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10 Useful Things To Know Before Visiting Cradle Mountain National Park

17 March 2019.

Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain National Park is a wonderland of spongey moss-carpeted floors, rolling buttongrass moors, scenic boardwalks, curious wildlife and the kind of trees that play host to entire worlds of budding, miniature greenery.

This beautiful national park was my absolute favourite stop in Tasmania and if you love being out in nature it should be an essential stop on your Tasmania itinerary as well.

These are a few useful things to know before visiting Cradle Mountain National Park to help you prepare for your trip and preserve this rare pocket of pristine wilderness while you’re there.

* This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

1  |  You’ll need to pay the national park entry fee

Like all national parks in Tasmania, you’ll need to pay the entry fee on arrival at the Visitor Centre which includes access to the Cradle Mountain National Park shuttle.

The entrance fee is $16.50 per adult per day, but if you’re travelling in a group or visiting more than one park in Tasmania, it’s often more economical to buy the Holiday Pass which costs $30 per person or $60 per vehicle and is valid for 2 months (prices as of January 2019). Check here for more info.

2  |  Prepare for all kinds of weather…

I visited Tasmania in early January – the heart of summer – and despite the wonderfully balmy temperatures along the east coast that called for daily swims and lazing in the sunshine, I was welcomed to Cradle Mountain with 5-degree weather and torrential rain.

Even if you’re visiting in summer (and especially if you are in winter), you’ll want to come fully prepared for wet, chilly conditions. Seriously, it rains about three quarters of the year up here and a summer bout of snow is not all that unusual (yes, snow in Australia… in summer, who knew!)

Layers are key so be sure to pack these essentials at any time of year: a thermal base layer (like this merino wool one ), warm fleece or puffer jacket and durable waterproof jacket. In winter when average temperatures hover around zero degrees, a scarf, beanie and gloves are all a good idea.

Given the area receives an absolute drenching of rain, a solid pair of waterproof hiking boots and hiking socks are also the way to go. I love my Scarpa Hiking Boots which are lightweight, water resistant and super comfortable, along with these Larry Adler Merino Wool Blend Socks , though these ones from Darn Tough  are another good option.

DON’T MISS:   MY ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE CRADLE MOUNTAIN WALKS

3  |  … but take advantage of it when it’s good.

Between the plumes of mist and bearded trees, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d just stumbled into Middle Earth, and while the gloomy skies actually lend rather well to these fairytale landscapes, if you’re here to hike, you’ll want to take full advantage of the weather when things begin to clear up.

Low slung cloud and heavy rain can make the Cradle Mountain summit hike virtually impossible, whereas tracing the lower ridgelines might put you straight into a whiteout, stealing away the spectacular views.

If your plans aren’t fixed and you’ve got some flexibility in your itinerary, don’t hesitate to make a beeline for Cradle Mountain if it looks like you’ll have a clear window, otherwise, keep an eye on the weather and leave the clearest days for the bigger hikes. Psst… don’t miss this guide to the best Cradle Mountain walks .

4  |  Respect The Wildlife And Keep Them Wild

Whether you’re driving or walking, Cradle Mountain provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Around dusk, wombats emerge from their burrows in full force, as do wallabies and pademelons, and it’s not unusual to find them waddling across the road in a slight daze from their daytime slumber in search of an evening meal. If you’re behind the wheel, travelling on a winding road at the 40km/h speed limit, this can still take you by surprise, so be sure to keep an eye out for anything ferreting about on the roadside and always be prepared to stop.

Out on the trails, you’ll more than likely see the full collection of Aussie cuties – echidna, pademelons, wallabies, wombats and, if you’re really lucky, the elusive platypus. In fact, we were lucky enough to see these every single day at Cradle Mountain and even caught a brief glimpse of a platypus diving about in the river.

Generally, the animals will keep their distance so please repect that and certainly don’t go traipsing across the grasslands to get a closer photo – we saw this happening all too often! Keep your distance and, whatever you do, don’t feed them!

5  |  Stick To The Trails

There are signs everywhere imploring visitors to stick to the boardwalks, but it seems as soon as something cute pops up between the bushes, people lose all common sense.

Not only are these rules in place to protect the wildlife and allow them to roam freely within their natural habitat, they also enable the fragile vegetation to thrive without being trampled and, in some areas, save you from falling into the many, many thigh-high bogs that lie alongside the boardwalks.

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6  |  sunrise and sunset are a photographer’s dream.

With wisps of mist unfurling rapidly between the peaks and radiant golden light glimmering across the landscapes, sunrise and sunset in Cradle Mountain is an absolute feast for the eyes, and the lens.

Dove Lake and its insta-famous boatshed are the obvious choice as they’re easy to access at any hour, offer up clear views toward the twin peaks and, if you’re lucky, you’ll get a perfect reflection to capture. But it’s certainly possible to set your sights higher and enjoy the dawn light from one of the upper ridgelines.

7  |  Learn To Love The Shuttle Bus (But Beware The Boom gate)

Since October 2018, the free Cradle Mountain shuttle bus is now the only way to travel through the park during opening hours, that is, between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. during summer (October through March) and 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m in winter. Shuttles leave every 15-minutes or so from the Visitor Centre (more frequently when demand is high) and can drop you at any of the main stops within the park, including the Interpretation Centre, Snake Hill, Ronny’s Creek and Dove Lake. See here for more info.

Though some visitors grumble about the fact they can no longer take their own cars into the park whenever they wish, I actually think this is a fantastic system that is efficient, convenient and goes a long way to easing congestion on the narrow winding roads, being less of a disturbance to the wildlife and dispersing visitors throughout the park.

Outside of the opening hours, it’s still possible to drive into the park which I’d highly recommend to catch the sunrise and sunset, but when you go to leave after the park has opened, you must travel in convoy with a shuttle bus. There are a number of narrow one-way sections and the buses communicate with each other constantly to allow easy passage along the winding roads.

Now, even outside of opening hours, there’s a boom bar at the entrance that remains closed, but the number of eye-rolling, facepalm moments it caused during my visit was enough to make you laugh, had it not always happened at the most frustrating moment, like when the sky begins to clear and you’re eager to reach the lake for sunset.

Most often, visitors simply drive up too slowly to trigger the bar to open and then wait in front of the bar causing a queue to build up behind them. If you’re lucky, a ranger might come to help you out or see if there’s a technical issue, but chances are they won’t. If it happens to you that boom bar doesn’t open, try reversing a short way and then driving a little more deliberately and close to the gate. This worked virtually every time, often after we’d all sat there in a line like fools waiting for 15 minutes.

For whatever reason, they don’t just raise the boom gate after hours, but you’d be surprised at how often this issue ocurrs.

8  |  Leave No Trace!

You’ll quickly notice that there are absolutely no rubbish bins anywhere around Cradle Mountain National Park. And yet, the landscapes are completely pristine and untarnished by the piles of trash that sadly are so pervasive in many other natural areas around the world.

This does, however, mean that you need to plan ahead. If you’re bringing any food into the park or hoping to have a picnic lunch, remember to bring an extra bag with you to take away all your rubbish. This includes tissues, food waste (even fruit peels and cores), and of course, any plastics. Then, dispose of your rubbish responsibly when you’re back at your guesthouse.

For those embarking on longer overnight hikes, like the Overland Trek, you’ll also need to pack out any leftover food, toilet paper and any personal hygiene products as well. These Leave No Trace principles are always helpful to keep in mind.

DON’T MISS: HIKING MOUNT AMOS FOR THE BEST VIEWS OF FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK

9  |  get in early.

Cradle Mountain National Park is by no means crowded, but the early bird does get to enjoy the soft morning light and have the trails more or less to themselves.

As the vast number of people visit on a day trip from Launceston, the crowds usually arrive around mid-morning. If you can get on one of the first shuttles of the day and hit the trails bright and early, you’ll have plenty of time to disappear into the wilderness before the bulk of tourists arrive to spend their afternoon flitting around Dove Lake.

10  |  It’s One Of The Most Beautiful Places In Australia

Put simply, Cradle Mountain is a place of magic.

From the lush microcosms of budding greenery that dress every tree, to the fields of tea tree bushes blanketed in tiny white flowers that shimmer beneath a layer of fresh raindrops. From the abundance of wildlife and their freedom to roam to the ephemeral mists that roll across the mountains. From the sun-drenched boardwalks to the enchanting forests.

It’s a place I was eager to return to as soon as I’d left and one that should definitely be on your Tasmania itinerary .

How To Get To Cradle Mountain National Park

Rental Car  |  Cradle Mountain National Park lies 140km from Launceston and 320km from Hobart and renting a car is an ideal way to explore Tasmania and Cradle Mountain National Park and offers the freedom to explore the park at your own pace outside the opening hours. Search deals on car rental here.

Tour  |   If you’re really short on time, another option is to visit on a day tour from Launceston. Of course, this means your experience will be more rushed than if you arrive independently, but it certainly takes the fuss out of planning and will give you a wonderful introduction to the park. This top-rated Cradle Mountain Day Tour includes all transportation, entry fees, lunch and a walk around Dove Lake among other activities. Otherwise, you can search for available tour options here .

Bus  |  It’s also possible to arrive at Cradle Mountain by bus with several services departing from Launceston, Hobart and Devonport throughout the week and dropping you at the bus terminal beside the Visitor Centre.

Cradle Mountain Accommodation

Cradle Mountain is an impossibly beautiful place to visit, but staying overnight in the area sure doesn’t come cheap. You’ll find a handful of lovely but fairly pricy mountain lodges set near the park entrance, as well as a holiday park for the more budget-conscious travellers.

Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village   |  We stayed in an amazing self-catering cabin at this property with a balcony looking straight out across the eucalypts. Despite the chilly outside temperatures, it was incredibly cosy indoors with a lounge area to relax after a day of hiking and a small kitchenette. It’s also well located just across the road from the Visitors Centre. A beautiful place to stay amongst nature. Highly recommended! Check rates and availability here.

Discovery Parks   | This Australia-wide chain of holiday parks is the only ‘budget-friendly’ option in the area, offering powered and unpowered campsites, dormitories and basic cottages for larger groups. Facilities include a shared guest kitchen, barbeque and laundry. Check rates and availability here and here .

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge   | Set right beside the entrance to the park, Peppers has a beautiful outlook over the wilderness and a small lake, perfect for wildlife spotting when things spring to life around dusk. This luxury property boasts spacious rooms each with a fireplace, a buffet breakfast, comprehensive spa and top-notch in-house restaurant. Check rates and availability here.

Cradle Mountain Highlanders   |   This well-situated property amongst the trees offers up charming mountain cabins adorned with rustic wood detailing and equipped with a fireplace and kitchenette. Check rates and availability here.

Cradle Mountain Hotel   |   The remaining hotel in the area is set a short way further from the park with modern rooms overlooking the landscapes.  Check rates and availability here.

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The ultimate travel guide to Cradle Mountain

• Getting there
• eat & drink
• destinations

Despite being only the sixth highest mountain in Tasmania, Cradle Mountain with its jagged contours, tufts of button grass and still, glacial lakes that reflect towering, ancient pines, is easily one of the state’s most iconic sights. Here you can spot platypus, echidnas and, if you’re lucky, a Tasmanian devil as you tackle one of the many Cradle Mountain walks. And when you’re done walking, there’s plenty else to do and see here . Clip up to the canyon in the park’s waterfalls, relax your tired legs in an outdoor spa or settle in for a three-course meal featuring Tasmania’s finest local produce at one of Cradle Mountain’s best restaurants, then you can rest your head nearby in a cosy cabin or luxury hotel . In search of adventure with a side of serenity? Cradle Mountain fits the bill.

Getting to Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a four-hour drive from Hobart and a two-hour drive from Launceston. To get to Cradle Mountain itself, you’ll need to park at Dove Lake, Ronny Creek, Waldheim or the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre and Transit Terminal and either start the walk from there or take the Dove Lake Shuttle Bus, included in the park entrance fee.

