Cradle Mountain Dove Lake
Tasmania's jewel, a protected rainforest and alpine wonderland with iconic peaks and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, longer days
Cradle Mountain Dove Lake
Best Time
Clearer skies, longer days
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tasmania's jewel, a protected rainforest and alpine wonderland with iconic peaks and abundant wildlife.
"One of my favourite places in the world! Stunning scenery and diverse walks."
Book Shuttle & Entry Online
Secure your park entry and shuttle bus tickets in advance online to avoid queues and ensure access. :admission_tickets:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be uneven and wet. Good grip and ankle support are essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dove Lake Circuit
Dove Lake
Iconic loop with stunning reflections of Cradle Mountain. Easy to moderate walk.
Marion's Lookout
From Ronny Creek
Panoramic 360-degree views of Cradle Mountain and glacial lakes. Rewarding climb.
Wombat Spotting at Ronny Creek
Ronny Creek
Prime location for spotting wombats in their natural habitat, especially during daylight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Shuttle Bus is Key
Weather Can Change Fast
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Shuttle & Entry Online
Secure your park entry and shuttle bus tickets in advance online to avoid queues and ensure access. :admission_tickets:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be uneven and wet. Good grip and ankle support are essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weather
Tasmanian weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sun protection. :umbrella:
Start at Ronny Creek
Less crowded than Dove Lake car park, offering diverse walks and better chances for wildlife sightings. :wombat:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Shuttle & Entry Online
Secure your park entry and shuttle bus tickets in advance online to avoid queues and ensure access. :admission_tickets:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be uneven and wet. Good grip and ankle support are essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weather
Tasmanian weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sun protection. :umbrella:
Start at Ronny Creek
Less crowded than Dove Lake car park, offering diverse walks and better chances for wildlife sightings. :wombat:
Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 days to explore the various trails and enjoy the scenery without rushing. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cradle Mountain for its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife encounters, particularly wombats. The stunning alpine scenery and iconic reflections are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences. Some find the weather unpredictable and dining options limited within the park.
"Cradle Mountain National Park is a gorgeous place to visit. Once you exit pass the visitor centre you can take a bus into the National Park. I like getting off at Ronny Creek and walking from there - eventually ending up at the Dove Lake car park. If you are doing Marion’s Lookout or Kitchen hut I recommend going from Ronny. Not only are there less people but the climbs are not as steep and the landscape is so diverse. One of my favourite places in the world!"
ruth rowlands
"Stunning scenery. Unfortunately the weather wasn’t being friendly to see Cradle Mountain but the surrounding area is beautiful.
You can either drive in early but cannot leave in your own vehicle until late afternoon.
We caught the bus from the visitor centre and disembarked at Ronnys Creek. The walk up to the historic Waldheim Chalet took about 40 mins return.
The best spot to see wombats in the wild during daylight."
brian lord
"Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a breathtaking destination offering diverse hiking trails, stunning alpine scenery, and abundant wildlife. The Dove Lake Circuit provides iconic views, while the Overland Track offers a challenging adventure. A must-visit for nature enthusiasts exploring Tasmania"
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to drive to the Visitor Centre, where you'll park your car and take the mandatory shuttle bus into the park. Private vehicles have limited access. The shuttle operates frequently and is included with your park entry fee. It's about a 2-hour drive from Launceston or Hobart.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Visitor Centre. This is where you'll leave your car for the duration of your visit to the core park area.
During peak times, private vehicles are restricted from accessing the main park road beyond the Visitor Centre. You must use the shuttle bus. Check the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website for current access restrictions.
The park shuttle bus is the primary mode of transport within the park. It stops at key trailheads and points of interest, allowing you to hop on and off as you please.
Yes, numerous tour operators offer day trips and multi-day tours from Hobart and Launceston, which include transportation and often guided walks. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a park entry fee is required for all visitors. This fee typically covers 24 hours or can be purchased as a multi-day pass. The shuttle bus fee is often bundled with entry or is a separate small charge.
Park entry fees vary, but expect to pay around AUD $15-20 per adult for a 24-hour pass. Multi-day passes are also available. It's best to check the official Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website for current pricing.
