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