The best time to visit Cradle Mountain is from December to March when the area experiences the least amount of rainfall. The average temperature in summer is roughly 18 degrees Celsius. And while the average temperature is 7 degrees in winter, at night, they can drop to below zero. Snow is common from July to September, particularly at the mountaintops where the chillier temperature means it sticks to the ground.

Top things to do at Cradle Mountain

The most incredible walks in Cradle Mountain

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If you’re craving a holiday spent in the Tasmanian wilderness, there are many things to do in Cradle Mountain that fit the bill. It’s no secret that Cradle Mountain is a bushwalker’s paradise. One of the best features of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is its sheer amount of hikes – there’s one to suit every fitness level. We’ve written a guide to the most incredible walks in Cradle Mountain to help you narrow down your options. Special mention to the Overland Track; the show-stealer takes six days to hike and stretches 65 kilometres from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. With so many ways to experience it, we’ve also got a guide that tells you everything you need to know about the Overland Track.

Not keen on walking trails? Here are the top things to do in Cradle Mountain (that aren’t hiking). Horseback riding, canyoning, and a scenic helicopter ride that takes in the jaw-dropping beauty of Cradle Mountain from the air are just a few of the more adventurous activities that have made our list. There are also many indulgent experiences if you just want to bliss out in nature at a spa. And don’t miss out on the chance to see the endangered Tasmanian devils and their closely related spotted-tail and eastern quolls.

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From luxury lodges to quirky hotels and cosy cabins, there’s a Cradle Mountain accommodation to suit every style of travel – you just need to know where to look. With no actual town in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, you’ll find hotels, lodges and cabins scattered in and around it. There are even a number of magical spots to go camping within Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park if you really want to immerse yourself in the remote wilderness of Cradle Mountain. On the other end of the spectrum, find luxury spa retreats and resorts hidden up high and surrounded by towering trees. Find all this and more in our guide to the dreamiest accommodation in Cradle Mountain for you to choose from.

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8 of the best restaurants in Cradle Mountain

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If you’re staying in one of Cradle Mountain’s many self-contained apartments, take advantage of its kitchen facilities by doing a food shop in the towns of Wynyard, Somerset or Devonport beforehand. Most of the dining spots at Cradle Mountain can be found inside the lodges and resorts, but we’ve written about our top Cradle Mountain restaurant picks to give you an easy guide to reference when hunger strikes while visiting this rugged wilderness in northwest Tasmania.

Tours and packages for Cradle Mountain

While Cradle Mountain’s walks can be undertaken on your own, many of them can be done on a guided tour. Cradle Mountain Tours has half-day and full-day tours of the park, departing from Launceston. McDermott’s Coaches also has tours leaving from Launceston. Book its two-day Cradle Mountain Experience, which includes its Night Spotting Tour, when you can get up close and personal with the area’s nocturnal wildlife. Cradle Mountain Helicopters , next to Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, organises scenic flights ranging from 10 minutes to 100 and transfer flights to other parts of Tasmania.

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Best Time to Visit Cradle Mountain

Wanting to know the best time to visit Cradle Mountain in Tasmania? Find everything you need to know about different seasons and year-round activities at Cradle Mountain in this blog.

Visiting Cradle Mountain in Spring (Sep-Nov)

Visiting cradle mountain in summer (dec-feb), visiting cradle mountain in autumn/fall (mar-may), visiting cradle mountain in winter (jun-aug).

Cradle Mountain is a fabulous place to put on any Tasmanian itinerary , no matter what time of year you plan on going. 

Still, depending on what you want to see and do while visiting Cradle Mountain, some times of year can be better than others. Here’s all the information you need to know about planning the best time to visit Cradle Mountain.

When is the best time of year to visit Cradle Mountain?

The answer to this question depends heavily on what your ideal Cradle Mountain vacation or holiday might look like: does it involve sparkling night skies and majestic snowy landscapes, or seeing the scenery change colour and the waterfalls start to fill? How about long sunny days and refreshing swim sessions? Is it an active adventure you’re after, or fine dining? Do you want to be alone in the wilderness, or get out and about and share this landscape with other visitors and/or Tasmania’s local wildlife? 

To help you get a clearer idea of the best time to visit Cradle Mountain with this in mind, here is a rundown on what to expect at Cradle Mountain in each season of the year:

Weather conditions.

Things warm up quickly in Cradle Mountain during springtime: average daily highs around 5°C in early September reach 12°C by late November. Early spring is still often wet and rainy, but this also drops off considerably by November, with rain becoming more patchy. 

What to do at Cradle Mountain in Spring:

See stunning waterfalls

Coming out of the rainiest season of the year – combined with winter snowmelt and with plenty of rainfall still hanging around – Spring is a fantastic time to see Cradle Mountain’s waterfalls and cascades at their best. Whether you’re brave enough to take a plunge in the swimming holes or not, with temperatures still ramping up towards peak summer, there are a number of waterfalls accessible by short walks from Cradle Mountain village. 

Meet Cradle Mountain’s wildlife

Another advantage of being in Cradle Mountain during spring is that this is the best time to see some of Cradle Mountain’s native wildlife at their most active. Whether hungry echidnas emerging from their winter slumber to forage and feed, or cheeky joeys (baby wallabies) bouncing around, many of Tasmania’s most beloved natural creatures are at their most active and entertaining during springtime.

Summer is the warmest and driest period of the year at Cradle Mountain, peaking in February with average daily highs of 15 °C and fewer rainy days (8) than any other month of the year. 

What to do at Cradle Mountain in Summer:

Enjoy the great outdoors

The world (of Cradle Mountain) is your oyster during the long, warm summer months. Cradle Mountain’s world-famous hiking trails are at their busiest, with people taking advantage of longer daylight hours and the alpine summer temperatures being more mild than elsewhere in Tasmania (and the rest of Australia). 

Take a plunge or take on a challenge

The longer, warmer days also mean that swimming is possible in the alpine lakes, providing the perfect natural remedy for tired muscles. There are plenty of opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, canyoning, and other outdoor adventure sports, too. Although the summer weather is dry and warm compared with other times of year, it can still be changeable in the mountains – unexpected summer snowfalls have occurred occasionally – so make sure you’re always equipped and prepared.

There are still plenty of warm, dry days across the month of March. Rainfall gradually increases throughout April and May, while temperatures steadily drop from average highs around 13°C, in early March, to nightly lows around freezing (0 °C) by the end of May.  

What to do at Cradle Mountain in Autumn/Fall:

Have a trail to yourself

Following the peak heat of summer, autumn has cooler, more moderate temperatures and is potentially the best time for taking on some of Cradle Mountain’s many fantastic walking and hiking trails. You can still expect around 20 dry days in the month of March, as well as some beautiful changing colours to add a touch of magic to the landscape. Crowds are generally much smaller than during summer, too, meaning you can have many Cradle Mountain trails and panoramic viewpoints to yourself. 

See stunning scenery change colour 

The major highlight of a trip to Cradle Mountain during Autumn, though, is the chance to see the spectacular Tasmanian Fagus tree (and the entire landscape) change colour: one of Australia’s very few deciduous species, the Fagus is an ancient Gondwanan relic whose distinctive crinkle-cut leaves turn from green to brilliant gold to burnt copper to orange.

Winter is the wettest season in Cradle Mountain, with July and August having more rain and/or snow than any other months of the year. It also gets much colder, with average daily highs of 5 °C and nightly lows of -2°C between June-August. 

What to do at Cradle Mountain in Winter:

Walk in winter wonderlands

Winter arguably provides an opportunity to see Cradle Mountain’s wild landscapes at their most majestic and breathtaking – draped in pure white snow – so don’t forget your camera! Winter can be a difficult time for inexperienced hikers doing Cradle Mountain’s higher peaks and longer trails, but it’s a fabulous time to enjoy some of the shorter, lower trails near the Visitor Centre and park entrance. These trails can get you right up close and personal to stunning sites like King Billy Pines forest, Dove Lake, Knyvet Falls, and Pencil Pine Cascades. 

Drink, dine, relax

After your walk, cosy up with a local wine or whisky in front of the fireplace at one of Cradle Mountain’s hotels, cottages and lodges; or join in the annual local mid-winter “Christmas” dinner held at the Cradle Mountain Hotel each July. Another great winter activity is lounging in a hot tub at one of Cradle Mountain’s several spas, soaking in therapeutic waters while soaking up the gorgeous, snow-draped scenery. 

Plan your trip to Cradle Mountain now

Whatever time of year you’re planning your visit to Tasmania and Cradle Mountain, you’ll find a treasure trove of information to help you plan your trip on First Light Travel ’s dedicated Tasmania travel blog . They have a number of self-drive Tasmania itinerary options that take in Cradle Mountain.

C ontact FLT’s Tasmania travel experts directly and plan your own customised itinerary.

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Cradle Mountain – All things to know when visiting Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is located at the northern end of Cradle Mountain- Lake St Clair National Park. It is renowned for its diverse landscape and flora.

Here, you can find tranquil glacial lakes, expansive button-grass moorlands, moss-covered rainforests, snow-capped mountain peaks, and abundant wildlife. 

Walking Tracks in Cradle Mountain

Whichever you choose, you will be surrounded by the natural beauty of this wonderful park.

Shorter Walks Near Ranger Station / Interpretation Centre

The enchanted walk.

The Enchanted Walk is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks.

It is a relatively flat, 20 minutes circular walk along Pencil Pine Creek (where I was lucky enough to spot a platypus at nightfall).

With ancient pencil pines and mossy forest, the Enchanted walk will provide you with a taste of Cradle Mountain, without putting on a sweat.

The Rainforest Walk

The Rainforest Walk is another easy and flat walk near the Ranger Station.

It only takes about 10 minutes to complete and will provide you with a view of Pencil Pine Falls.

Dove Canyon Circuit 

If you are up for more challenges, Dove Canyon Circuit could be an option.

The Dove Canyon Circuit is a 3 hours circular walk . It starts just opposite the gift shop.

Along this walk, you will get a close-up view of Pencil Pine Falls and Knyvet Falls, while being surrounded by pristine rainforest.

However, this track can be steep and rocky in certain sections, which may not suit everyone’s taste.

In saying that, you can always follow the boardwalk to Knyvet Falls, before taking the same way back to avoid a long steep hike. This return walk to and from Knyvet Falls will take about 45 minutes instead .

Walking Tracks Near Dove Lake

Dove lake circuit.

Dove Lake is a stunning glacial lake, n estled at the foot of Cradle Mountain. Because of its prime location, Dove Lake offers one of the best views of Cradle Mountain Summit.

The Dove Lake Circuit is a 6km circular walk around Dove Lake, which starts and ends at the Dove Lake Carpark. It is a mostly flat and well-maintained walk, with boardwalks covering the majority of this track.

This circular walk  takes about 2-3 hours to complete , depending on fitness level.  You can explore this walk from either direction, but a clockwise direction is much suggested.

Hansons Peak

When walking clockwise along Dove Lake Circuit, the first track that branches out (on your left-hand side) is the track towards Hansons Peak.

With Dove Lake already sitting at an elevation of 939 metres, the hike to Hansons Peak (1185 metres in elevation) does not seem to be that difficult on paper.

However, as you get closer to the peak, the track becomes very steep with sections of large boulders. You will need help from those chains along this track to scramble up.

Once arrived at Hansons Peak, you will have a full glance at the picturesque Dove Lake, with Cradle Mountain in the background.

After Hansons peak, you can either return to Dove Lake Circuit from the same track you just scrambled up from ( 1 hour one way , depending on fitness level) or continue this clockwise circular walk from the top of these mountain peaks. 

If you continue this walk clockwise from Hansons Peak, you will walk past the beautiful Twisted Lake, before taking Face Track near the Rangers Hut.

Face Track is directly beneath Cradle Mountain Summit. This track does have sections of steep climbs and loose rocks. However, this is a key ‘intersection’ connecting many different tracks and lookouts.

By following Face Track clockwise, you can head over to Lake Wilks, before heading down to Dove Lake Circuit.

Alternatively, if you are up for more challenges, you can head towards the Kitchen Hut.

From Kitchen Hut, you will have the choice of either hiking up to Cradle Mountain Summit, or continuing this clockwise walk towards Marions Lookout. 

Cradle Mountain Summit

If you are feeling adventurous, Cradle Mountain Summit may be for you.

At an elevation of 1545 metres, the hike to Cradle Mountain Summits is a 2-3 hours steep scramble from Kitchen Hut.

From Dove Lake Carpark, it will take around 6-8 hours for a return trip to Cradle Mountain Summit , depending on fitness level and the routes taken.

To attempt this hike, you need to have a hiking experience, with a good fitness level. Waterproof and windproof clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, food, and water will also need to be prepared for this long hike.

Although there is a lot of planning and hard work involved, you will be rewarded with an impressive panoramic view of Dove Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Marions Lookout

Marions Lookout offers a spectacular view of Dove Lake, Crater Lake, and Cradle Mountain. It is a great additional hike from the Kitchen Hut, after visiting Hansons Peak and/or Cradle Mountain Summit. 

From Dove Lake Circuit, the quickest way to this lookout is to use Marions Lookout Link Track. However, this will be a 1-hour long, rough and steep climb (one-way).

Alternatively, you can follow Lake Lilla and Wombat Pool Track, before using part of the Overland Track  to walk towards Marions Lookout. Although this route is longer, it is much easier and gentler on the legs.

Dove Lake Boat Shed

Towards the end of your clockwise walk around Dove Lake , you will be greeted by a picturesque view of the famous Dove Lake Boat Shed.  

Located along the beautiful Dove Lake with Cradle Mountain as a backdrop, this picture-postcard view of the boatshed is truly rewarding after a long hike.

Conveniently, if you are pressed for time, you can take a 15-minute anticlockwise walk from Dove Lake Carpark, for a perfect photo of this charming boat shed .

There is abundant wildlife in Cradle Mountain.

You can easily spot echidnas along the walking tracks during the day.

Around dusk or dawn, wombats and wallabies will be out and about everywhere in Cradle Mountain. You can easily spot them by taking a leisure stroll near the Ranger Station.

Platypus can also be spotted from the rivers and lakes, around dusk or dawn.

Cradle Mountain is also home to the famous Tasmanian Devil, which you can get a close-up encounter with, from Devils @ Cradle Wildlife Park .

How to Get There

F rom the North West, it is a roughly 1-hour drive from Sheffield; and a 1.5-hour drive from Devenport and Burnie. 

From the West Coast, it is about 1.5 hours drive from Queenstown; and 2 hours drive from Strahan.

Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre

Here, y ou can get your park pass, shuttle bus ticket, and a free park map all sorted. The friendly staff can also provide you with a range of information on suggested activities and walking tracks within the park.

The Check-in counter for the Overland Track is located in the visitor centre as well. You can also find a souvenir store, restrooms, and a cafe in this visitor centre.

Entrance Fee

A valid national park pass is required to enter Cradle Mountain. This park pass will give you access to Cradle Mountain and its free shuttle bus service.

The park pass can be purchased from the visitor centre. It is AUD$25 per adult for a Daily Pass.

You can also purchase a Holiday Pass for AUD$80 per vehicle or AUD$40 per person instead. This Holiday Pass will be valid for 2 months, across all of Tasmania’s national parks.

Shuttle Bus

A shuttle bus service has been introduced to Cradle Mountain to protect and preserve this wonderful park. This service is free with a valid park pass.

It operates between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm from April to September, and 8:00 am to 6:00 pm from October to March.

The shuttle bus departs every 15 minutes from the visitor centre. It will also stop at the Ranger Station and Ronny Creek, before arriving at Dove Lake.

Private vehicle access is not permitted during shuttle bus operating hours. Currently, private vehicles are also not allowed to park at Dove Lake Carpark, due to ongoing construction. You can however park at Ronny Creek and walk around 2km to Dove Lake. This construction is estimated to finish by March 2022.

Where to Eat in Cradle Mountain

Restaurants and bars are available from all the hotels within Cradle Mountain. However, they are not all open to non-hotel guests.

Here is a list of dining options for non-hotel guests in Cradle Mountain:

• Elements Cafe near the visitor centre.

Where to Shop in Cradle Mountain

When it comes to groceries, the options are limited in Cradle Mountain.

There is a small gift shop near Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge. As the name suggests, it mainly sells souvenirs, with only limited basic supplies, snacks, and drinks available.

In terms of petrol, there is a 24 hours petrol station near Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, and it accepts cards only. However, for your peace of mind, make sure you fill up the tank before visiting.

Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain

There is a range of accommodations to choose from, within Cradle Mountain.

You can stay at hotels, such as Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge (higher price range) and Cradle Mountain Hotel (mid-range hotel); self-contained chalet at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village; or cabins at Discovery Parks and Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages.

Having said that, because of its prime location, the costs for accommodations within Cradle Mountain are generally more expensive than outside of the park.  If you don’t mind the extra commute to and from the park, many cheaper accommodations are available around Sheffield and Tullah.

However, driving on country roads at dusk or dawn can be challenging, especially when most of Tasmania’s wildlife is nocturnal.

If driving at dusk or dawn, please be very careful, slow down, and share the road.

• Check out accommodations in Tullah on  Booking.com –  40 minutes drive

Winter is the wettest month in Cradle Mountain, with snow commonly seen from July to September. Nonetheless, Cradle Mountain also get snow at any time of the year, even in December.

The weather also changes relatively quick and frequent in Tasmania’s alpine regions. Hence, be sure to prepare waterproof and windproof clothing with sturdy trekking shoes when visiting.

In addition, the views near Dove Lake are very weather dependent. If arriving on a cloudy day, you may not get much of a view even from the summit.

Attempting to hike up the summit can be very dangerous on wet and windy days as well.

Hence, it is always important to check the weather forecast, before heading up Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain Summit.

How Long to Spend in Cradle Mountain?

We stayed for 2 nights in Cradle Mountain, which I believe is an ideal length of stay.

With 2 nights, we had a full day to explore the longer tracks near Dove Lake. With the two half days, we used them to explore those shorter walks near the Ranger Station. At night time, we went on short walks around the Ranger Station and our hotel for wildlife spotting, which was very rewarding.

If interested, you can also join a night-time feeding tour at Devils @ Cradle, for a close encounter with the Tasmanian Devils.

Can You Visit Cradle Mountain in One Day? 

You can certainly visit Cradle Mountain in only a day. However, it may be a rushed trip and physically demanding.

There are different ways to visit Cradle Mountain for only a day.

You can visit those short walks near the Ranger Station for a taste of this wonderful park; or take a shuttle bus/ drive up to Dove Lake for a closer view of Cradle Mountain Summit +/- some short walks around Dove Lake.

If the summit is on your bucket list, you can also attempt the summit on your day trip to Cradle Mountain.

Having said that, it will be a long and steep climb up the summit, which requires tracking experience and a good fitness level. Be sure to also arrive early in the morning, and be prepared for a minimally 6-8 hours (return) long hike, from Dove Lake to the summit.

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How to Spend 2 Nights in Cradle Mountain: Tasmania’s Wilderness

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: March 4, 2024

Cradle Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination on a trip to Tasmania. I had read about the untouched wild landscape and fantastic hikes and wanted to work it into my 8-night Tasmania road trip Itinerary.

I decided on which hiking trails I wanted to do and concluded that staying for 2-nights in Cradle Mountain would be enough time to experience several of Cradle Mountain’s shorter hikes and also get to visit the Tasmanian Devils’ wildlife sanctuary.

Writing this post has brought back to me just how special this place is and how much I loved it there, and I hope you find this post helpful in planning your own trip to this magical wilderness.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – For more information, please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy.

Table of Contents

First Impressions of Tasmania

My son Dominic and I had arrived in Tasmania from Melbourne on the overnight ferry, the Spirit of Tasmania. Once the rental car had been picked up (by a very tired Angie), we were on our way to Cradle Mountain by way of Sheffield, the Tassie town known for its murals . 

We were already getting an idea of what the Tasmanian Wilderness had in store for us during our drive. Eagles soared in the clear blue skies above, and beautiful enchanting views of mountains and lakes allowed us a glimpse of Tasmania’s unspoilt natural beauty.

This must be a national park for the people for all time. It is magnificent, and people must know about it and enjoy it. Gustav Weindorfer – Tasmanian Botanist

The Driving Time from Devonport (ferry terminal) to Cradle Mountain is 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Driving times are approximate, but allow extra time if you stop in Sheffield. We grabbed a coffee and croissant there and wandered the streets, taking photos of the impressive murals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cradle mountain.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair is one of Australia’s best and most important national parks. It is a Unesco World Heritage Area of outstanding natural beauty, spanning an impressive 1600km2. The national park incorporates the iconic Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair, rainforests and diverse flora and fauna.

Visitors come to Cradle Mountain to immerse themselves in the extraordinary natural wilderness and explore the Cradle Mountain hiking trails. From easy routes such as the Enchanted Walk to the difficult 6-day Overland Track that leads through the heart of the Tasmanian World Heritage Area, there are hiking trails for all abilities.

If you want to be at one with nature, then 2-nights in Cradle Mountain will make you feel revived and replenished, but beware, you may not want to leave!

Is 2-Nights in Cradle Mountain Enough Time?

This all depends on what you have on your travel itinerary. If you want to do a few short hikes (including Dove Lake , listed as one of Tasmania’s 60 best short walks), spend some time relaxing, and maybe visit Devils@CradleMountain , then 2-nights is the perfect amount of time to immerse yourself in the spectacular surroundings.

If you want to do several long hikes, you will need to add a few more days to your Cradle Mountain itinerary. This will allow you to include some downtime in your schedule.

Driving Times

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is located in the heart of Tasmania. Driving times from each of the towns are as follows:

Devonport 1 h 15 mins

Launceston 1h 50mins

Strahan 2 h

Hobart and Freycinet National Park 4h

Please bear in mind these are approximate timings but can change due to weather and road conditions.

Purchasing Cradle Mountain Passes

You must visit Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre to buy mandatory permits for your stay. We opted for the Cradle Mountain icon daily pass at $25 per adult (including the shuttle bus).

Yes, this is costly; however, funds are reinvested in the upkeep of the parks and reserves. Every person buying a pass helps towards the future preservation of Tasmania’s natural landscape. Cradle Mountain maps can also be picked up from here.

Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain

There are only a few places offering accommodation in Cradle Mountain.

For us, Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village ticked all the boxes. We wanted self-catering accommodation to make lunches for our hikes and evening meals easily. We also wanted our accommodation in the bush to see lots of wildlife. It was, and we did!

Other places to stay that you might like are:

Cradle Mountain Hotel – Luxury

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge – Luxury

Cradle Mountain Highlanders – Comfort

Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain – Budget

For additional accommodation near Cradle Mountain, the town of Moina is a good option. For more information, please see my post, 9 Best Cradle Mountain Accommodations for a Wilderness Break .

Wildlife in Cradle Mountain

I will be totally honest and tell you that I didn’t see much wildlife during my stay in Cradle Mountain. I had visions of kangaroos hopping about everywhere and wombats scurrying across my path as I walked. In fact, the only animals I saw were one echidna, one possum, several pademelons and lots of big black birds called Currawongs.

Despite not seeing a wombat (do they really exist!) and definitely no platypus (as displayed on various signboards near the waterfalls) – I still had the best time. Cradle Mountain is one of those places where nothing can disappoint you, and it became my favourite place to visit during my 6-week trip around Australia.

Ensure you stay on the boardwalks and designated trails while in Cradle Mountain. They are there to protect the natural environment and animals from being overly disturbed by hoards of inquisitive hikers.

If you drive in Cradle Mountain at dusk, be mindful of wallabies, echidnas, and all their friends merrily wandering along in the middle of the road. I saw a lot of roadkill in Tasmania and was really affected by it, so please stick to the speed limits.

When is the best time to visit Cradle Mountain?

