Trail Fast Facts

Cradle Mountain Summit is a 12.5km, grade 4 hike in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 5-6 hours to complete.

Length: 12.5km

Duration: 5-6 hrs

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Circuit

Start: Dove Lake Car Park

End: Dove Lake Car Park

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Cethana

From state capital: 328km

Latitude: -41.65048493

Longitude: 145.96153378486636

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

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Warning

Hiking in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park can be challenging, especially in alpine areas where conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold, wet, and windy weather at any time of year, and bring appropriate gear, like waterproof clothing and sturdy boots. The trails can be steep and rocky, so only attempt if you have a reasonable level of fitness and experience. Always check weather forecasts and track conditions before starting your hike.

Hike Overview

The Cradle Mountain Summit hike is a challenging 12.5 km, Grade 4 walk through the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park in Tasmania. The hike typically takes between 5 and 6 hours, depending on your pace and experience. This route offers incredible views and a sense of adventure, but it requires a good level of fitness, rock scrambling skills, and a head for heights.

The main track to the summit starts at the Dove Lake Carpark, where you’ll follow the path along the lake and pass Glacier Point. Take the opportunity to enjoy the views before continuing along the track towards a junction that leads up to Hansons Peak. From here, the track begins a steady climb with some steep sections where you’ll need to scramble over rocks, so it's important to take your time and watch your footing. At the junction with the Twisted Lakes track, continue right towards Hansons Peak. The views from the top of Hansons Peak are incredible, so take a moment to soak them in before continuing.

From Hansons Peak, follow the track until you reach Rangers Hut, where you’ll join the Face Track. This part of the walk is particularly rugged, with more steep and challenging sections that require good scrambling ability. If you find this section difficult, it’s worth reconsidering your attempt to reach the summit, as the terrain only becomes more challenging. The Face Track eventually leads you to the Cradle Plateau, where you’ll be surrounded by Tasmania’s unique alpine vegetation.

The final stretch to the summit is marked by dolerite scree and towering rock formations. The climb up to the summit becomes progressively harder, so if you're finding it too difficult or uncomfortable, it's best to turn back. The trail markers can be hard to spot in places, so be sure to mentally note where they are as you go along. The last section can take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on your climbing ability.

Once at the summit, the panoramic views are well worth the effort. Take your time to enjoy the scenery, but be mindful that the descent can also be tricky. Head back down towards Kitchen Hut, where you can take a break. From there, you can follow the Overland Track towards Marions Lookout, another great spot for views. If you prefer a shorter return, you can take a right turn down to Dove Lake. Otherwise, continue left towards Wombat Peak, then follow the trail to Wombat Pool and Lake Lilla.

At Lake Lilla, stay on the right side of the trail, and when you reach the next junction near the boat shed, turn left to complete the loop and return to the Dove Lake Carpark. This route offers a rewarding mix of stunning views and a real sense of adventure for those prepared to take on its challenges.

Tips

You can complete the circuit in either direction. This description follows the route via Hansons Peak, but you can also start with Lake Lilla and Marions Lookout. Both options take roughly the same amount of time.
Always check the weather forecast before you set out. The weather in this region is highly unpredictable, so be prepared for any conditions, no matter the time of year.
This hike is long and challenging, requiring a high level of fitness, experience, and a head for heights. It is not suitable for beginners.
Hiking poles are highly recommended for added stability, especially on steep or uneven terrain.
Park entry fees apply.
Toilets are available at Dove Lake and the Visitor Centre. Picnic tables can be found at Ronny Creek.
The hike includes a 600m climb, with some sections requiring you to cross large rocks. The track starts at 900m and ascends to 1545m.
Always supervise children and be cautious around the lake’s waters. Severe weather conditions can occur at any time, and the weather can change quickly. Snow may cover tracks, making navigation difficult or impassable.
Pets, firearms, and bicycles are not permitted in the park.

Map and GPX file

Cradle Mountain Summit Hike (12.5km)

Total distance: 12534 m
Max elevation: 1512 m
Min elevation: 932 m
Total climbing: 886 m
Total descent: -885 m

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Getting there

Cradle Mountain Summit Hike (12.5km)

Getting to the Cradle Mountain trailhead is straightforward, with several options depending on your starting point. From Devonport, it’s a 1.5-hour drive via the B19 and B14 south to Sheffield, then along the C136 and C132 to the park entrance. If you're coming from Launceston, allow 2.5 hours, taking the Bass Highway (A1) before following the signposted route via B13 and C156 through Sheffield. Travelling from the west, it’s a 2-hour drive along the A10 and C132 from Queenstown or 1.5 hours from Burnie via B18 through Ridgley, then the A10 and C132 to the park. Once at Cradle Mountain Village, you can either take the convenient shuttle bus or drive to the Dove Lake Carpark. If opting for the shuttle, be sure to check the last departure time, as hikes in this stunning area can be time-consuming.

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Photo gallery

Main image by Laura Smetsers

Track Grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

About the region

Exploring Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, located in the heart of Tasmania, is an extraordinary destination within the Tasmanian World Heritage Area. Just over two hours’ drive (150 km) from Launceston and around four hours (250 km) from Hobart, this park is celebrated for its striking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundance of wildlife. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply enjoy the serenity of nature, this park has something to offer.

The park is a showcase of nature's diversity, from glacial lakes and alpine moorlands to dense rainforests and dramatic peaks. Its seasonal transformations are equally captivating. Winter blankets the terrain with snow, while autumn brings vibrant hues as the deciduous fagus turns shades of yellow, orange, and red. In spring, the bushland comes alive with joeys and echidnas, while summer invites visitors to wade into crystal-clear lakes framed by blooming wildflowers.

Cradle Mountain itself is an icon of the park, offering a network of walking tracks for all levels. Easy strolls take you through lush forests and past tranquil streams, while more challenging hikes, such as the renowned Overland Track, traverse rugged terrain. Spanning 80 kilometres and typically completed in 5-6 days, the Overland Track is a must for experienced bushwalkers, offering a journey through breathtaking alpine scenery. For those who prefer shorter walks, the park’s well-maintained trails make exploring its wonders accessible to everyone.

Lake St Clair, situated at the southern end of the park, is equally enchanting. Known as leeawuleena—‘sleeping water’—by the Aboriginal people, the lake exudes tranquillity, particularly on calm days when its glassy surface reflects the surrounding landscape. Lake St Clair is the endpoint of the Overland Track, making it a rewarding finish line for hikers who’ve traversed the park’s diverse terrain.

Beyond the iconic multi-day hike, Lake St Clair offers an array of bushwalks and trails. Short tracks wind through ancient rainforests, while longer paths lead to stunning mountain summits and secluded alpine lakes. Each trail promises an immersive experience, with the chance to encounter wildlife like wombats, platypus, Tasmanian devils, and the distinctive black currawong along the way.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park combines natural beauty, adventure, and opportunities for reflection, ensuring every visit is unforgettable. Whether you're seeking an adventurous hike, a casual walk, or a family-friendly outing, this park provides it all.

Want to find the best trails in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.

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Cradle Mountain Summit Hike (12.5km)

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.

Explore Safe

While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.