Cradle Mountain’s jagged peaks are one of the most recognisable images of Tasmania’s wilderness. Cradle Mountain is at the northern end of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, and surrounded by smooth glacial lakes, ancient rainforest and distinctive alpine vegetation.
Take one of the many short walks in the area to gain a full appreciation of Cradle’s magic. Stroll from cascading rivers to dense, old-growth rainforest in just 20 minutes on the Enchanted Walk; walk the easy two-hour circuit of Dove Lake or spend the day tackling Cradle Mountain’s summit.
Cradle Mountain is also the starting point of Tasmania’s famous Overland Track, a six-day, 65 km walk ending at the northern end of Lake St Clair. Guided walks are available.
Australia’s only deciduous tree abounds here. Fagus, also known as deciduous beech, is endemic to Tasmania and has a magnificent autumn display ranging through gold to deep red from late April to May.
A shuttle bus to Dove Lake departs from the Visitor Centre each day throughout the year.
Cradle Mountain is a 2.5-hour drive (144 km) west of Launceston and a 1.5-hour drive (83 km) from Devonport.