We visited in February, and the weather was perfect however the weather in Cradle Mountain can be very temperamental. Tasmania’s climate differs from mainland Australia so great care should be taken to pack the right clothing and footwear.

Layers are the perfect answer to topsy-turvy weather patterns. Pile them on and then peel them off as needed.

Remember to wear high-factor sunscreen, as Tasmania has a thin ozone layer, and extra protection is needed. There are midges at play in Tassie, so wear a mosquito block to stop yourself from looking like a pin cushion. I forgot to apply it one morning, and midges bit my ankles to bits!

November to February are Australia’s summer months, so the weather is warm, although this is peak season and sees more tourists arriving.

Autumn is a real mixed bag of weather, but the landscape’s changing colours are very appealing.

Winter will be cold, and you can see snow and sunshine all in one day.

Spring is also temperamental but is when new life unfolds, so it is a magical time to visit.

2-Night Cradle Mountain Itinerary

Day one – morning.

Driving toward the national park was something very special and will always stay with me. The scenery is awe-inspiring, and the majesty of Cradle Mountain looming in the distance brings a lump to the throat.

As we drove across the bridge into the national park, we saw Pencil Pine Cascades. We parked up in Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge car park (the start of several smaller hiking routes) and crossed the road to take photos of the waterfall from the bridge. This is exactly why we had come to Cradle Mountain – to see nature at its finest.

The Enchanted Walk

We were too early to check in to our cabin and were already parked up, so we decided to explore the Enchanted Walk, starting by the bridge opposite the lodge. It is an easy 20-minute circular stroll through a moss-covered forest with ferns and the Pencil Pine River running alongside.

It’s here we spotted our first pademelon (which looks like a small kangaroo) and were so excited! Keep an eye out for wombats in this area. We didn’t see any, but apparently, they love it here and make their burrows along the bank!

The Waterfalls Walk

Back at the start of the Enchanted Walk, we then decided to take the Dove Canyon Track to see Pencil Pine Falls and Knyvet Falls. The walk takes around 40 minutes and leads you to a viewing platform and seating area to view Knyvet Falls. The whole track is boarded, so it is suitable for all abilities.

Our cabin at Wilderness Village

With passes sorted out, we finally got into our accommodation, and I was thrilled with our cabin. The cabins were all spaced out well, and I felt like I really was in the middle of the wilderness. A balcony with a table and chairs was the perfect place to sit and enjoy morning coffee (and, later that evening, the local wine!)

On both evenings during our stay, we were visited by a menagerie of animals. A family of pademelons, lots of birds and a possum (it was the first time I had seen one and they are big!).

It decided to come onto our balcony one evening and just stared at us through the netting on the patio door. I thought it looked cute but was told later by a local that the possum is regarded as a nuisance and causes quite a bit of damage to property. How can something with such a cute face be so naughty?

Restaurants in Cradle Mountain

We spent some time in our cabin, showering and chilling after our early morning start. I was startled by the brown water from the taps but was told by reception that it was tannin from tree roots.

The colour is picked up as the water passes through from the mountains. It is harmless but does look weird as it cascades over you in the shower!

After our mid-afternoon rest, we went out again to find somewhere to eat. Be warned, there are no fast food outlets.

You either eat in one of the hotels or cook for yourself (stock up on provisions in Sheffield). We returned and ate at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge and enjoyed a pasta dish, burgers and a local cider in the sunshine on the deck – all cooked to perfection.

Day One – Evening

Meeting the tasmanian devils.

After another wander around the area adjacent to the restaurant, hoping to spot some wildlife (we didn’t see anything), we jumped back in the car and headed down the road to join the evening feeding tour at Devils@CradleMountain.

I was hoping I might see a wild Tasmanian devil walking around the bush, but it seems they are endangered, so the best way of learning about them and seeing them first-hand is at this wonderful animal sanctuary.

The tour started at 5.30 pm and lasted 75 minutes. We learnt about how they hunt and the facial tumours that are wiping the species out. I would definitely add this to your itinerary as you can’t come to Tassie and not see a Devil in the flesh!

Day Two – Morning/Afternoon

Dove lake walk.

I had been looking forward to the Dove Lake Walk since I first decided to plan a trip to Tasmania. I had seen its natural beauty in photographs and longed to see it myself. Now, here we were, sitting in the Cradle Mountain shuttle bus, being taken to this picturesque destination.

The vista of Dove Lake, with the backdrop of the two mountain peaks, takes your breath away. It is one of the most popular walks in Cradle Mountain and one of the most popular destinations to visit in Tasmania.

The walk takes you around the glacial lake, through temperate rainforest, past small areas of shingle and sand beach and ancient myrtle trees. The walk ends at the iconic Dove Lake boatshed, a focal point that is a photographer’s dream. In fact, every part of the walk is inspirational, and I must have taken over 100 photos!

Day Two – Evening

After a fantastic day at Dove Lake, we were pretty worn out (and a little bit sunburnt!) and decided to chill out around the cabin and check out the pool table and bar in the guest area of the reception. This is also the only place you will get wifi, so don’t be shocked to see phones charging and guests busily texting!

We both concluded that two nights in Cradle Mountain had been the perfect amount of time for us to do everything we had wanted, with time to relax at our cabin in the wilderness.

Of course, plenty of other outdoor activities in Cradle Mountain will keep you entertained. From kayaking and canyoning to horse-riding, after-dark wildlife spotting and even scenic flights above the wilderness.

And for those looking for the ultimate in relaxation, the Waldheim Spa is the place to sort out those tired muscles, drift off and dream about an enchanted place called Cradle Mountain.

Final Thoughts About Cradle Mountain

If you are considering coming to Cradle Mountain, you won’t be disappointed.

It is one place on earth where I felt the natural world around me had remained untouched by man. I absolutely loved everything about Cradle Mountain, and if I ever get the chance to return, I will in a heartbeat.

Please   Pin for Future Travel to Australia

Looking for further Australian inspiration? Please check out the following posts:

• A journey through Australia on the Ghan Train
• Sheffield – The Colourful Town of Murals
• 2 Nights in Cradle Mountain Tasmania
• 2 Nights in Freycinet National Park Tasmania .
• Where to see a Tasmanian Devil
• Adelaide to Melbourne Road Trip

Need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  resources page  to help you plan your trip.

 I would like to receive occasional updates and new travel posts.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Linda (LD Holland)

Tuesday 26th of July 2022

On the travel wish list! Would love to visit Tasmania when we get back to Australia. A few nights in the Cradle Mountain National Park sounds like something we should plan. We would not want to miss the Tasmanian devils’ wildlife sanctuary. I can see how you would be replenished after a few days in this environment with all these great hikes. 

WhereAngieWanders

I absolutely loved everything about Cradle Mountain and hope that you get there one day to experience it for yourself.

Sunday 17th of October 2021

I love this! I was hoping to go to Tasmania the last time I was in Australia but didn't make it. You have sold me on definitely visiting next time...when I'm allowed back in the country;) And Cradle Mountain looks stunning! Thanks for sharing.

Laureen Lund

I loved this post! We spent a month in Australia only to realize we need five months to see it all! Looking forward to a return visit and Tasmania is high on the list. Thanks for putting together such a great guide. I will refer to it in our future planning.

I am glad you found it useful and I agree you can never have long enough to see Australia. I plan to go back one day and spend about 2 months just on Tasmania because I loved it so much.

Saturday 16th of October 2021

One of my favourite places in Tasmania. This post brings back many happy memories. I was so excited when I saw the Tasmanian devils - a highlight.

Me too! What a noise they make when they are being fed!!

The Best Time to Visit Cradle Mountain, TS, Australia for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Cradle Mountain for ideal weather are

April 9th to June 17th

August 20th to october 14th.

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Cradle Mountain Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Cradle Mountain Travel Info

Weather in cradle mountain.

Average temperatures in Cradle Mountain vary an incredible amount. Considering humidity, temperatures feel cold for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a very low chance of rain or snow throughout the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 55th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Cradle Mountain, the hottest months are July, August, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late July where highs are regularly around 91.4°F (33°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 72.1°F (22.3°C) at night.

Cradle Mountain Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Cradle mountain temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Cradle Mountain Perceived Temperature (F)

Cradle mountain perceived temperature (c), average cradle mountain temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow), chance of precipitation.

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Cradle Mountain.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Cradle Mountain (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Cradle Mountain has some very humid months, with other moderately humid months on the other side of the year. The least humid month is March (49.3% relative humidity), and the most humid month is December (73.7%).

Wind in Cradle Mountain is usually calm . The windiest month is February, followed by November and April. February’s average wind speed of around 6.4 knots (7.4 MPH or 11.9 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early to mid April where average top sustained speeds reach 16.6 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Cradle Mountain.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to cradle mountain.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for Australia; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 30, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Cradle Mountain, TS, Australia is September, followed by October and January. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Cradle Mountain in August. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall cradle mountain travel experience by season, fall (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderate. Highs range from 76.5°F (24.7°C) and 35.3°F (1.8°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Fall is fairly slow for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.

Winter (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. June – August is the slowest season for tourism in Cradle Mountain, so lodging and other accommodations may cost less than usual.

Spring (September through November)

Spring daily highs range from 85.6°F (29.8°C) and 43.6°F (6.4°C), which will feel comfortable given the humidity and wind. Tourism is the busiest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be higher priced.

Summer (December through February)

Weather is far too cold this time of year in Cradle Mountain to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 55.4°F (13°C) and 31.5°F (-0.3°C). These times of year are the second busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Australia › Cradle Mountain, TS, Australia

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Ultimate Guide to the Cradle Mountain Summit Walk (including the best viewpoints)

Cradle Mountain is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Tasmania.

If you’re up for the challenge, the Cradle Mountain summit walk should be top of your bucket list.

The 11 km Cradle Mountain circuit takes you to some of the most iconic locations, including Hansons Peak, Marions Lookout, and the Dove Lake Boatshed.

The tough climb is only recommended for those adventure junkies looking for a challenge.

But the views of the rolling hills and craggy peaks in the distance make it all worth it!

Read on as I take you along the 8-hour hike to the Cradle Mountain Summit, with tips for avoiding the crowds, the best viewpoints, and more!

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Cradle Mountain Summit Hike details

• Distance: 11 km
• Duration: 8 hours
• Route style: Circuit
• Difficulty: 5/5
• Where to stay: Wombat Cabin
• Highlights: Hansons Peak (1 100 m), Cradle Mountain Summit (1 545 m), Marion’s Lookout (1 200 m), Dove Lake Boatshed

Cradle Mountain map

Overview of the Cradle Mountain Summit Walk

This Cradle Mountain summit track is not for the faint-hearted.

The trails are rough and steep, and the uphill sections will take their toll on your knees, especially when you’re on your feet for over 8 hours.

Starting at Dove Lake Car Park, you’ll go in a clockwise direction to Hansons Peak before reaching the Cradle Mountain Summit.

From there, you’ll head back down via Marions Lookout and the Dove Lake Boatshed

Sound good? Here’s exactly what to expect!

Start: Dove Lake Car Park

The starting point for this Cradle Mountain summit walk is the car park closest to Dove Lake.

Famous for the rustic boatshed nestled alongside the water’s edge, Dove Lake is arguably the most famous place to visit in Cradle Mountain.

The national park runs a free shuttle service to Dove Lake that departs from the Cradle Mountain Visitors Centre every 15 minutes. Try to make the first bus so that you’re not pressed for time later in the day.

Pro tip: There is also a walking trail starting from Ronny Creek car park that leads to Dove Lake. If you’re looking for a longer walk and different landscapes, there is the option to start your hike from there. But this will add an extra hour or two to your total time. And with a tough summit ahead of you, I recommend that you start at Dove Lake instead.

Dove Lake to Hansons Peak

After registering your name in the logbook, you’ll be on your way.

The first 300m of your hike will be busy, but you’ll divert from the mass traffic as they head right toward the Dove Lake boatshed.

You’ll head left in a clockwise direction to Hansons Peak.

The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, and you’ll pass breathtaking viewpoints, including Glacier Rock.

