Hike at a glance

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Quick overview: Explore the stunning wilderness of Tasmania on the challenging 12.5km Cradle Mountain Summit hike. This Grade 4 circuit walk, beginning at the Dove Lake Carpark, navigates through rugged terrain and spectacular alpine vegetation, offering panoramic views from the summit. Suitable for experienced hikers with a good level of fitness and scrambling ability, this trail provides an unforgettable 5-6 hour adventure. Don't forget to soak in the breathtaking views from Hansons Peak and Marions Lookout!

Hike length

12.5km

Average duration

5-6 hrs

Trail Difficulty

Grade 4 (Hard)

Hike Type

Circuit

Technical details

Max elevation: 1512m
Min elevation: 932m
Total Ascent: 886m

Start: Dove Lake Car Park

End: Dove Lake Car Park

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearest town: Cethana

State capital distance: 328km

Latitude: -41.65048493

Longitude: 145.96153378486636

Hike details

Difficulty

Planning

Safety

Getting there

The region

Nearby hikes

Weather

Trail details

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 summary

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.

Track difficulty

Grade 4 (hard) badge

Grade 4 (Hard)

Steep, rough, and demanding
These are challenging walks suited to experienced hikers. Expect sustained climbs, rough and uneven terrain, and longer distances.

Tracks may be less defined, and signage can be limited, so navigation awareness is important. These walks require good fitness, confidence on difficult terrain, and the ability to manage fatigue over time.

Safety note: Fatigue, poor navigation, or a sudden weather change can turn a hard walk into a serious situation.

Planning essentials

Practical Information:

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

GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.

Safety and preparation

Planning this hike?

Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Interactive Safety Scenarios. Then refer to the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.

Let someone know

Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.

Free checklists

Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.

Getting there

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

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.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here →

Get there with Google Maps

Access Conditions:

Entry Fee

Accommodation nearby

Find hotels, cabins, and campgrounds near the trailhead. Click the button below to open an interactive map automatically centred on this hike's location — no searching required.

Find Accommodation

Or browse accommodation in nearby towns: Burnie, Cradle Mountain, Deloraine, Derwent Bridge, Devonport, Dove Lake, Lake St Clair, Launceston, Moina, Mole Creek, Queenstown, Rosebery, Sheffield, Strahan, Tullah, Waratah

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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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Weather on the trail

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

The map below shows the rain forecast for the trail area. Tap the toggle in the top right corner to explore other layers including wind, temperature, UV index, thunderstorms, fire danger, and weather warnings — all useful for planning a safe hike.

Trail Reviews

Acknowledgement of Country

Cradle mountain summit hike (12. 5km) trail hiking australia

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a glance

Technical details

Trail details

Hike summary

Track difficulty

Grade 4 (Hard)

Planning essentials

Map and GPX file

Safety and preparation

Planning this hike?

Let someone know

Free checklists

Getting there

Accommodation nearby

Discover more

About the region

Explore nearby hikes

Crater Lake Circuit Hike (7.3km)

Dove Lake Circuit Hike (6km)

Hansons Peak – Little Horn & Lake Wilks Hike (10km)

Dove Lake Circuit & Marions Lookout Hike (10km)

Photo gallery

Weather on the trail

Trail Reviews

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Notice something different about this trail?

Acknowledgement of Country

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

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