can jump on the bus to the trailheads.

The accommodation in the village is mostly in stand—alone chalets which all have their own kitchen and lounge area, making it a great option for longer stays where you want to self-cater or for family groups.

The chalets come in a range of configurations from twin/double to two-bedroom to suit groups of different sizes.

The onsite restaurant Hellyers is known as the best fine dining at Cradle Mountain. They offer set menus with lots of Tasmanian produce.

Prices are between Cradle Mountain Hotel and Peppers, starting around $350 per night with a premium for the spa bath cottage.

Peppers Lodge: Best Luxury Accomodation In Cradle Mountain

Every iconic tourist location has a luxury hotel and Peppers Lodge is it for Cradle Mountain. If you’ve seen Instagram photos from Cradle Mountain, quite likely some of them were taken here.

The interior is kitted out like an old-school hunting lodge with lots of wood, leather armchairs and fireplaces, which feels like a welcome respite from the outdoors. 

Some rooms are located in the main building, where the tavern restaurant also is, while others are separate chalets dotted around the grounds.

For a real splurge, book the King Billy Suite which has a private outdoor hot tub.

The Lodge is surrounded by lush forest, streams and even a small waterfall with most of the rooms looking out on these views. It’s also the starting point for the Enchanted Walk, one of the most popular walks at Cradle Mountain. 

Even if you don’t decide to stay at Peppers, it’s worth making a booking at the Alpine Spa to treat yourself after a day of hiking. The spa is famous for the hot pool looking out over the forest where you can relax with champagne and strawberries.

Waldheim Cabins: Best Place To Stay In Cradle Mountain For Hiking and Big Groups

The Waldheim Cabins are the only accommodation located actually in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This means that while everyone else has to head out to their hotel at the end of the day, Waldheim guests get to spend the night amongst the incredible scenery.

The eight cabins are operated by the Tasmania Parks Service and are a very affordable option, costing less than $25 per person per night.

Facilities are fairly basic and shared between all the cabins. There are hot showers and flush toilets though so you aren’t roughing it too much!

The Waldheim cabins are the best Cradle Mountain accommodation option for large groups or big families because the cabins each fit 4 to 8 people in bunk bed configurations.

As you would expect, the cabins are in very high demand and given the limited supply, they need to be booked well in advance. You can book online through Parks Tasmania .

What to know about staying inside the Cradle Mountain Park

If you are staying at Waldheim cabins you will need to buy a Parks Pass from the visitor centre or online. It costs $25 per person for 24 hours or there are annual options.

Access to the cabins is walk-in, you can take the free shuttle bus or drive as far as the carpark but will still need to cover a few hundred metres on foot so it’s not a good option for anyone with reduced accessibility.

Discovery Park: Best Budget Accomodation in Cradle Mountain

Discovery Parks is the only place to stay with a campervan in Cradle Mountain. It’s a holiday park like many you will find if you’re campervanning in Tasmania with a mix of powered sites (from $49) and unpowered sites (from $35). These are more expensive than similar sites elsewhere in Tasmania, but the location is unbeatable. Camping sites need to be booked directly.

As well as camping sites, Discovery Park also has a few cabins on offer and hostel-style dorm rooms which are the cheapest accommodation at Cradle Mountain, perfect for budget travellers and backpackers.

You can book these cabins through Booking.com . Dorm beds start at $44 while cabins range up to $200.

Discovery Park Cradle Mountain has a full range of campsite facilities including a camp kitchen, bathrooms, laundry and even a small kiosk with some food and emergency supplies for purchase.

If you are taking a van, it is recommended to fill up with water before you go because water is limited onsite.

How Much Does It Cost to Stay in a Hotel In Cradle Mountain?

Cradle Mountain is not a cheap destination, to be totally honest. But the standard of accommodation is really high, so you are getting what you pay for.

Outside Discovery Parks and the Waldheim Cabins, all the accommodation is high-end so you can expect to stay $200+ per night (Australian dollars) for a basic room in a hotel in Cradle Mountain. Even then, you will want to book well in advance (6 months is ideal) to get a good deal.

