Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the diverse landscapes of Tasmania with a moderate 6.3km hike on the Dove Canyon trail in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This 2.5-hour circuit features stunning waterfalls, dense bush, rocky scrambles, and open areas. Starting at the Interpretation Centre, you'll pass by Pencil and Knyvet Falls and traverse alongside the canyon. Perfect for bushwalkers seeking a relaxed pace and scenic beauty without the crowds.

Length:

6.3km

Duration:

2.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 874m

Min elevation: 729m

Total Ascent: 284m

Start: Cradle Mountain Interpretation Centre

End: Cradle Mountain Interpretation Centre

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Tasmania

Nearby town: Sheffield

From state capital: 320km

Latitude: -41.596032394760336

Longitude: 145.93099950939205

Overview

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7,665 views

Safety advice

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 Dove Canyon trail is a 6.3km, grade 3 hike in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania, typically taking about 2.5 hours to complete. While often overlooked by visitors, this hike offers a wonderful mix of features that make it well worth the time, especially when the weather is less favourable around the mountain. Along the way, you'll experience a variety of landscapes, including beautiful waterfalls, dense bush, a little rock scrambling, a canyon, and open areas. In many ways, it captures much of what the park has to offer in a compact trail.

Start by parking at the Interpretation Centre, then cross the bridge to begin the trail. The track starts just opposite the shop, and as you make your way along, be sure to take the short diversions to view the Pencil and Knyvet Falls. These spots offer a nice opportunity to stop and enjoy the beauty of the area before continuing on the main trail.

About 3km into the hike, you'll reach Dove Canyon. The trail hugs the side of the canyon here, and you'll encounter some short but steep rock scrambles. This section adds a bit of a challenge but is a fun and rewarding part of the journey. After passing through the canyon, the trail opens up, and the terrain becomes a little easier to navigate. Continue along the path until you reach a junction at around 4.5km. Take the right turn here to head back to the car park, completing the loop.

The Dove Canyon trail offers a great opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park without the crowds, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area's beauty at a relaxed pace.

Tips

The circuit can be taken either way, but as written means you will be going up the rock scrambling sections. If you prefer to take those down then take the opposite way.
Ensure you know the weather forecast for the day and be prepared for any conditions as the weather is very unpredictable at all times of the year.
Hiking poles will be very useful for this.

Gallery

Dove Canyon Hike (6.3km)

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Walk map and GPX file

Dove Canyon Hike (6.3km)

Total distance: 6301 m
Max elevation: 874 m
Min elevation: 729 m
Total climbing: 284 m
Total descent: -284 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: 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.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Burnie, Cradle Mountain, Deloraine, Derwent Bridge, Devonport, Dove Lake, Lake St Clair, Launceston, Moina, Mole Creek, Queenstown, Rosebery, Sheffield, Strahan, Tullah, Waratah

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.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews

Dove Canyon Hike (6.3km)

8 Reviews on “Dove Canyon Hike (6.3km)”

Overall rating

Kirsty Reidy

Mark Goodwin one for the list

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Suggest an edit

Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Safety advice

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Dove Canyon Hike (6.3km)

Walk map and GPX file

Dove Canyon Hike (6.3km)

Dove Canyon Hike (6.3km)

Getting there

About the region

Similar walks nearby

Pencil Pine King Billy Tracks Hike (8.8km)

Crater Lake Circuit Hike (7.3km)

Dove Lake Circuit & Marions Lookout Hike (10km)

Bridal Veil Falls Hike (5km)

Track grade

Explore safe

Packing checklists

Let someone know

Reviews

Dove Canyon Hike (6.3km)