Soon you’ll reach a junction where you can either follow the Dove Lake Circuit Track or the trail leading to Hansons Peak.

Take the left path and head uphill to Hansons Peak.

Climbing up to Hansons Peak

As you get closer to the peak, the trail becomes steeper, and you’ll need to scramble up a few sections with the help of a chain.

While this part is quite challenging, it’s not nearly as difficult as the lady at the Visitor Centre said it would be!

Twisted Lakes and Hansons Peak

From there, it’s just views, views, and more views as you pass Twisted Lakes and get closer to Hansons Peak.

The sights here were some of the best throughout the walk.

So, take them in, and do not skip this part when you climb Cradle Mountain!

Hansons Peak to Kitchen Hut

At this point, you’ll only be about 2 hours into your Cradle Mountain climb.

After leaving Hansons Peak, you’ll reach Rangers Hut. This is the junction at which the Face Track meets with the Lake Rodway track.

Follow the Face Track toward Kitchen Hut.

This section is rugged and untouched, with loose rocks and a bit of uphill climbing.

You’re still on the uncrowded route, so you’ll have a relatively quiet trail with lots of photo opportunities.

When you get to Kitchen Hut, it will be a different story! This is where all the trails to the summit of Cradle Mountain converge, and so it can get quite busy from here.

Kitchen Hut to Cradle Mountain Summit (3 hours)

Standing at the base of the Cradle Mountain summit, the final stretch may look relatively easy.

But it’s not!

Everything was “easy” up until this point.

Allow for a total of 3 hours to get from Kitchen Hut to the summit and back (which will include about 30 minutes for a break at the top).

Honestly, I thought it would take us quicker, but it didn’t.

While this final section isn’t clearly marked, there are snow poles dotted along the track, so keep an eye out for those.

In bad conditions, it can be quite difficult to navigate over the boulders. If you can’t see far ahead of you, I strongly advise you to turn around.

The climbing and scrambling

The summit climb begins with a gradual incline but rapidly becomes more challenging and technical the higher up you go.

There are many false peaks, and it’s a continuous scramble over large boulders. As you crawl over one massive rock, you’ll be met with another one immediately after.

If you start getting nervous and don’t feel comfortable or safe, turn around, as it doesn’t get easier.

If heights aren’t your thing – stop in your tracks and head back down!

It’s about an hour of tough climbing to the Cradle Mountain summit (and then going down is the same story).

Top tip: If this challenging summit walk isn’t for you, check out these awesome Cradle Mountain walks that aren’t as hectic.

Cradle Mountain Summit

Standing tall at 1 454 m, the summit of Cradle Mountain offers unspoiled panoramic views of charming lakes, rolling hills, and jagged peaks in the distance.

Give yourself about 30 minutes to enjoy the scenery, have a snack, and then head back down.

Cradle Mountain Summit to Kitchen Hut

Now it’s time to get back down those massive boulders you scaled up to the summit.

This part can be dangerous, so take it slow.

I literally slid down the rocks, trying to find my footing, and my arms were aching by the end of it.

Kitchen Hut to Marions Lookout

Phew – the hard part is over.

It’s all downhill from here!

Expect lots of tourists as you make your way back to Dove Lake via Marions Lookout, as this is a popular route.

Before reaching Marions Lookout, you’ll find Crater Lakes to your left. They’re worth a quick visit before continuing to Marions Lookout.

After the spectacular views from Hansons Peak and Cradle Mountain summit, Marions Lookout didn’t quite compare.

But that’s just my opinion. After 7 hours of hiking, I was tired and sore and ready to head home for a well-deserved beer!

Take a few moments to enjoy the views – the end is in sight.

Marions Lookout to Dove Lake Boatshed

The final section of your Cradle Mountain summit track will depend on how much energy you have.

We were exhausted!

With our eyes on the prize (er, beer, and pizza) , we wanted the quickest trail down to Dove Lake.

We opted for the Marions Lookout Link Track to the Dove Lake Boatshed.

While it’s the fastest way to get back to the starting point, it’s also extremely tough on your already fragile legs as it’s super steep.

I’m so glad we were going down the hill using this route and not up!

Another option to get from Marions Lookout to the Dove Lake Boatshed is to take the Wombat Pools Track followed by the Lake Lilla Track.

This scenic route is longer than the Link Track that we took, but it’s a more gradual descent and also meets at Dove Lake Boatshed.

Dove Lake Boatshed: The end of the Cradle Mountain summit hike

You made it!

As you turn the final corner leading to the boatshed, you’ll feel like you’re on the set of a photoshoot.

Tourists line the small sandy patch, snapping away at the iconic boatshed with Cradle Mountain peak as the backdrop.

Take off your shoes and step into the freezing cold water – your feet will love you for this! Or, if you’re like Gary, just take a swim instead.

You may want to pack an extra set of shorts if you plan on swimming.

From here, it’s a short 10-minute walk back to the Dove Lake car park, where you’ll meet the shuttle bus.

Remember to sign in at the register before leaving.

Cradle Mountain hike difficulty

The Cradle Mountain summit hike is not for inexperienced hikers.

From Kitchen Hut to the summit and back, it’s 2 to 3 hours of tough climbing.

You have to pull yourself over huge boulders that might be double your size, and you need to scramble on all fours. And it’s not just a short section – it’s about 80% of it.

I consider myself relatively fit and athletic, and I enjoyed the thrill and challenge of the summit section.

But I did find it difficult and demanding on my legs (and arms).

READ MORE: PERFECT BLUE MOUNTAINS ITINERARY

Is it suitable for children?

I was surprised to see children around the age of 7 who had successfully summited Cradle Mountain, rock hopping with so much energy.

But they looked like they had done a lot of hiking previously and were strong enough to make it to the top.

On the other hand, I saw a family of six with four kids under the age of 4 trying to get to the summit (they didn’t make it). The youngest was only a few months old!

I don’t recommend attempting to climb Cradle Mountain if you have more than two children to look after, no matter how adventurous your family is.

The type of climbing and squeezing you’ll be doing means that you cannot have anything (or anyone) attached to your front or back.

National Park Entrance fees and Shuttle Bus

Cradle mountain entrance fees.

To enter the Cradle Mountain National Park, you’ll need to purchase a National Park pass from the Visitors Centre.

This also gives you access to the free shuttle operated by the national park.

The entrance fee to Cradle Mountain is $25 per person for a 24-hour pass.

There is also the option to purchase a 2-month pass which is $80 per vehicle. If you plan on spending more time in Cradle Mountain or visiting other national parks within Tasmania, it’s better to go for the 2-month pass.

Find out more here .

Free Shuttle Service

Departing from the Visitor Centre to Dove Lake, the Cradle Mountain shuttle also stops at the Rangers Station (close to Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge ) and Ronny’s Creek (start of the Overland Track).

The 15-minute bus ride is often busy in the mornings, but there are several shuttles, so they do accommodate everyone.

The times for the shuttle vary. But generally, they operate from 08:00 am – 6:00 pm in summer (1 October to 31 March) and 09:00 am – 5:00 pm in winter (1 April – 31 September).

If you miss the last bus, you will need to walk 15 km back to the Visitor Centre.

Driving into the park

There is the option to drive your car into the national park. But you can only do so outside of the shuttle operating hours. This means you need to arrive before 8 am.

There are only a handful of parking spaces available at Dove Lake. If these are all taken, you’ll need to stop at Ronny Creek Car Park and walk 2 km to Dove Lake.

Bear in mind that when you return, you’ll need to follow one of the shuttle buses back to the Visitors Centre.

In my opinion, it’s a lot easier to take the free shuttle bus instead.

Shuttle or self-drive

I was eager to get there early and drive into the park so that I could get a head start on the crowds.

But, after realizing that I couldn’t stop at Dove Lake, I opted to take the first shuttle from the Visitors Centre to Dove Lake.

Yes, it was busy, but there were enough buses to accommodate everyone.

Other Cradle Mountain Summit Walks

My recommended route ( Dove Lake Car Park – Hansons Peak – Face Track – Summit – Marions Lookout – Dove Lake Boatshed ) is the best Cradle Mountain hike for adventurous travelers and experienced hikers.

Here are a few other options that other hikers opt for, and I’ve highlighted why I didn’t choose them.

Starting at Ronny Creek Car Park

This is the route that the staff at the Visitors Centre recommended to us.

Ronny Creek Car Park – Overland Track – Crater Lakes – Marions Lookout – Kitchen Hut – Summit – Kitchen Hut – Marions Lookout – Dove Lake Boatshed

Starting at Ronny’s Creek, it follows the Overland Track and goes past Marions Lookout and onto the summit, before coming back down via Marions Lookout (again).

I didn’t like the idea of walking the same sections twice – where’s the fun in that!

But it was recommended as the “safe option”. But most importantly, it skips Hansons Peak, which I felt was the best part of the hike!

The Dove Lake Circuit to cRADLE mOUNTAIN summit

I’d say that this is a good runner-up for the best Cradle Mountain summit hike.

Dove Lake Car Park – Dove Lake Circuit (left) – Lake Wilks Track – Face Track – Summit – Kitchen Hut – Marions Lookout – Dove Lake Boatshed

This is another option that’s slightly shorter than the summit walk I recommended above.

It’s a circuit track, so you won’t walk the same route twice, and offers incredible scenery.

But it skips one of the most incredible spots: Hansons Peak!

What to Pack for Cradle Mountain Summit Walk

Don’t underestimate what you’ll need to pack if you’re planning on summiting Cradle Mountain.

The national park is notorious for bad weather, and you need to be prepared.

• Hiking pants: I love hiking in Yoga pants, but you may prefer shorts.
• Hiking boots: Normal trainers are also fine, but hiking boots are preferable.
• Thick socks: Your feet will thank you later.
• Hiking top: As the sun rises, it gets hot up there, so wear a short-sleeved top to hike in.
• Long-sleeve hiking top: I always pack this in for an extra layer of warmth.
• Waterproof jacket. I didn’t use this on my Cradle Mountain summit walk, but I packed it in just in case.
• Beanie and gloves: If you’re hiking in winter, make sure you have these.
• Head torch: Starting before sunrise? You’ll need a light.
• Backpack: Bring a day pack that’s big enough to fit your water bottles, personal items, and snacks.
• Food: Snacks and lunch.
• Water: 2-3 liters of water.
• Suncare: Sunglasses, hat, suncream.

Best time to summit Cradle Mountain

You’re lucky if you have perfect weather conditions when climbing Cradle Mountain.

Yes, I consider myself incredibly lucky!

We hiked over the Easter weekend in April and couldn’t have asked for better weather.

The week after, however, was a different story. Temperatures were nearing zero degrees, and snow was forecasted in Tasmania!

From May to September, it can be freezing cold, and snow is common during this time.

March is the driest month, so if you plan your trip for then, you’ll have the highest chance of clear skies.

How to get to Cradle Mountain

The Cradle Mountain summit is found northwest of Tasmania, in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

Launceston is only 2 hours away, and Hobart is 4-hours.

If you’re driving from Hobart, be sure to take the A5 scenic route to Cradle Mountain.

Where to stay

Wombat Cabin is one of the most incredible places I have ever stayed at!

Nestled in the forests, it’s the perfect spot to come home to after a long day of hiking.

The private cottage, with its indoor fireplace and rustic decor, is cozy and charming. Wallabies and possums greeted us every evening, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot a wombat or two.

While Wombat Cabin is not found in the national park itself, it’s a short 15-minute drive to the entrance.

If you’re looking for a romantic place to stay. I can’t recommend this place highly enough.

And for the price, it’s an absolute steal!

But there’s a high chance it’s already booked out for your dates. You can check availability here.

Other places to stay near Cradle Mountain

If you want to be close to all the action, Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge offers superb luxury cabins just a stone’s throw away from the Cradle Mountain summit.

The famous Enchanted Walk and King Billy Walk start from the property, and there’s also a vibey onsite bar and restaurant. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth popping in for a beer after your summit climb.

