Location:
Cradle Mountain is located within Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park in north-west Tasmania. The main access points are Ronny Creek and the visitor centre at Dove Lake, both easily reachable by car from the Cradle Mountain Road. Parking is available at both trailheads. During opening hours of the visitor center you can only take the shuttle bus into the park. The tickets are included in the parks pass.
Hike length & Difficulty Levels:
Cradle Mountain offers a variety of hikes suitable for all levels of walkers:
Dove Lake Circuit: 6 km return, easy, 2–3 hours. A mostly flat, well-formed track circling Dove Lake with stunning views of Cradle Mountain reflected in the water. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Marion’s Lookout: 6.5–7 km return from Ronny Creek, moderate, 2.5–3 hours. Includes a short steep section near the summit with chains to assist. Offers panoramic views of Dove Lake, Crater Lake, and surrounding peaks.
Cradle Mountain Summit: 12 km return, challenging, 6–8 hours. Steep, rocky, and exposed in places, leading to the summit at 1,545 m with 360-degree alpine views. Recommended for experienced hikers only.
Marions Lookout + Dove Lake Circuit Combination: 8–9 km, moderate, 3–4 hours. Start at Ronny Creek or Dove Lake, visit Marion’s Lookout, then continue along Dove Lake for a scenic loop.
Enchanted Walk: 20–30 min return, easy, boardwalk trail through rainforest and wetlands, ideal for families and nature lovers.
(You can find more information on these hikes if you filter for hikes in this Guide)
Dogs allowed:
No, dogs are not permitted in the national park.
Entry Fees:
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park requires a visitor pass. Daily entry costs AUD $28 per adult and AUD $14 per child. Children under 5 enter free. A 2-month holiday pass is also available for AUD $55 per adult and AUD $27.50 per child, which is ideal if you plan to explore multiple trails and spend more time in the park.
More information:
Cradle Mountain offers something for every hiker, from short nature walks to full-day alpine adventures. Tracks wind through temperate rainforest, alpine heathlands, and alongside crystal-clear lakes. Wildlife sightings of wombats, wallabies, and pademelons are common along many trails.
Hikers should be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially on alpine tracks like the summit. Proper footwear, layers and sufficient water are essential.
