What to see in Cradle Mountain National Park, Tasmania? This area of incredible natural beauty makes a wonderful introduction to a trip to Tasmania, Australia’s small island state. Whether part of a longer trip or just a weekend break in itself, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time if you’re into hiking and nature. Read on for what to see in Cradle Mountain National Park.
Dove Lake
Dove Lake is a popular starting point for exploring Cradle Mountain National Park. It’s a short shuttle bus ride to the lake from the visitor centre. There’s a loop track taking 2-3 hours (6km) to complete a circuit of the lake. You’ll walk through beautiful rainforest and across buttongrass fields, with the magnificent Cradle Mountain itself towering above you. My favourite spot on Dove Lake is the boat shed. This little cove is a beautiful photo spot with a direct view of cradle mountain itself.
Overland Track
If you really want to get to know Cradle Mountain, you can hike the Overland Track. This 5-6 day alpine walk takes you right through the heart of the park. You do need a decent amount of experience for this one, as it’s a multi-day with some quite steep sections.
Marion’s Lookout
A popular day walk starting from Dove Lake. The track to Marion’s Lookout starts from near the boat shed. This route is fairly steep but incredibly popular for the views over Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain. There’s also a longer but less steep route up via Lake Lilla and Wombat Pool.
Hanson’s Peak
Another day walk. If on approach to Dove Lake you take the track to the left instead, you can ascend to Hanson’s peak. This short but steep climb offers stunning views over Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake. Best to only attempt this on a clear dry day as some sections are so steep that there are chains to hold on to to help pull yourself up.
Wombats
I’ve never seen so many wombats before. In the wild. Completely unfazed by my presence. If you’re a nature lover then Cradle Mountain National Park is perfect for you. The hill between Ronny Creek and the Waldheim cabins is where you are most likely to see wombats.
Tasmanian Devils
It’s very rare to see a tassie devil in the wild as they’re super shy! But luckily there is an amazing sanctuary where you can visit these adorable creatures. I did the 10:30am tour where they tell you all about the animals and their conservation efforts – highly recommend! They also have quolls – which I had never heard of before but they’re adorably cute!
Waldheim Cabins
Most visitors to Cradle Mountain National Park are bound by the shuttle bus operating hours. Or they need to make sure to drive in and out outside of those hours. But, if you stay at the Waldheim cabins you’ll be sleeping right inside the park – a fab way to get the place to yourself! Read all about staying at the Waldheim Cabins here.
Need to know
You’ll need to purchase a parks pass to be allowed into Cradle Mountain National Park.
[…] I say that staying at the Waldheim Cabins is one of the best ways to experience Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain National Park. The Waldheim Cabins are the only accommodation available inside the national park itself. So, most […]