Location:
Glacier Rock is located 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 car, and board the mandatory shuttle bus into the park. Get off at the Dove Lake stop, where the short walk to Glacier Rock begins.
How to get there:
From the Dove Lake car park, follow the well-signed Dove Lake Circuit Track clockwise. Glacier Rock is only a few minutes from the start of the trail. A short side path leads up onto the rock itself, offering sweeping views across the lake.
Hike length:
Approximately 1 km return from the Dove Lake car park, taking around 15–25 minutes, depending on how long you stay to enjoy the viewpoint.
Difficulty Level:
Easy — the track is wide, well-formed, and suitable for most visitors. The final steps onto Glacier Rock are slightly uneven granite, but still accessible for most walkers.
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:
Glacier Rock is a striking, polished granite slab carved smooth by ancient glacial movement thousands of years ago. From the top, you’ll get one of the best panoramic views of Dove Lake, Cradle Mountain’s peaks, and the surrounding alpine vegetation.
Interpretive signs explain the geological history of the area, making it a great stop for anyone interested in the region’s natural past. Early morning light and calm conditions often produce perfect reflections across Dove Lake — an ideal time for photography.
Glacier Rock is part of the full Dove Lake Circuit, but even as a short standalone walk, it offers stunning scenery with minimal effort. It’s a must-see viewpoint for any visit to Cradle Mountain.