Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the rugged beauty of Tasmania on the 17km Ladder Falls hike in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This Grade 4 trail, typically completed in 10 hours, takes bushwalkers through towering mountains and the stunning terrain of Lees Paddocks, culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of Ladder Falls. Experience this challenging but rewarding journey to discover hidden gems, cascading streams, and smaller waterfalls in this remote corner of Tasmania.

Length:

17km

Duration:

10 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Lees Paddocks Carpark

End: Lees Paddocks Carpark

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Tasmania

Nearby town: Mole Creek

From state capital: 312km

Latitude: -41.83327865203483

Longitude: 146.19272884991014

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Hike overview

Ladder Falls is a 17-kilometre, grade 4 hike in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania, typically taking around 10 hours to complete. The trail takes you through the stunning landscape of Lees Paddocks, a central Tasmanian area known for its towering mountains and rugged beauty, making it a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts.

Within Lees Paddocks, there are several waterfalls, and Ladder Falls stands out as one of the most impressive. Located on Ladder Creek, it is actually the second waterfall you’ll come across once you reach the creek on the western edge of the paddocks. The first waterfall is striking in its own right, and you might be tempted to think it’s the main attraction. However, by continuing up the hill on the northern side of the creek, you'll be rewarded with the sight of the much larger, multi-tiered Ladder Falls. This stunning waterfall is set within a tranquil rainforest, where ferns and mosses create an almost magical atmosphere.

As you explore the area around Ladder Creek, you’ll find more hidden gems. Continuing uphill from Ladder Falls reveals even more cascading streams and smaller waterfalls, offering plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this remote corner of Tasmania. The hike through this pristine wilderness is both challenging and rewarding, making it a memorable experience for those who enjoy the serenity and splendour of nature.

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Photography by Craig Doumouras

Walk map and GPX file

Ladder Falls Hike (17km)

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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.

To reach the trailhead at the Lees Paddocks Carpark, take the Mersey Forest Road, which is accessible from the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park area. The carpark is located at the junction of Lees Paddocks Track and Mersey Forest Road. From the main entrance of the park, follow the Cradle Mountain Road and then take a right onto Mersey Forest Road. Continue along this road until you reach the junction with Lees Paddocks Track, where the carpark will be located.

Be mindful that the roads in this area can be rough and gravel, so it’s important to drive carefully, especially in wet conditions. Once at the carpark, you’ll find access to the various hiking tracks, including the one that leads to Ladder Falls. It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions in this part of Tasmania can change quickly, particularly in the highland areas.

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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 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.

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

Ladder Falls Hike (17km)

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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

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Ladder Falls Hike (17km)