Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Get up close with Tasmania's stunning rainforest on the Enchanted Forest Walk, a 1.6km, Grade 2 trail in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, near Cethana. This easy circuit, which starts and ends at the Cradle Mountain Visitors Centre, is an ideal pick for all ages with a mix of buttongrass moorland and cool, temperate rainforest landscapes. Expect delightful sights like a cascading river, playful interpretive tunnels, and the chance to spot common wombats around their burrows. A perfect blend of natural beauty and wildlife encounters, this walk is a must for a relaxed family outing.

Length:

1.6km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 823m

Min elevation: 802m

Total Ascent: 33m

Start: Cradle Mountain Visitors Centre

End: Cradle Mountain Visitors Centre

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Tasmania

Nearby town: Cethana

From state capital: 321km

Latitude: -41.59602838301203

Longitude: 145.9310102623744

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Hike overview

The Enchanted Forest Walk is a 1.6km, grade 2 trail located in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. Taking around 45 minutes to complete, this walk is perfect for visitors of all ages. It’s an easy, scenic route that offers a delightful mix of nature, from a cascading river to wombat burrows, and the enchanting atmosphere of old-growth rainforest.

Starting out, the track takes you through buttongrass moorland before leading you into the cool, temperate rainforest along the edges of Pencil Pine Creek. As you walk, you’ll come across three interpretive tunnels, which are sure to bring out the playful side of both children and adults. Crawling through these tunnels adds a bit of fun to the experience, making it an enjoyable outing for families.

Along the western bank of Pencil Pine Creek, you’ll spot several wombat burrows just off the track. While wombats are more commonly seen at dawn or dusk, they are often active in the area. The species found in Tasmania is the common wombat, one of only three wombat species in Australia. These fascinating creatures are the largest burrowing mammals, and their burrows can extend up to 20 metres in length and more than 2 metres below ground. Wombats use their powerful legs and strong claws to dig their burrows, and their constantly growing front teeth—similar to a beaver’s—help them chew through any obstacles they encounter. Female wombats also have a unique backward-facing pouch to prevent dirt and debris from entering while they burrow.

This short but charming walk provides a relaxing opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Tasmania, with the added bonus of wildlife encounters and some light-hearted moments along the way. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the magic of the rainforest while learning about the fascinating creatures that call it home.

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.

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Walk map and GPX file

Enchanted Forest Walk (1.6km)

Total distance: 1597 m
Max elevation: 823 m
Min elevation: 802 m
Total climbing: 33 m
Total descent: -33 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.

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

Enchanted Forest Walk (1.6km)

8 Reviews on “Enchanted Forest Walk (1.6km)”

Overall rating

Darren Hocking

So many great short walks in that area, and too many people miss them as in a hurry to get on overland track.

31/12/2024, 23:00

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1. Trail Hiking Australia
  
  Darren Hocking totally agree. I love this walk. My wife and I are sitting on the boat, heading back to Vic after a few amazing weeks exploring Tassie a bit more. It’s often the little gems that surprise the most.
  
  04/01/2025, 08:09
  
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  1. Darren Hocking
    
    Trail Hiking Australia I’ve worked a few summers and spent a lot of time exploring for fun. It’s always too short, but the winters are too long.
    
    04/01/2025, 09:50
    
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Mandy Pitt

It is beautiful. One of the many walks I did while visiting Tassie last December.

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Sheryl Bayliss

Looks beautiful

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Melinda Ritchie

Nat Fordred

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Sarah Millard

Renee Magor

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Libby Dukes

This is such a lovely walk and great for young kids too.

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Brandon Leaning

Penny Felton

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Julia Vaughan

Simone Amos see… ??âœ¨

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Loretta Guthrie

Melody Perrin This is the most beautiful short walk in Tassie i mentioned to you.

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Bree Bonaccorso

Oliver Bonaccorso

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Natalie Turner

I’ve been here and done this ?

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Shannon Maes

Shaye Meaghan Scotney

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Anne Xavier

Greg

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Haidee Leigh

Sheryl Bayliss

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Libby Dukes

This is such a lovely walk and great for young kids too.

16/02/2022, 11:59

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Enchanted Forest Walk (1.6km)