Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
This short, scenic walk near the Cradle Mountain Discovery Centre and Cradle Mountain Lodge takes you through a tranquil myrtle rainforest to a viewing platform overlooking the top of Knyvet Falls. A short side track leads to the base of Pencil Pine Falls, making this a great option for those seeking a brief and accessible nature experience in the Cradle Mountain area. The 500-metre, grade 2 walk typically takes about 25 minutes to complete.
The trail begins on the boardwalk across the road from the Cradle Mountain Lodge shop, clearly signposted for Knyvet Falls and the Dove Canyon Circuit. You’ll first cross an open buttongrass field, a habitat that’s home to wombats, so keep an eye out for these delightful creatures. Soon, the trail descends into an enchanting myrtle rainforest via a set of stairs. Visiting this forest at different times of day reveals unique lighting effects that enhance the atmosphere.
At the bottom of the stairs, you’ll find the side track to Pencil Pine Falls. This short detour is well worth taking, whether at the beginning or end of your walk, offering a different perspective of the surrounding natural beauty.
Continuing along the main trail, you’ll follow a well-maintained boardwalk that winds through the rainforest alongside Pencil Pine Creek. The gentle track makes it easy to take your time, soaking in the lush greenery and the calming sounds of the water. The trail concludes at Knyvet Falls, where you can pause to enjoy the view before retracing your steps. For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Dove Canyon Circuit branches off here, but it requires a higher level of fitness and involves some scrambling.
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Walk map and GPX file
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
Cradle Mountain, located at the northern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, is accessible from various directions. If you’re travelling from Devonport, it’s a 1.5-hour drive south via the B19 and B14 through Sheffield, followed by the C136 and C132 to the park entrance. From Launceston, the journey takes about 2.5 hours via the Bass Highway (A1) before following the signposted route through Sheffield on the B13 and C156.
Visitors arriving from the west can reach the park in 2 hours from Queenstown via the A10 and C132 or in 1.5 hours from Burnie, travelling through Ridgley on the B18 and continuing on the A10 and C132. Once at Cradle Mountain Village, you have the option to either park and take the convenient shuttle bus or drive directly to the Interpretation Centre to start your adventure.
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
Cradle Mountain, located at the northern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, is accessible from various directions. If you're travelling from Devonport, it’s a 1.5-hour drive south via the B19 and B14 through Sheffield, followed by the C136 and C132 to the park entrance. From Launceston, the journey takes about 2.5 hours via the Bass Highway (A1) before following the signposted route through Sheffield on the B13 and C156.
Visitors arriving from the west can reach the park in 2 hours from Queenstown via the A10 and C132 or in 1.5 hours from Burnie, travelling through Ridgley on the B18 and continuing on the A10 and C132. Once at Cradle Mountain Village, you have the option to either park and take the convenient shuttle bus or drive directly to the Interpretation Centre to start your adventure.
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 2 (Easy) -Â 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
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.