Location:

The Dove Lake Boatshed Viewpoint sits on the shores of Dove Lake within Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. To reach it, drive to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, park your vehicle, and take the mandatory shuttle bus into the park. The shuttle drops you directly at the Dove Lake car park, and from there it’s an easy lakeside walk to the iconic boatshed.

How to get there:

From the Dove Lake shuttle stop, follow the wide, well-signed Dove Lake Circuit Track. The boatshed is only a few minutes’ walk along the lake’s edge. The track is suitable for all visitors and offers stunning first glimpses of Cradle Mountain as you approach the viewpoint.

Hike length:

Roughly 1 km return from the Dove Lake car park to the Boatshed Viewpoint, taking about 15–25 minutes depending on how long you stay for photos.

Difficulty Level:

Easy — the path is well-maintained, mostly flat, and suitable for all ages. Some short boardwalk sections may be damp, but overall the walk is very accessible.

Dogs allowed:

No, dogs are not permitted inside Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair 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:

The walk to the Dove Lake Boatshed follows one of Tasmania’s most picturesque lakefront paths, surrounded by alpine vegetation, buttongrass, and the dramatic backdrop of Cradle Mountain’s jagged peaks. As you round the shoreline, the historic 1940s wooden boatshed comes into view — one of the most photographed spots in Tasmania.

The boatshed sits peacefully on the water’s edge, perfectly framing the mountain behind it. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for calm reflections across the lake. In winter, snow on the peaks makes the scene even more breathtaking.

The viewpoint is part of the full 6 km Dove Lake Circuit, but even if you’re not completing the entire loop, the short walk to the boatshed is an absolute must-do. It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding scenic stops in the Cradle Mountain region.

Keep in mind that this is one of Tasmania's most famous photospots and therefore it can get very busy. To avoid crowds try to avoid peak season or visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.