But there’s more – a spa! Treat yourself to a massage or relax in the sauna or steam rooms.

Overall, Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge is a top choice for those who are willing to pay a bit more for luxurious accommodation close to Cradle Mountain.

You can find the latest prices and read reviews here.

If you’re looking for a rustic and romantic place to stay that won’t break the bank, Cradle Mountain Highlanders is just for you. Located alongside the Visitors Centre, the cute cabins are surrounded by nature, and each one comes fitted with a cozy indoor fireplace.

Cradle Mountain Highlanders is a close runner-up to Wombat Cabin (in my opinion). If we couldn’t get a booking at the Wombat Cabin, we would have gone straight to Cradle Mountain Highlanders. You can check the reviews and prices here.

Top tip: Looking for the best places to stay in Cradle Mountain? Take a look at these amazing hotels and cabins just a short drive from Cradle Mountain National Park.

READ MORE: 27+ BEST THINGS TO DO IN CAIRNS

Cradle Mountain Summit Review

Summiting Cradle Mountain was the highlight of my trip to Tasmania.

It’s a tough and grueling climb but 100% worth it if you’re looking for a challenge. While there are various walks to the top, I highly recommend the circuit track that I’ve detailed in this post.

Are you planning on conquering the Cradle Mountain summit? Do you have any questions about the walk or visiting Tasmania? Let me know in the comment section below!

Looking for your next adventure? Check out my other posts!

• 17+ Best Things to Do on Fraser Island
• The Best Hike in the Blue Mountains
• Ultimate Guide to the Palm Beach Lighthouse Walk in Sydney
• Guide to the Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk

Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

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Best places to stay in uluwatu: insider guide on where to stay in uluwatu, 4 thoughts on “ultimate guide to the cradle mountain summit walk (including the best viewpoints)”.

Hi Carryn, I am just after some info on walking the summit of cradle Mt. My hubby & I are in our 60’s but are reasonably fit however unfortunately not quite as flexible as we used to be. Which track would you suggest we take, we are up for a challenge but will be walking in mid April so hopefully daylight hours won’t be against us. The hardest trek we have done was Kokoda Track in 2019, (that was pretty tough). Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks

Hi Kerie, I recommend going for the summit climb, starting at 8am. The route (which I’ve detailed below) passes some of the best trails and viewpoints so I rate you go for it. If the summit climb gets too intense, you can always turn back and continue along the track around Dove Lake.

Start at the Dove Lake car park then go left to Hansons Peak. From there you’ll go right to get to the path leading to the summit. If you choose to skip it (because of time or difficulty), you continue right to Marions Lookout and then down to Dove Lake.

Hi CARRYN, My wife and I are in the early 60s, we consider ourselves fit and enjoy hikes and walks in other countries. After reading your article…I feel my wife will not find the summit climb enjoyable although I would like to some day give it a go. I we minus that from the route you did…how long should we allocate time for it.? We are going in Jan 9th , is that busy busy with crowds…can we enter the park at 6pm and rush for that limited car park?…if we do this will we miss the BOATSHED and the lake dip?

Thanks for your comment. To confirm, you mean to start your hike at 6 am (not 6 pm). If so, I recommend you follow this route if you’d prefer to skip the Cradle Mountain summit section: Dove Lake Car Park – Hansons Peak – Marions Lookout – Dove Lake Boatshed. This is a beautiful walk and should take you about 5 hours to complete.

It shouldn’t be too busy on the 9th as it’s a weekday. Dove Lake Boatshed is always a popular spot but the other sections of the walk are a lot quieter and peaceful.

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Cradle Mountain - 5 Hikes and Walks + Wildlife Guide - New Shuttle Bus Ticket

When Is the Best Time

Hiking in the Cradle Mountain National Park is very popular throughout the year. However, you have to deal with snow in the winter, and despite more pleasant temperatures in the summer, the weather is even more unpredictable. Due to the park's high elevation of almost 1000 m elevation, snow can also occur in December, as it happened in 2019, Mid-November 2021 and late November 2022.

Cradle is pretty busy, with the highest accommodation rates and crowds around Dove Lake during the summer. Do you wish to explore Cradle on one of the existing hiking trails? You will find my Table of Content, descriptions, detailed Locus App Maps, and all about the Cradle wildlife below.

Weather by Seasons

The best time to visit Cradle Mountain is from December to March. January and February experience the least amount of rainfall. The winter is the quietest time and the coldest, which makes hiking to the summit in snow and ice sometimes impossible.

These months with the most stable weather are also the busiest. There was a new visitor record in 2021. Visitor numbers are increasing annually; November and April are less crowded. Keep in mind; that the weather at Cradle is notorious for its unpredictability throughout the year. Always check the weather forecast before hiking. In November 2021, there were three rescues in three days due to the poor weather. In late November 2022, Cradle experienced heavy snowfall like in winter.  Weather Forecast  Two forecasts are available: one for Dove Lake and one for Cradle Mountain at 1545 m elevation.

Shuttle Bus Service and Parking - New Shuttle Bus Ticket Summer 2023/24

I couldn't believe the news for Cradle Mountain. A fee of $15 will be introduced for using the shuttle bus from November 15 onwards. The ticket is valid for three days; an annual ticket is $45. You can get the ticket at the Cradle Mountain information centre.

There is one car park at Dove Lake and one at Ronny Creek. Arriving early is recommended in summer before 8 a.m. and in winter before 8.30 a.m. because of the restricted access. Otherwise, shuttle buses have to be taken. For National Park Pass holders, the shuttle bus is free. Due to the increasing number of visitors, a new bus service also for people with disabilities was introduced in 2018. When these medium-sized buses operate, cars can't get to the parking. You must drive behind the bus if you wish to leave the parking with your vehicle during operating hours. If you want to hike independently, consider the bus operating hours. Dove Lake car park capacity of roughly 230 cars - e-car charging available. Now, only cars are allowed, now campervans, caravans, and other more oversized vehicles.

Shuttle Bus Operating Hours

The shuttle goes every ten minutes, however, during crazy summer days, you may line up.

• Summer 8 am - 7.30 pm
• Winter 8.30 am - 4.30 pm
• Visitor Centre
• Interpretation Center and Ranger Station
• Ronny Creek

New Viewing Shelter at Dove Lake

A new viewing shelter was built at Dove Lake, and Cumulus Studio won two prestigious awards. This new modern building includes a hiker registration, an information area, toilets, and a bus shelter. However, who needs a viewing shelter in the rain? If it rains, Cradle is covered in clouds. To experience this incredible National Park's natural beauty, you must hike despite the weather. I talked to several residents, and most don't understand the need for an "ugly box" or "a shelter without a character which does not suit the climate".  Let me know what you think about it

Is It Worth Going to Cradle Mountain?

If you haven't been to Cradle Mountain, you haven't been to Tassie. Experience the pristine wild nature, the alpine landscape, and the fascinating rainforest with abundant wildlife. Even if you only spend a week in Tasmania, this is the Must-Visit National Park. It is an exceptional place to escape it all and has majestic beauty in all seasons.

Can You Do Cradle Mountain in One Day?

Honestly, rushing to Cradle to spend less than one day, in the end, doesn't make sense. If you just wish to see Cradle and Dove Lake and hike around the lake, that is possible in one day. Nevertheless, this is Cradle, notorious for clouds and rainy weather. If you spend just one day here, you cannot count on seeing Cradle Mountain. Due to the remote location, I always recommend at least two nights to be a bit safer to go on a hike to experience this exceptional nature mother earth created here.

Spring (October-November)

Wildflowers are abundant during spring and early summer. Tasmanian Waratah and Banksia are flowering, which is beautiful to see. Echidnas can be seen getting active after hibernation in winter. Day temps range between 10°C-15°C / 50°F-59°F on average. October is one of the windiest months of the year. We experienced snow and hail in November on a higher elevation with 0°C / 32°F while hiking. Also, in 2021 and 2022, it snowed in Cradle until mid-November.

Summer (December-March)

More stable weather from December to April with warmer daily temps on average around 15°C-18°C/59°F-64°F. The "warmest" months are January and February, and less precipitation from January to March. However, the weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for four seasons in one day, even during summer.

If you wish to camp, be prepared for one-digit night temps throughout the year. Even during summer, expect snow as well. If hiking the Overland Track, carry warm clothes as well. In December 2019, three hikers suffered hypothermia, and luckily, all of them got rescued.

Autumn (April - May)

You see a spectacular range of autumn colours in April and May, from gold to deep red. The deciduous beech tree, also called Fagus, is the icing on the cake until it loses its leaves. The tree is endemic to Australia. Daily temps are around 10°C-15°C / 50°F-59°F on average. Nights are cold, ranging from 5°C-3°C / 41°F-37°F, with already increasing rainfall in April. The autumn in 2020 was wet and freezing already, with snowfall at the end of May.

Winter (June-September)

The winter is the wettest time of the year, which means the snow season in Cradle. Snow is expected, usually from July to September, with an average daily temp of 6°C / 43°F. It can get even colder and freezing at night (below 0°C / 32°F). Be prepared for minus degrees at night while camping. The coldest months are July and August.

Hiking can be difficult and strenuous, depending on the amount of snow. If there is heavy snowfall, the road to Dove Lake is closed for 2WD. May and September are a little warmer. However, it is not uncommon to experience snow at Dove Lake and higher elevations in these months.

Top Tip for Cradle Mountain Hiking: Check the weather forecast and conditions before you venture into the National Park. Check out the  Weather Link or stop by the visitor centre.

Avoiding Crowds

Cradle is the second most visited National Park in Tassie, attracting more than 300,000 people each year and increasing visitor numbers annually. You almost don't experience any crowds in the low season during winter. During summer, it's busy with visitors worldwide, especially at Dove Lake. Longer and more strenuous hikes are less trafficked. To get a memorable experience, visit the park early in the morning, and it gets less busy again in the late afternoon. The crowdiest months are from December to March nowadays. November and April are still busy but bearable.

Top Tip for the Peak Season : Start your hike before dawn with headlights and enjoy a breathtaking sunrise from Marians Lookout. 

Hikes and Wildlife Guide can be found below.

Packing List - 8 Tips for Cradle

Good preparation is key for the Cradle Mountain National Park, not only in the winter.

• Clothes that you can layer on.
• A rainproof jacket - softshell throughout the year.
• Gloves and a woollen hat even in summer for hikes in higher elevations.
• Hiking Boots and gaiters; gaiters protect you from the scrub. We bought them in the Cradle Mountain visitor centre.
• Hiking Poles (depending on the trails you like to do).
• Plenty of water and electrolytes , plan at least three litres for a day hike in the summer.
• Crampons during winter for hiking in higher elevations.
• A waterproof camera is the best option - showers and rain occur throughout the year.

Top Tours for Cradle Mountain and Tassie

These are my recommended tours via GetYourGuide. Thx for booking via my website! With your support, I am able to provide all information first-hand. Tour prices are at no extra cost!

Where to Stay (Hotels | Lodging Tips)

The iconic Cradle Mountain National Park, with its glaciated landscape, 25 peaks, tarns, exceptional flora and fauna, waterfalls, and hikes, attracts more and more visitors worldwide. The park is spectacular at any time of the year. Usually, visitors stay here for one or two nights which is too short, IMO. I recommend staying at least three nights if you have a day to spare.

There are different accommodation types and price categories around Cradle Mountain. Book your accommodation and self-catering cottage well in advance, otherwise, expect a much higher rate on the day of arrival. 

• Cabins and Cottages close to Cradle Mountain
• Low Budget Cabins from Discovery Park ; nice and functional – We stayed here twice and loved it! Wifi for free around the reception. The cabins are clean, the kitchen is well-equipped.

 Camping is possible around Cradle Mountain. Powered and unpowered campsites are available at Discovery Parks. Nevertheless, remember that rain and snow are common, and nights are often pretty chilly and uncomfortable; one-digit night temps throughout the year and even minus in the winter.