You can purchase park entry tickets and shuttle passes at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. Booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
The park itself is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, the Visitor Centre and shuttle bus services operate on specific schedules, typically from early morning to late afternoon.
If you have a valid Tasmania Parks Pass (e.g., a holiday pass or annual pass), it usually covers your park entry fees. Check the terms of your pass to confirm.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Dove Lake Circuit (2-3 hours, easy) offers iconic views. For more challenging hikes, consider Marion's Lookout (2-3 hours return, moderate) or the Overland Track (multi-day, strenuous). Shorter walks like the Waldheim Chalet walk are also lovely. +1
Yes, Cradle Mountain offers several family-friendly walks, including parts of the Dove Lake Circuit and shorter trails near the Visitor Centre. The shuttle bus makes it easy to access different starting points.
You have a good chance of spotting wombats, especially around Ronny Creek. Wallabies, echidnas, and various bird species are also common. Keep a respectful distance and never feed the wildlife.
Pack layers of clothing, a waterproof jacket and pants, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, plenty of water, and snacks. A camera is a must!
Mobile reception is very limited and unreliable within Cradle Mountain National Park. It's best to download offline maps and inform someone of your hiking plans before you go.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options within the park itself, primarily at the lodges and hotels. The Visitor Centre has a small cafe. It's advisable to pack your own food and drinks for picnics.
Absolutely! There are designated picnic areas with tables and stunning views. Packing a picnic is a great way to enjoy the scenery and save money.
The nearest town with significant grocery stores is Sheffield, about a 30-minute drive away. It's best to stock up on supplies before you arrive at the park.
Lodges like Peppers Cradle Mountain Resort and Cradle Mountain Hotel offer restaurants and bars with varying menus. Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak season.
Dining at the lodges can be on the pricier side. Bringing your own food for picnics or preparing meals if you're staying in self-contained accommodation is a more budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
Dove Lake offers classic reflections of the mountain. Marion's Lookout provides panoramic vistas. Ronny Creek is great for wildlife and misty morning shots. The Waldheim Chalet area also has charming scenes.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting, but be mindful of shuttle times and weather. Mid-morning can be good for clear views, while misty mornings add atmosphere.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is essential for low-light conditions and long exposures. Don't forget extra batteries!
While not widely advertised, some local guides or photography enthusiasts may offer private tours. It's worth inquiring at the Visitor Centre or local accommodation providers.
The best spot is along the Dove Lake Circuit, particularly on calm mornings when the water is still. Patience is key, as reflections can be fleeting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider shorter walks like the path to the Waldheim Chalet for a less strenuous outing. Ensure everyone has comfortable walking shoes and is dressed in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Downloading offline maps is a good idea as mobile reception is spotty.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider staying in nearby towns like Sheffield or Mole Creek in more affordable accommodation options, or look for campsites if you're equipped. Many of the most rewarding experiences, like hiking and wildlife spotting, are free once you've paid your park entry fee.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss Ronny Creek for wildlife photography, particularly for wombats. Bring a tripod for low-light conditions and consider a telephoto lens for wildlife. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather, which can create dramatic lighting conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails for Every Level
For the truly adventurous, the Overland Track is a world-renowned multi-day trek, spanning approximately 65 kilometers. This challenging hike requires significant planning, fitness, and booking in advance, offering an immersive wilderness experience. Shorter, accessible walks like the path to the historic Waldheim Chalet are also available, perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst the ancient rainforest. Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before setting out, and ensure you have appropriate gear.
Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for wallabies, often seen bounding through the grasslands, and the spiny echidna, which can sometimes be spotted foraging. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the variety of native species, including currawongs and rosellas. Remember to maintain a safe and respectful distance from all wildlife, avoid feeding them, and never disturb their environment. Observing these creatures in their pristine surroundings is a truly special part of the Cradle Mountain experience.
Photography Opportunities
For wildlife photography, Ronny Creek is your best bet for capturing wombats and wallabies. Misty mornings can add an ethereal quality to your shots, while the vibrant autumn colours of the native Fagus trees provide stunning seasonal opportunities. A wide-angle lens is ideal for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions and to capture those perfect reflections.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit