Hike at a Glance

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Quick overview: Explore Tasmania's iconic Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park with a leisurely stroll on the Dove Lake Circuit. At 6km long and a Grade 2 difficulty, this easily accessible trail, starting and ending at Dove Lake Car Park, is ideal for bushwalkers of all levels. In just 2.25 hours, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of Cradle Mountain, historic sights like the 1940s boatshed, the unique geology of Glacier Rock, and the ancient myrtle-beech trees of the Ballroom Forest. Located near the quaint town of Cethana, this hike is a must-do for any Tasmania trip.

Length:

6km

Duration:

2.25 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 989m

Min elevation: 938m

Total Ascent: 246m

Start: Dove Lake Car Park

End: Dove Lake Car Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Tasmania

Nearby town: Cethana

From state capital: 328km

Latitude: -41.6503326143806

Longitude: 145.9612012300425

Walk map

Weather

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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 Lake Circuit is a 6km, grade 2 hike located in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. Typically completed in about 2.25 hours, this trail offers a spectacular way to explore one of Tasmania’s most iconic landscapes. The track loops around Dove Lake, providing stunning views beneath the towering peaks of Cradle Mountain. For much of the journey, the track is boardwalked, making it an easy and accessible route for walkers.

One of the highlights of the hike is Glacier Rock, an impressive geological feature that tells the story of the area's glacial past. If you look closely at the surface of the rock, you’ll notice striations running parallel to the length of the lake. These marks were caused by rocky debris trapped in a glacier that once moved down from the slopes of Cradle Mountain, carving out the basin that would become Dove Lake. As the glacier passed over the hard quartzite of Glacier Rock, the debris left behind visible scratches that have remained for thousands of years.

As you continue along the trail, you’ll reach the Ballroom Forest towards the southern end of the lake. This stunning cool temperate rainforest is home to ancient myrtle-beech trees draped in moss, creating a breathtaking atmosphere that feels almost otherworldly. The forest floor is also covered in moss, further adding to the sense of being in an ancient, untouched place. Myrtle-beeches are a key species in Tasmania's cool temperate rainforests, and their closest relatives can be found in New Zealand and South America, remnants of the time when these lands were once part of the supercontinent Gondwana.

The trail also passes by the iconic boatshed, located on the northwestern shores of Dove Lake. Built in 1940 by the first ranger at Cradle Mountain, Lionel Connell, the boatshed was constructed from King Billy pine. While some restoration work was carried out in 1983, the shed still retains much of its original charm. The boatshed was once used for boating on the lake, a popular activity up until the 1960s. In the 1920s, Gustav Weindorfer, an early advocate for the area, used a rudimentary raft made of pine logs to ferry passengers across the lake. In 1938, the Cradle Mountain Reserve Board purchased three Huon pine boats, which remained in use until the 1960s. The boatshed remains a symbol of the region’s history and offers a wonderful photo opportunity.

This hike offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty and history, from the striking glacial features to the tranquil rainforest and the charming boatshed. It’s a relatively short walk, but one that provides plenty to admire and reflect on along the way.

For more information about this hiking trail please visit Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania

Tips

Park entry fees apply.
Picnic and toilet facilities nearby.
Involves one short moderate hill.
Supervise children, waters in lake, severe weather conditions all year round, weather may change quickly, tracks are difficult to navigate when covered in snow and may be impassable.
No pets, firearms or bicycles.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file

Dove Lake Circuit Hike (6km)

Total distance: 5983 m
Max elevation: 989 m
Min elevation: 938 m
Total climbing: 246 m
Total descent: -246 m

Getting there

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

Getting to the trailhead in 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.

Get there with Google Maps

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 trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

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.

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 Lake Circuit Hike (6km)

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