Best Months to Visit

Related Topics

Location and Tips

Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair National Park were established in 1971. Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area since 1982. In 1922 it was a Scenic Reserve only. It is estimated that millions of native King Billy pines were felled until the 70s. Logging was and still is a threat to the old grown forests in Tasmania. 

We spent several days at Cradle Mountain National Park in February and a year later in November, and none was very sunny. We experienced different seasons in one day except for snow in February. Due to the untamed weather, Cradle Mountain was always covered in clouds four seasons in five days.

Are you looking for stunning Cradle Mountain hiking trails from easy to strenuous? You've come to the right place. Below you can find 5 amazing trails: three at Dove Lake, which you can do from Ronny Creek and one at the Interpretation Centre, plus the famous Overland Track. For a quick overview, check out my Table of Content:

5 Amazing Walks & Hikes

Hiking in Cradle Mountain National Park is a must in all kinds of weather. We visited the park already twice, and despite the weather - snow and hail during our second visit - we would immediately love to explore one of the tracks again.

Dove Lake Car Park and Trail Head

Situated at an altitude of 940 m and nestled amongst the mountain peaks. Many hiking trails with all kinds of difficulties and fitness levels start from here, and trails are well marked. Alternatively, you can also begin the hikes from Ronny Creek at 870 m elevation. A shuttle bus leads to the Dove Lake car park as well. Parking and trailhead ( Google Maps )

1 Dove Lake Circuit Walk

2 Crater Lake Circuit Walk

It’s a very picturesque place, and we took a short photo stop. Now turn right and ascend this track until you reach Crater Peak at 1.270 m elevation. Now, it is a gentle walk in higher elevation to Marion's Lookout offering breathtaking views. Now the trail descends, leading back to where the trail forked. We took a short break on the bench at Wombat Pool, and we were still in awe of this unique landscape. It’s a short detour of 400 m return to get to the picturesque boatshed of Dove Lake, the most famous picture of all. The hike can be done in either direction throughout the year.

3 Cradle Mountain Summit Hike

This hike is the best alternative if you don’t hike the entire Overland Track to get a glimpse into the most beautiful National Park of it all. It is one of the 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania. It’s a pretty strenuous trail due to the length and the climb to the summit. It’s only for experienced hikers without any fear of heights. Know your limits. You can walk the trail in either direction. The added Locus Pro map is how I recommend hiking the trail to explore as much as possible. First, sign in to the logbook. Then hike the narrow path to Lake Lilla, Wombat Pool, and continue to Marions Lookout at 1223 m elevation.

This part takes roughly 1.5 hours. Enjoy the spectacular view of Crater Lake and Dove Lake. Now continue on the Overland Track to Kitchen Hut (1230 m), an emergency hut for overnight. To get here, add max. one hour. Most hikers leave their heavy backpacks in the shed before climbing the steep trail over boulders to the summit on 1545 m elevations. It’s frequently very windy on top but the 360° views are phenomenal. The return hike from the hut to the Cradle Mountain summit takes two to three hours. You can either choose the Face Track via Hansons Peak or Lake Wilks to the Dove Lake Circuit to get back to the car park. The way back takes roughly 2.5 hours. Take a slow pace and enjoy the spectacular scenery and nature. Don't forget to sign out.

Ronny Creek Car Park and Trailhead

The Overland Track starts from here, and also Lake Lilla and Ronny Creek are an alternative for the Dove Lake car park. If you start from Ronny, the hikes will take additional 40 minutes, depending on your pace. Wombats can be spotted here pretty often. Parking and Trailhead ( Google Maps )

4 Overland Track

65 km | 6 days | Permit

Around 8.000 people walk the Overland Track each year. Due to the weather, the most famous season is from 1. October to 31. May. Hikers are required to walk from north to south. Booking in advance is essential for peak season. The fee for adults is 200 $ plus the National Park Pass fee. From 1. June to 30. September advanced booking isn’t required.  

You can hike in either direction, and you have to pay the National Park fee only. Nevertheless, hiking in winter is recommended for experienced alpine hikers only. Expect heavy snow. Snowshoes and crampons are needed. More information and booking Overland Track

Interpretation Centre Car Park and Trailhead  

This is not the information centre; it is located two km before with huge parking. The Interpretation Centre has fauna and flora displays, and it's the ranger station as well. Some Cradle walks start here; the short Enchanted trail to an old-growth rainforest, King Billy Walk, Pencil Pine Falls Rainforest Walk, and the more challenging Dove Canyon Track.Parking and Trailhead ( Google Maps )

5 Enchanted Walk

At this trail, hiking pools are not recommended. The path is too narrow, the boardwalk easy to hike, and hiking pools are obstructive for climbing up the boulders. If you have a day to spare and you want to escape the crowds, this is your hike. Often you can find wombats and pademelons around the Interpretation Center and close to the boardwalk. Watch the path carefully in the forests; many roots are along the track.

Cradle Mountain Wildlife Guide

Cradle Mountain National Park is heaven for wildlife watching. These are the different species you may spot. Most of them are used to humans and let you watch them if you don't get too close. 

Can you imagine these cute guys are fast runners if they must evade predators? They can speed up to 40 km/h. They have poor eyesight; instead, they hear extremely well. Wombats, pademelons, and wallabies are abundant in this park. Three different species of wombats exist. They are about one meter long and dig huge burrow systems with claws and front teeth. Attacks on people with teeth and claws can happen.

Wallabies and Pademelons

They can be spotted late afternoon and evening, especially near Waldheim Lodge and Cabins. Different species of wallabies can be found everywhere in Tassie and so at Cradle Mountain. Kangaroos, wallabies, and pademelons are marsupials, all members of the same family and are often named after their habitat, like the brush wallaby, the shrub wallaby, and the rock wallaby. 

Pademelons are also frequently seen around self-catering cottages. Pademelons are shy, rarely leaving the forest or bush. Their round ears give a mouse-like looking. They have a short lifespan of 4-8 years in the wild. They have adapted to the dense rainforests where they find their food, like leaves, mosses, lichens, and ferns. They are much smaller, having shorter and thicker tails. These are solitary creatures not living in groups.

They are active until the end of summer (March/April) before hibernating again until late October to mid-November.

Tasmanian Devils

Possible to spot but rare. Unfortunately, cases of devil facial tumour disease have been reported recently. Trowunna , close to Cradle Mountain, is an excellent Wildlife Park to see the devils relatively close.

Possums are night-active and frequently seen near garbage bins and around the cottages.

They are extremely difficult to spot, coming out when it's almost dark. We haven't seen any yet.

I frequently get asked if there are snakes in Cradle. Yes, snakes are common in Australia and also in Tasmania. Snakes are most active in the warm summer. I saw several venomous snakes in Tasmania during our four-week vacation.

Do you want to obtain the usage right for my images? Contact me, but I will take action against picture theft.

Kate Abroad

Where to Stay at Cradle Mountain: Best Hotels and Areas 2024

Cradle Mountain is one of the most naturally beautiful locations in Australia and a must-visit on any trip to Tasmania. To make your vacation planning easier, this guide will help you decide where to stay in Cradle Mountain during your Tasmania trip .

Here we’ve compiled a list of all the best places in and around Cradle Mountain. We’ll go through the areas that best suit travellers, whether you want something upscale or you want to tuck away and take in the natural surroundings.

Because of how remote and cold Cradle Mountain is, you want to know that your accommodation is going to be warm and cosy and preferably offer food. Fortunately, there are several options that tick those boxes.

In fact, most of the food options in the area are hotel restaurants (including Altitude, Hellyer’s and the Peppers Tavern) so you’ll likely end up at one of these hotels even if you aren’t staying there. That’s how we saw several of these properties.

Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

If you’re in a hurry, let’s uncover the best place to stay in Cradle Mountain. The most convenient area to stay in Cradle Mountain is near the visitor centre, on Cradle Mountain Road. 

Almost all the hotels in this guide are in that area, although you will often find Cradle Mountain accommodation advertised that is further away, closer to Sheffield or Lake St Clair. While these options can be cheaper, you will end up driving a long way to the start of the hikes or to see any of the other Cradle Mountain attractions.

Cradle Mountain Hotel: Overall Best Place To Stay In Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain Hotel is where we stayed on our first visit to Cradle Mountain and we absolutely loved it. It’s a 4-star hotel that feels like it could be 5-star without the huge price tag.

If you want to spot wildlife at Cradle Mountain then this hotel is the best place to stay because it has a boardwalk out the back that loops through bush where you can see wallabies and sometimes wombats. We even saw a wombat on the side of the hotel driveway.

Cradle Mountain Hotel has the Altitude Restaurant and Bar on site which is one of the better food options in the area. Serving a mix of pub-style food in the lounge bar and fancier a la carte in the restaurant.

There are also two more lounge areas onsite, complete with cosy fireplaces to warm up post-hike, a gallery, small store (for buying extra warm clothing) and a spa.

The décor is a bit generic compared to Peppers but the restaurant and lounges have great views over the forest.

There isn’t a big difference in room types and even the standard rooms are fairly spacious. Prices start at just over $200 per night.

Tiny Escapes Cradle Valley: Best Off The Grid Place To Stay In Cradle Mountain

Tiny Escapes are the newest Cradle Mountain accommodation option and offer a unique experience for anyone looking to really immerse themselves in nature and not see any other travellers.

Tiny Escapes are a collection of tiny homes, all rented like Airbnb where you have the whole property and some surrounding grounds to yourself.

These are a great option if you are planning a romantic getaway to cradle mountain as they offer a lot of privacy and are the perfect size for a couple.

The Tiny Escapes are further away from Cradle Mountain itself than the other places in this guide so they are not the most central place to stay and you will have to drive a bit longer to get to the start of most of the hikes. However, the difference is not significant.

Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village: Best Place To Stay In Cradle Mountain For Families

The Wilderness Village has one of the best locations as it’s walking distance from the Visitor Centre where you can jump on the bus to the trailheads.

The accommodation in the village is mostly in stand—alone chalets which all have their own kitchen and lounge area, making it a great option for longer stays where you want to self-cater or for family groups.

The chalets come in a range of configurations from twin/double to two-bedroom to suit groups of different sizes.

The onsite restaurant Hellyers is known as the best fine dining at Cradle Mountain. They offer set menus with lots of Tasmanian produce.

Prices are between Cradle Mountain Hotel and Peppers, starting around $350 per night with a premium for the spa bath cottage.

Peppers Lodge: Best Luxury Accomodation In Cradle Mountain

Every iconic tourist location has a luxury hotel and Peppers Lodge is it for Cradle Mountain. If you’ve seen Instagram photos from Cradle Mountain, quite likely some of them were taken here.

The interior is kitted out like an old-school hunting lodge with lots of wood, leather armchairs and fireplaces, which feels like a welcome respite from the outdoors. 

Some rooms are located in the main building, where the tavern restaurant also is, while others are separate chalets dotted around the grounds.

For a real splurge, book the King Billy Suite which has a private outdoor hot tub.

The Lodge is surrounded by lush forest, streams and even a small waterfall with most of the rooms looking out on these views. It’s also the starting point for the Enchanted Walk, one of the most popular walks at Cradle Mountain. 

Even if you don’t decide to stay at Peppers, it’s worth making a booking at the Alpine Spa to treat yourself after a day of hiking. The spa is famous for the hot pool looking out over the forest where you can relax with champagne and strawberries.

Waldheim Cabins: Best Place To Stay In Cradle Mountain For Hiking and Big Groups

The Waldheim Cabins are the only accommodation located actually in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This means that while everyone else has to head out to their hotel at the end of the day, Waldheim guests get to spend the night amongst the incredible scenery.

The eight cabins are operated by the Tasmania Parks Service and are a very affordable option, costing less than $25 per person per night.

Facilities are fairly basic and shared between all the cabins. There are hot showers and flush toilets though so you aren’t roughing it too much!

The Waldheim cabins are the best Cradle Mountain accommodation option for large groups or big families because the cabins each fit 4 to 8 people in bunk bed configurations.

As you would expect, the cabins are in very high demand and given the limited supply, they need to be booked well in advance. You can book online through Parks Tasmania .

