Things to Do at Cradle Mountain
Tasmania at its wildest — the jagged peak above Dove Lake, ancient rainforest and buttongrass moorland, wombats at Ronny Creek and trails from easy loops to hard climbs.
Ways to Experience Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain is Tasmania at its wildest: the jagged peak rising above the dark water of Dove Lake, ancient rainforest and buttongrass moorland, and wombats grazing in the golden light at Ronny Creek. Set in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, it rewards a lazy loop by the lake and a hard scramble to the summit alike. Here are the experiences to build your days around — and remember, the alpine weather can bring four seasons in a day.
What to Do
Dove Lake Circuit
An easy ~6 km loop past the iconic boatshed beneath the peak.
Dove Lake Circuit → Hard climbThe Summit
A full-day scramble to the top of Cradle Mountain, weather permitting.
The summit → Multi-dayThe Overland Track
Australia’s famous 65 km, six-day walk to Lake St Clair.
Overland Track → WildlifeWildlife & Wombats
Wombats at Ronny Creek, plus wallabies, echidnas and pademelons.
Wildlife → EasyShort Walks
The Enchanted Walk and gentle boardwalks through rainforest.
Short walks → Big viewMarions Lookout
A steep climb to a sweeping view over Dove Lake and the peak.
Marions Lookout →Seasons & History
Plan Your Days
- Do Dove Lake early, and dress for four seasons in a day
- Buy a national-park pass and check the shuttle before you go
- Time it right — see the best time to visit
- Staying over catches dawn wombats and sunset — see where to stay
- Prefer guided? See our Cradle Mountain tours
Things to Do — FAQ
What are the best things to do at Cradle Mountain?
Walk the Dove Lake Circuit past the iconic boatshed, climb to Marions Lookout or the summit, watch wombats at Ronny Creek, wander the short walks, or set out on the Overland Track.
Is Cradle Mountain worth visiting?
Absolutely — Cradle Mountain, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, is one of Australia’s great alpine landscapes, with the jagged peak rising above Dove Lake, ancient rainforest, buttongrass moorland and abundant wildlife.
How long do you need at Cradle Mountain?
A full day covers Dove Lake, Ronny Creek and a short walk or two, but staying two or three days lets you add Marions Lookout, the summit (weather permitting) and quieter trails. See the best time to visit.
Do you need the shuttle bus?
A shuttle runs from the visitor centre to Dove Lake and is often mandatory in peak season. A national-park pass is also required. See getting around & the park shuttle for current details.
Cradle Mountain, Planned Around You
Dove Lake and the summit, wombats and wild alpine weather, the Overland Track and the ancient rainforest — with the planning handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry