Trail summary

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Quick overview: Experience the tranquillity of Tasmania's Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park on the Crater Falls trail – a scenic 4km return journey starting and ending at Ronny Creek Carpark. This Grade 2, 1.5-hour hike is perfect for all levels, offering picturesque views of the first waterfall on the Overland Track. Don't forget to sign the logbook at Ronny Creek before hitting the trail, and take the left path when the road splits to reach the falls. Whether you're a seasoned bushwalker or a beginner looking for a short but rewarding adventure, this trail is a must-visit in Cradle Mountain Village vicinity.

Length: 4km

Duration: 1.5 hrs

Grade 2 (Easy)

Style: Return

Start: Ronny Creek Carpark

End: Ronny Creek Carpark

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Cradle Mountain Village

From state capital: 321km

Latitude: -41.63597302844412

Longitude: 145.9491017460823

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Hike overview

Crater Falls is a beautiful 4-kilometre, grade 2 hike located in the heart of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. This easy-to-moderate walk usually takes about 1.5 hours to complete and is a great introduction to the many stunning waterfalls found within the park. Crater Falls marks the first waterfall on the Overland Track when walking from Cradle Mountain towards Lake St Clair, making it a popular stop for hikers.

The trail begins at the Ronny Creek carpark, where it’s important to sign the logbook and note your trip intentions before venturing into the World Heritage area. Once you're signed in, cross the road and start your journey along the Overland Track. The path begins with a purpose-built boardwalk, providing an easy and pleasant start before transitioning into a well-maintained walking track. After about 1.2 kilometres, the trail splits into two routes. To reach Crater Falls, take the left-hand track, which leads to the waterfall and the nearby Crater Lake. Along the way, you can explore side tracks that take you to other iconic spots within the World Heritage Area, such as Dove Lake and Marions Lookout. This hike offers a great mix of natural beauty and accessible adventure.

Map and GPX file

Crater Falls Walk (4km)

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Getting there

Crater Falls Walk (4km)

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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Photography by Craig Doumouras

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Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

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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Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.

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Crater Falls Walk (4km)

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe

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Acknowledgement of Country

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.

Trail summary

Hike overview

Map and GPX file

Crater Falls Walk (4km)