What to know about staying inside the Cradle Mountain Park

If you are staying at Waldheim cabins you will need to buy a Parks Pass from the visitor centre or online. It costs $25 per person for 24 hours or there are annual options.

Access to the cabins is walk-in, you can take the free shuttle bus or drive as far as the carpark but will still need to cover a few hundred metres on foot so it’s not a good option for anyone with reduced accessibility.

Discovery Park: Best Budget Accomodation in Cradle Mountain

Discovery Parks is the only place to stay with a campervan in Cradle Mountain. It’s a holiday park like many you will find if you’re campervanning in Tasmania with a mix of powered sites (from $49) and unpowered sites (from $35). These are more expensive than similar sites elsewhere in Tasmania, but the location is unbeatable. Camping sites need to be booked directly.

As well as camping sites, Discovery Park also has a few cabins on offer and hostel-style dorm rooms which are the cheapest accommodation at Cradle Mountain, perfect for budget travellers and backpackers.

You can book these cabins through Booking.com . Dorm beds start at $44 while cabins range up to $200.

Discovery Park Cradle Mountain has a full range of campsite facilities including a camp kitchen, bathrooms, laundry and even a small kiosk with some food and emergency supplies for purchase.

If you are taking a van, it is recommended to fill up with water before you go because water is limited onsite.

How Much Does It Cost to Stay in a Hotel In Cradle Mountain?

Cradle Mountain is not a cheap destination, to be totally honest. But the standard of accommodation is really high, so you are getting what you pay for.

Outside Discovery Parks and the Waldheim Cabins, all the accommodation is high-end so you can expect to stay $200+ per night (Australian dollars) for a basic room in a hotel in Cradle Mountain. Even then, you will want to book well in advance (6 months is ideal) to get a good deal.

Can you camp overnight at Cradle Mountain?

Free camping is not permitted at Cradle Mountain, even if you have a self-contained vehicle.

The only camping that is allowed is at Discovery Parks and the Waldheim Cabins which are both paid options and require pre-booking (more detail above).

If you are desperate to free camp then check the  Parks Tasmania website  for locations within driving distance of Cradle Mountain.

Best Months to Travel to Cradle Mountain

As one of the most popular places to visit in Tasmania, it’s important to consider weather patterns and events before booking your trip.

Weather in Cradle Mountain

The best time to visit Cradle Mountain is when the weather and atmosphere are clear, cool, and sunny. 

Since temperatures in Cradle Mountain never reach the highs experienced in other parts of Australia, summer (December-February) is a great time to visit if you want to spend lots of time outdoors. Average temperatures are between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. 

If you can’t make it during this time of year, we recommend going for shoulder season in spring or autumn. 

It’s best to avoid winter in Cradle Mountain as roads are often closed due to snow and ice so you risk being unable to get there. 

Find tips on driving to Cradle Mountain in the Launceston to Cradle Mountain Road Trip Guide .

Things To Do In Cradle Mountain 

There are lots of things to do in Cradle Mountain, mostly centred around nature and wildlife. You can find lots of ideas in our Cradle Mountain Day Trip Guide including the best short hikes.

In Short: Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to stay in Cradle Mountain. Above all, you can’t go wrong by staying at Cradle Mountain Hotel. But, if you’re looking for more unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences in the area, check out Tiny Escapes.

While most travellers limit their Tasmania holiday to the big three of Hobart , Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park but we recommend heading south if you have the time to check out Bruny Island and the Huon Valley .

Happy travelling!

Australia Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Pre-book your tickets to attractions on Klook
• Find awesome day tours on Viator
• Save on Sydney attractions with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your Australian dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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When is the best time to visit Italy? This is when you should go

Want to visit italy this is when you should go.

On a visit to Italy, there’s almost too much to see and do. If you’re a car enthusiast, a guided trip through the Ferrari museums in Maranello or Modena offers a singular experience. For a mix of historic charm and coastal refreshment, the Amalfi Coast delivers in spades. Then there’s the cuisine, from pizza Napoletana in Naples to sweet Tiramisu in Venice. 

Travel to Italy: timing is everything

Time to start planning your italian getaway.

So when you pack your bags and make the trip, you’ll want to arrive at the best possible time. That can vary depending on the purpose of your visit, but do not worry; we’ve done the research for you. Here’s the best time to visit Italy. 

If you’re a skier or snowboarder, you want to hit the mountain when the snow falls. Or, if you’re a golfer, a morning tee time on a sunny day makes for a pleasant round. The same holds true for traveling to Italy, where various windows suit specific interests. Additionally, it’s best to avoid the summer, where dense crowds and high prices detract from the magic. 

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Winter is best for bargain pricing and mountain adventures

Italy has some of the finest peaks in the world, with the Dolomites and Northern Alps jutting into the sky. That means world-class skiing and snowboarding, quaint mountain villages, and stunning views. Not only that, but winter also has its fair share of travel deals.

We’d visit Cortina d’Ampezzo Ski Resort for its mix of challenge and fun, delightful cuisine, and vibrant village. As part of the Dolomiti Superski, the ski area connects to 15 resorts, 450 lifts, and 740 miles of trails. With the money you save on accommodations, you can splurge on meals and shopping or afford an extra day at the resort. 

Springtime is best for pleasant weather and low crowds

Spring is an ideal time for an Italian vacation, with a mellowing climate and manageable crowds. Especially later in the season, you can find bargains on lodging, uncrowded beaches, and nature’s majesty as the surroundings blossom. 

Even though it’s a shoulder season, spring still has its share of worthwhile events. During the Giornate FAI di Primavera (FAI Spring Days), the National Trust for Italy (FAI) offers free access to hundreds of historic spaces typically not available to the public. It’s a chance to see and feel the country’s rich culture and history. 

On May 1, Labor Day, dual events showcase Italy’s vibrant arts and entertainment. La Biennale di Venezia highlights art and architecture in alternating years, and Concerto del Primo Maggio is a free music festival in Rome. All the while, displays of dance, music, and theater round out the experience. 

Summer brings crowds and higher costs

On your vacation, you want to explore and enjoy. But that can be a challenge during peak travel periods. From June through August, Italy experiences elevated crowds and higher pricing, putting a dent in what could be an epic getaway. Many Italians vacation during that time, migrating to the coast and causing prices to skyrocket. Not only that, but it can be difficult to rent a car during this hectic time.

Fall is best for wine and food aficionados

Autumn is harvest season, and an ideal time to be in country known for its food and wine. Wineries begin the grape harvest and food festivals (sagre) showcase local delicacies. Examples include truffles, porcini mushrooms, and pumpkins, offering a rare taste of Italy’s nuanced cuisine. 

Taking that even further, from October through December, the town of Alba holds the country’s largest truffle festival, Fiera Internazionale del Tartufo Bianco di Alba . You’re sure to experience tastes and aromas like never before. 

Now that you know the best time to go to Italy, it’s important to take care of several details. You’ll need a passport. Packing efficiently and effectively helps you get the most out of your trip. Finding deals on airfare and lodging allows you to stick to a budget. With all that taken care of, you’re ready to explore Italy’s vibrant art, nature, culture, and cuisine. Buon viaggio!

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Air travel opens the door to global exploration. On a sleek, fast airplane, you can reach faraway destinations in hours, not days, paving the way to new experiences. Have you always wanted to ski the Swiss Alps? Just book a flight, and you’ll be there in no time. Not to mention, you’ll enjoy the stunning views from above.

On the other hand, when returning home, getting through security can be a chore. Long lines and lengthy processes put a dent in your memorable trip. It’s a real hassle.

Have you ever wondered what gets left behind at the airport airport? Well, wonder no more! Unclaimed Baggage released its first-ever "Found Report," giving us a glimpse into the fascinating (and sometimes bizarre) items left behind by travelers in 2023. For the uninitiated, Unclaimed Baggage is a retail store that sells unclaimed and lost airline baggage and its contents (after the airlines make every effort to return the luggage to their owners, of course). So what have they found? The top 40 most fascinating finds of 2023

This list is a wild mix of the wonderful and the weird. Two live snakes slithering around at the airport? Now that's a travel story most people wouldn't want to tell!  Luxury finds like Birkin bags and Rolex watches make you wonder about the frantic searches at the baggage claim.  Musicians will be surprised to see a rare banjolele and a 4-foot tall Ethiopian harp lost in the shuffle, while gamers might mourn the misplaced Atari and Nintendo Super Famicom.  

Jet lag, the dreaded consequence of crossing multiple time zones, can wreak havoc on your body and shake up your travel plans. From headaches, to fatigue, to insomnia, jet lag can leave you feeling drained, making it difficult to enjoy your vacation. However, with a few simple adjustments, you can minimize the effects of jet lag and start enjoying your travels in no time. This is how to get over jet lag. How long can jet lag last?

While jet lag symptoms are generally temporary and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the new time zone, the duration of jet lag can vary from person to person. A few factors that influence the duration of jet lag include:

When is the best time to visit Cradle Mountain?

While there's no 'best' time to visit Cradle Mountain–Lake St. Clair National Park , some months may be more suitable depending on the activities you want to do. Visit between December and February for warmer weather, swimming and hiking, or between June and August for snowy landscapes and cosy nights around a fire. The park has a cool temperature climate and is known to have unpredictable weather (think four seasons on any given day!).

Best for: hiking, wildlife and waterfalls

The weather in Cradle Mountain is unpredictable all year, but even more so in spring. Expect any and all conditions from sun and wind to snow, sleet and rain. September can be particularly wet, with an average of 17 days of rain, but it tapers down to 13 days in November.

With rising temperatures and drier conditions in November, our trekking season on the  Overland Track  starts up again. Wildflowers start to blossom and animals become more active, so keep your eyes peeled for wallabies, brushtail possums, wombats, and, if you're lucky, a Tasmanian devil. Winter snowmelt and high rainfall also do wonders for the park’s waterfalls.

Best for: hiking, swimming and the best chance of getting good weather

Summer is typically the driest and sunniest time of year. However, it's important to bring clothing for all conditions as the weather is still highly unpredictable. (Yes, it can still snow in summer!) You're more likely to enjoy good weather in January and February which see an average maximum temperature of 18°C.

Despite being a few degrees cooler than the rest of  Tasmania , don't underestimate the UV at higher altitudes where it's easier to get sunburn. Bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and a long-sleeved shirt to cover your arms and shoulders.

Summer is the best season to tackle the iconic  Overland Track  or other hikes in the park. The landscape bursts with colour as most native wildflowers are in bloom. It's also the best time of year to swim in one of the park's lakes or waterfall-fed pools – but note that the water will still be very fresh!

Best for: hiking and seeing the park's changing colours

Dry(ish), sunny weather often continues into March. Rainfall increases in April and May, but that doesn't mean you have to stay inside. Cradle Mountain's natural beauty is on full display with the wilderness turning from bright green to moody orange and brown.

If you're embarking on one of Cradle Mountain's famous walks, then you're in for a treat with Tasmania's deciduous tree, the Fagus, changing the colour of its leaves before dropping and covering the forest floor. Tassie locals call this seasonal event 'the turning of the Fagus'.

Best for: snowy landscapes, dining at world-class restaurants and whisky tasting

With snow blanketing the peaks, the park is a sight to behold in winter. August is the wettest month with 17 days of precipitation on average, but June and July aren't far behind with an average of 14 and 16 days respectively. This means that if you visit in winter, your holiday will likely be set against a misty, rainy backdrop. But we think this makes the scenery even more mystical.

Winter is cold, with an average high temperature of 6°C to 9°C and a low of 0°C. Even on a clear, sunny day, the air is crisp, so pack warm, waterproof clothing. That being said, keep your sunscreen handy as the UV can still be strong.

Trekking the Overland Track in winter can be dangerous as the weather at higher altitudes is volatile. It's not recommended unless you're an experienced multi-day hiker and have winter-appropriate gear. Admire the wintry scenes from lower-level trails or use the weather as an excuse to indulge in Tassie's delicious local produce, whisky and wine.

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