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4.8
·131 reviews·Cradle Mountain, Australia

Iconic Tasmanian wilderness with dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and lush rainforests. Perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Tasmanian wilderness with dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and lush rainforests. Perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

4.8
(131 reviews)

"Easy walks, stunning scenery, and wildlife encounters make Cradle Mountain unforgettable!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Shuttle Bus is Key

You can't drive to most trailheads after 8 AM. Shuttle buses are essential for accessing the park's main attractions. :bus:

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed

Even easy walks can be muddy. Wear comfortable, waterproof hiking boots for the best experience. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pencil Pine Falls Walk

Pencil Pine Falls Walk

Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre

A gentle 1.1 km loop through moss-covered forests alongside Pencil Pine Creek. Easy for families, with chances to spot wallabies and wombats.

Dove Lake Circuit

Dove Lake Circuit

Dove Lake Car Park

Iconic 6 km circuit offering breathtaking views of Cradle Mountain and glacial lake. A must-do for stunning scenery and photography.

Cradle Summit Track

Cradle Summit Track

Summit Track Trailhead

Challenging 8.5 km return hike to the summit for panoramic views. Requires good fitness and weather-appropriate gear.

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Planning Your Visit

Shuttle Bus Essential

Parking at Cradle Mountain is restricted after 8 AM. Plan to use the shuttle bus service from the Visitor Centre to access most trailheads. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.

Weather Preparedness

Tasmania's weather is notoriously unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy walking shoes, even for short walks. Conditions can change rapidly, impacting your experience and safety.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, beautiful colors
Crowd
Low
When
Spring weekdays
Why
Less busy, wildflowers bloom
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Walks in Tasmania 🌿 #fy #foryou #fypシ #travel #australia #tasmania #cradlemountain #forrest #traveltiktok #fyp @Discover Tasmania
@brooke.lott
71.7K likes • 536.9K views

🚗 Shuttle Bus is Key

You can't drive to most trailheads after 8 AM. Shuttle buses are essential for accessing the park's main attractions. :bus:

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed

Even easy walks can be muddy. Wear comfortable, waterproof hiking boots for the best experience. :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

Cradle mountain in 48 hours (with 3 kids under 9) - any tips

reddit.com

Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre - Parking?

🧥 Pack for All Weather

Tasmania's weather changes fast! Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and a hat, no matter the season. :cloud:

📸 Wildlife Spotting

Pademelons and wallabies are common on shorter walks. Keep a respectful distance and enjoy the sightings! :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Find me something to do!

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Shuttle Bus is Key

You can't drive to most trailheads after 8 AM. Shuttle buses are essential for accessing the park's main attractions. :bus:

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed

Even easy walks can be muddy. Wear comfortable, waterproof hiking boots for the best experience. :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Pack for All Weather

Tasmania's weather changes fast! Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and a hat, no matter the season. :cloud:

📸 Wildlife Spotting

Pademelons and wallabies are common on shorter walks. Keep a respectful distance and enjoy the sightings! :camerawithflash:

💧 Bring Your Own Water

There are limited water refill stations. Stay hydrated by carrying enough water for your hikes. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(131 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking natural beauty and accessible walking trails at Cradle Mountain. The chance to see wildlife up close is a major highlight, making it a memorable experience for families and nature lovers alike. Some find the shuttle bus system a bit inconvenient, and weather can be a factor, but overall, it's considered a must-visit.

"This is one of several short walks that you can make from the Interpretation Centre within the Cradle Mountain National Park. It is also noted as one of the 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania. The trail is a 1.1 km loop trail that starts and finished at the Centre.

You will walk alongside the Pencil Pine Creek and lush, dense and moss covered forest which is beautiful, especially the stretch on the north side of the river. We encountered a handful of pademelons and wallabies along the boardwalk. They are very comfortable with humans so you can get fairly close to them to take pictures. The track is very easy, mostly flat and suitable for families with small children."

Brad

"Beautiful little walk - easy for families and kids, and even in bad weather. Even saw some pademelons and wombats!"

Matt Ho

"A leisurely walk through some of the Cradle mountain habitat; with occasional wildlife sightings."

Adie Klein

What People Like

Stunning mountain scenery
Abundant wildlife sightings
Easy, well-maintained walks

What People Dislike

Shuttle bus dependency
Unpredictable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is by car, but parking within the park is restricted after 8 AM. You'll need to park at the Visitor Centre and take the shuttle bus. Shuttle services also run from Launceston and Hobart, which can be a long journey but convenient if you don't have a car. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. This is where you'll need to leave your car if you arrive after 8 AM and plan to use the shuttle bus service to explore the park. Reddit

No, private vehicle access to Dove Lake is restricted during peak hours. You must use the shuttle bus service from the Visitor Centre to reach the Dove Lake Car Park. Reddit

Shuttle bus operating hours vary seasonally but generally run frequently throughout the day, starting from early morning. It's best to check the official Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website for the most up-to-date schedule. Reddit

Yes, numerous tour operators offer day trips and multi-day tours to Cradle Mountain from Launceston, Hobart, and other Tasmanian cities. These often include transport and guided walks. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an entry fee for Cradle Mountain National Park. You can purchase day passes or multi-day passes online or at the Visitor Centre. Reddit

Entry fees vary for individuals, vehicles, and families. Check the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website for current pricing. Booking online in advance is recommended. Reddit

