Trail summary

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Quick overview: Experience breathtaking views of Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain with the challenging yet rewarding 10km hike up Hansons Peak, situated in the stunning Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. With a Grade 4 difficulty, this circuit trail offers a thrilling scramble, ancient rainforest passage, and panoramic views of Lake Lilla and Lake Hanson. The journey starts and ends at Dove Lake, passing by the Little Horn, Lake Hanson, Twisted Lakes, and Lake Wilks. Don't miss out on this unforgettable Tasmanian bushwalking experience!

Length: 10km

Duration: 4 hrs

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Circuit

Start: Dove Lake Carpark

End: Dove Lake Carpark

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Cradle Mountain Village

From state capital: 320km

Latitude: -41.65125453317648

Longitude: 145.96146941185

Hike Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

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Hike overview

Hansons Peak offers some of the most stunning views in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Situated directly across Dove Lake from Marions Lookout, it provides a unique vantage point of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake, along with sweeping views of Lake Lilla and Lake Hanson. On clear days, the view stretches all the way to Mt Pelion East in the distance.

The hike to Hansons Peak via Little Horn and Lake Wilks covers 10 kilometres and is rated Grade 4, typically taking around 4 hours to complete. The journey begins at Dove Lake, where you'll follow a path that includes a fun and challenging scramble with the help of a chain. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain, especially the Little Horn aspect of the mountain. Along the way, you'll pass Lake Hanson and Twisted Lakes, adding to the beauty of the hike.

Before reaching the summit, you’ll come across a small Ranger Hut, which makes a great spot for a brief rest. From there, the trail continues on the Face Track, leading to a steep descent toward Lake Wilks. This section offers a bit of a scramble, but the descent eventually brings you to the shores of Dove Lake. As you make your way through the Ballroom Forest, a lush and ancient temperate rainforest, you'll get a true sense of Tasmania's natural beauty. The combination of challenging terrain and stunning scenery makes this hike a memorable experience.

Description and GPX file courtesy of Michelle Cox.

Tips

Bring plenty of water, sturdy hiking boots, and a packed lunch.
Consider starting the hike mid-morning to enjoy lunch with stunning views from Hansons Peak.
Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changing conditions, as the weather can be unpredictable year-round.

Map and GPX file

Hansons Peak - Little Horn & Lake Wilks Hike (10km)

Total distance: 10775 m
Max elevation: 1090 m
Min elevation: 820 m
Total climbing: 777 m
Total descent: -774 m

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Getting there

Hansons Peak - Little Horn & Lake Wilks Hike (10km)

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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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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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans

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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Hansons Peak - Little Horn & Lake Wilks Hike (10km)

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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

Hansons peak - little horn & lake wilks hike (10km)

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

Tips

Map and GPX file

Hansons Peak - Little Horn & Lake Wilks Hike (10km)