Trail Fast Facts

Lake St Clair Walk is a 4.7km, grade 2 hike in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 1.5 hrs to complete.

Length: 4.7km

Duration: 1.5 hrs

Grade 2 (Easy)

Style: Circuit

Start: Lake St Clair Visitors Centre

End: Lake St Clair Visitors Centre

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Derwent Bridge

From state capital: 180km

Latitude: -42.11686377106071

Longitude: 146.17288114020172

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

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Hike Overview

The Lake St Clair Walk is a 4.7km, grade 2 hike in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania, and usually takes around 1.5 hours to complete. This walk is made up of three shorter tracks, with the shortest being 2.4km return. When combined, these tracks form a figure-of-eight loop that stretches 4.7km, allowing you to experience different aspects of this beautiful area. The hike is an excellent introduction to the park, offering a mix of easy walking and a range of natural sights.

One of the highlights of the walk is the Watersmeet track. This easy, 1.7km each-way route takes you to the point where the Hugel and Cuvier Rivers meet. The track follows an old logging road, originally built after bushfires in the 1960s, and offers a peaceful walk through a diverse landscape. The area’s history, combined with the tranquil riverside setting, makes for a pleasant and reflective experience.

Another standout on the route is the Larmairremener tabelti walk, an Aboriginal cultural heritage trail. This track is designed to introduce you to the Larmairremener people, who were part of the Big River Nation. The path is lined with interpretive panels that provide insight into the indigenous people of the region and their seasonal travels. The walk takes you through a variety of vegetation types, from banksias and tea-tree thickets to rainforest ferns and eucalypt stags. As you follow the moraines formed by retreating glaciers, you'll be treated to diverse landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere. The track leads you to a viewpoint above the Hugel River before descending into a rainforest area, where it rejoins the Watersmeet Track.

For those hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive platypus, the Platypus Bay track offers a 30-minute return walk. This trail follows the Cuvier River to its mouth at the lake, where it curves around the edge of the water. Platypuses are sometimes seen in this area, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, making it a great spot for a quiet, wildlife-filled experience. The combination of scenic views, peaceful tracks, and the chance to encounter wildlife makes this hike a truly enjoyable way to explore the Lake St Clair area.

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

Tips

Park entry fees apply. (Self registration park entrance.)
Visitor centre, restaurant and accommodation.
Supervise children , tracks subject to 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.

Map and GPX file

Lake St Clair Walk (4.7km)

Total distance: 4727 m
Max elevation: 787 m
Min elevation: 744 m
Total climbing: 99 m
Total descent: -99 m

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Getting there

Lake St Clair Walk (4.7km)

To reach the Lake St Clair trailhead, head for the Lake St Clair Visitor Centre at Cynthia Bay, located 2.5 hours from Hobart via the A10 Lyell Highway, or a similar distance from Launceston via the B11 Marlborough Highway and then the A10. From the A10, take the turnoff at Derwent Bridge and turn right onto Lake St Clair Road (C193), which will lead you directly to the visitor centre. As you drive through the area, be mindful of local wildlife, especially at night. Native animals often roam the roads, so it’s important to drive slowly and stay alert to ensure both your safety and that of the wildlife.

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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.

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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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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Lake St Clair Walk (4.7km)

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.

Explore Safe

While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.

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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.

Trail Fast Facts

Hike Overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

Lake St Clair Walk (4.7km)