Generally, Cradle Mountain National Park requires an entry fee. However, it's worth checking the official park website for any special event days or promotions that might offer free entry. Reddit

Shuttle bus tickets are typically included with your park entry pass or can be purchased as part of a package. Confirm this when booking your park entry. Reddit

The park entry fee grants you access to the national park, including many of the walking trails and scenic lookouts. The shuttle bus service is also usually covered by this fee. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The Pencil Pine Falls Walk is a fantastic 1.1 km loop, perfect for families. The Waldheim Chalet to Dove Lake walk is also popular, offering beautiful lake views. Reddit

Absolutely! You have a good chance of spotting pademelons, wallabies, and wombats, especially on the shorter, flatter trails like the Pencil Pine Falls Walk. Reddit

Yes, many walks are very family-friendly. The Pencil Pine Falls Walk is mostly flat and has boardwalk sections, making it easy for little legs. Reddit

Dress in layers! Bring a waterproof and windproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, and a hat. The weather can change very quickly. TikTok

Yes, there are toilets and basic facilities at the Visitor Centre and at key points like the Dove Lake Car Park. Plan your stops accordingly. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Dove Lake offers iconic reflections of Cradle Mountain, especially at sunrise or sunset. The Pencil Pine Falls Walk provides lush, mossy forest shots. TikTok

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and potential for golden hour. Sunrise over Dove Lake is magical. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions or capturing water movement. Don't forget a waterproof bag for your gear! Instagram

Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Use a zoom lens to get close-up shots without disturbing the animals. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cradle Mountain is surprisingly family-friendly! The Pencil Pine Falls Walk is a must-do, being a short, easy loop with boardwalk sections that are great for little legs. You'll likely spot wallabies and pademelons, which are always a hit with children. Reddit

Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and be prepared for changeable weather by bringing layers and rain gear. The shuttle bus system is also easy for families to navigate. Consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid larger crowds and make the experience more relaxed for everyone. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

Cradle Mountain is a fantastic destination for solo travelers looking for stunning natural beauty and a sense of peace. The well-maintained trails, especially the shorter ones like the Pencil Pine Falls Walk, are safe and easy to navigate. Reddit

Joining a guided tour or taking the shuttle bus can be great opportunities to meet other travelers. Don't forget to bring a good book or journal to enjoy during quieter moments, and always let someone know your hiking plans. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Cradle Mountain is a dream. The Dove Lake Circuit offers iconic shots of the mountain reflected in the water, especially magical during sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram

Don't miss the Pencil Pine Falls Walk for capturing the ethereal beauty of moss-covered rainforests and cascading water. Remember to pack a tripod for low-light conditions and a wide-angle lens to capture the grand landscapes. Be prepared for all weather conditions, as dramatic skies can add incredible mood to your photos. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Shuttle System

Understanding the shuttle bus system is crucial for a smooth visit to Cradle Mountain. Private vehicle access to popular trailheads like Dove Lake is restricted after 8 AM to manage congestion and protect the environment. The shuttle service operates from the main Visitor Centre, providing regular transport to key locations within the park. Reddit

It's highly recommended to purchase your shuttle bus tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your spot. The buses are frequent, but they can fill up. Familiarize yourself with the shuttle route map and timetable available at the Visitor Centre or online to plan your day effectively. This system ensures that everyone can access the stunning scenery without the stress of finding parking. Reddit

Key takeaway: Arrive early if you wish to drive to trailheads, or be prepared to utilize the efficient shuttle bus service. This system is designed to enhance the visitor experience by reducing traffic and preserving the natural beauty of Cradle Mountain. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters

Cradle Mountain National Park is a haven for diverse wildlife, offering visitors memorable encounters. The most commonly spotted animals include pademelons and wallabies, often seen grazing peacefully on the grassy areas and along walking tracks. They are generally quite accustomed to human presence, allowing for close-up viewing and photography, but it's important to always maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding them. Reddit

Keep an eye out for wombats, particularly during dawn and dusk, as they are more active during these cooler parts of the day. The Pencil Pine Falls Walk is a particularly good spot for wildlife sightings. Remember that these are wild animals, and while they may seem docile, it's best to observe them from a safe distance and never attempt to touch or corner them. Reddit

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars for better viewing of birds and other shy creatures. Always store food securely and dispose of litter properly to avoid attracting wildlife to picnic areas. Reddit

Best Walks for All Levels

Cradle Mountain offers a variety of walking tracks catering to all fitness levels, ensuring everyone can experience its natural beauty. For a short, easy stroll, the Pencil Pine Falls Walk is a 1.1 km loop that winds through lush rainforest and features a beautiful waterfall. It's perfect for families with young children and those seeking a gentle introduction to the park's flora. Reddit

For a moderate challenge with rewarding views, the Dove Lake Circuit is a 6 km loop that circumnavigates the stunning Dove Lake, offering iconic vistas of Cradle Mountain. This track involves some uneven terrain and ascents but is manageable for most reasonably fit individuals. Reddit

More adventurous hikers can tackle the Cradle Summit Track, an 8.5 km return journey to the peak of Cradle Mountain. This is a strenuous climb requiring good physical condition, sturdy hiking boots, and preparedness for rapidly changing weather. The panoramic views from the summit are unparalleled, making the effort worthwhile for experienced hikers. Reddit