Can you camp overnight at Cradle Mountain?

Free camping is not permitted at Cradle Mountain, even if you have a self-contained vehicle.

The only camping that is allowed is at Discovery Parks and the Waldheim Cabins which are both paid options and require pre-booking (more detail above).

If you are desperate to free camp then check the  Parks Tasmania website  for locations within driving distance of Cradle Mountain.

Best Months to Travel to Cradle Mountain

As one of the most popular places to visit in Tasmania, it’s important to consider weather patterns and events before booking your trip.

Weather in Cradle Mountain

The best time to visit Cradle Mountain is when the weather and atmosphere are clear, cool, and sunny. 

Since temperatures in Cradle Mountain never reach the highs experienced in other parts of Australia, summer (December-February) is a great time to visit if you want to spend lots of time outdoors. Average temperatures are between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. 

If you can’t make it during this time of year, we recommend going for shoulder season in spring or autumn. 

It’s best to avoid winter in Cradle Mountain as roads are often closed due to snow and ice so you risk being unable to get there. 

Find tips on driving to Cradle Mountain in the Launceston to Cradle Mountain Road Trip Guide .

Things To Do In Cradle Mountain 

There are lots of things to do in Cradle Mountain, mostly centred around nature and wildlife. You can find lots of ideas in our Cradle Mountain Day Trip Guide including the best short hikes.

In Short: Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to stay in Cradle Mountain. Above all, you can’t go wrong by staying at Cradle Mountain Hotel. But, if you’re looking for more unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences in the area, check out Tiny Escapes.

While most travellers limit their Tasmania holiday to the big three of Hobart , Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park but we recommend heading south if you have the time to check out Bruny Island and the Huon Valley .

Happy travelling!

Australia Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Pre-book your tickets to attractions on Klook
• Find awesome day tours on Viator
• Save on Sydney attractions with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your Australian dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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Explore Cradle Mountain, Tasmania, Australia with this travel guide

Cradle Mountain serves as a stunning centerpiece in Tasmania's wilderness, forming a crucial part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. This natural sanctuary is celebrated for its rugged beauty and offers visitors a chance to delve into a variety of landscapes. Ancient rainforests, alpine heaths, glacial lakes, and jagged mountain peaks create a mosaic of terrains for explorers to discover.

Trek the overland track

Embark on the Overland Track, a renowned 65-kilometer trek through Tasmania's pristine wilderness. This six-day expedition leads adventurers across Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park's diverse landscapes. Experience the raw beauty of nature as you hike through ancient forests and alpine plains, all the while observing Tasmania's unique wildlife in their natural habitat. This journey promises to be a memorable adventure with each step.

Encounter native wildlife

Cradle Mountain is a haven for diverse native wildlife. Visitors often delight in sightings of wombats, pademelons, and echidnas along the park's boardwalks and trails. For the best chances of observing these creatures, venture out in the early morning or during dusk. It's important to maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife and to contribute to conservation efforts by staying on the designated paths.

Discover Dove Lake circuit

Dove Lake, nestled at Cradle Mountain's base, presents a tranquil six-kilometer loop. This easy walk, open to all fitness levels, takes about two hours to traverse. As you journey around the lake, enjoy the breathtaking backdrop of Cradle Mountain's peaks. The path also winds past gentle streams and through the timeless Ballroom Forest, offering a peaceful escape into nature's embrace.

Visit Waldheim chalet

Waldheim Chalet is a historical site where Gustav Weindorfer, the pioneer of tourism for the area, once lived. The chalet offers visitors a look into the early conservation efforts and what life was like in Tasmania's remote wilderness. It's a key destination for understanding the history and dedication that contributed to the preservation of Cradle Mountain's natural wonders.

Capture alpine landscapes

Cradle Mountain is a treasure trove for photographers, with light that transforms the landscape into stunning scenes. Capture nature's beauty at key locations such as Marion's Lookout, offering panoramic views, and the Enchanted Walk for close-up forest imagery. The early morning light casts a special glow, providing an exceptional opportunity to photograph the area's majestic allure.

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