Trail Fast Facts

D'Alton Falls is a 1km, grade 4 hike in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 45 minutes to complete.

Length: 1km

Duration: 45 mins

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Return

Start: Overland Track

End: Overland Track

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Lake St Clair

From state capital: 330km

Latitude: -41.90967899591599

Longitude: 146.11951606831693

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

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Warning

D'Alton Falls is only accessible as part of the Overland Track, a multi-day hike through Tasmania's Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

D'Alton Falls is one of three stunning waterfalls along the Mersey River, accessible as part of the Overland Track, a multi-day hike through Tasmania's Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This 1 km, grade 4 trail is a worthwhile detour for hikers, typically taking around 45 minutes to complete. The falls are a highlight of the park's rugged beauty, showcasing nature at its most dramatic.

Surrounded by dense forest, the track leading to D'Alton Falls is an experience in itself. The trail winds through lush greenery, offering glimpses of native flora and fauna along the way. The forest is alive with the sounds of bird calls and rustling leaves, providing hikers with a sensory connection to the wilderness. After rain, the falls are particularly impressive, with the cascading water creating an awe-inspiring spectacle and amplifying the natural soundtrack of the area.

The viewing platform near the falls offers a serene spot to pause and take in the surroundings. If you're a keen photographer or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, this is a perfect opportunity to capture the essence of Tasmania's wild heart. The peaceful atmosphere and the rhythmic flow of water create an environment that feels far removed from everyday life, offering a moment of tranquillity for hikers.

While the track is relatively short, its grade 4 classification reflects the need for care, particularly in wet conditions when the trail can become slippery. As with all hikes in the region, it's essential to be prepared for changing weather and to respect the delicate ecosystem. D'Alton Falls is a place where nature's raw power and serenity coexist, leaving visitors with memories of a truly special place.

Tips

Plan your visit after rainfall for a more dramatic and powerful waterfall display.
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, as the walking trails can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking scenery and any wildlife you might encounter.
Aim to visit early in the morning for a more peaceful experience, avoiding the peak hours when the area can become busier.
Check the weather forecast beforehand, as conditions in the area can change quickly and affect trail safety.

Map and GPX file

D'Alton Falls Walk (1km)

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Getting there

D'Alton Falls Walk (1km)

D'Alton Falls is one of three stunning waterfalls along the Mersey River, accessible as part of the Overland Track, a multi-day hike through Tasmania's Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

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Photo gallery

Photography by Caedence Kuepper

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A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.

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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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.

Reviews

D'Alton Falls Walk (1km)

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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.

Weather

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 Fast Facts

Warning

Hike Overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

D'Alton Falls Walk (1km)