Trail summary
Hike overview
The Mt Rufus Circuit is a 19km, grade 4 hike in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania, which typically takes around 7 hours to complete. This challenging yet rewarding hike offers stunning views of Lake St Clair, Mount Olympus, Frenchmans Cap, and the headwaters of the Franklin River, making it a must-do for avid hikers seeking a connection with Tasmania’s wild landscapes.
The walk begins through eucalypt forest, with the vegetation gradually changing as you gain altitude. In the gullies, you'll find patches of cool temperate rainforest, while higher up, the forest gives way to sub-alpine areas dominated by snow gums and stunted rainforest. Approaching the summit, the landscape transitions into alpine plant communities that bloom in a vibrant display of fragrant flowers during late spring and early summer. This gradual shift in vegetation highlights the diverse ecosystems found along the track.
One of the standout features of the hike is the area below the summit, where wind and rain have sculpted the sandstone into a variety of intriguing shapes. These sandstone blocks are nearly 300 million years old, remnants of a continuous layer that once spanned much of Tasmania. Over time, magma intruded through the sandstone, forming dolerite that now caps the sandstone layer. Both layers have been shaped by the elements—wind, rain, snow, and glacial action—over millennia.
The track also passes through Richea Valley, located between Mount Rufus and Mount Hugel. The valley is named for the pandani and scoparia plants that thrive there, both members of the Richea genus. The vibrant colours of flowering scoparia, ranging from reds and pinks to yellows and whites, add another layer of beauty to this already breathtaking hike.
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
Max elevation: 1395 m
Min elevation: 755 m
Total climbing: 764 m
Total descent: -764 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Sheffield, Mole Creek, Queenstown, Tullah, Rosebery
To reach the Mt Rufus Circuit trailhead, head to Lake St Clair, which is approximately 2.5 hours from Hobart via the A10 Lyell Highway, or a similar distance from Launceston via the B11 Marlborough Highway, followed by the A10. When you reach Derwent Bridge, take a right turn onto Lake St Clair Road (C193), which will lead you towards the visitor centre at Cynthia Bay. While travelling, please be mindful of wildlife, particularly at night. The roads are home to native animals, so it’s important to drive carefully, keeping a lookout for animals crossing, especially during dusk and dawn.
Access conditions
- 2WD Access
- 4WD Access
- Public Transport
- Bitumen Road
- Gravel Road
- Steep Road
- Winding Road
- Speed Bumps
- Vehicle Ford
- Entry Fee
- Large Car Park
- Small Car Park
- Accessible Parking
- Accessible Toilet
- Public Toilets
- Drinking Water
- Untreated Water
- Picnic Shelter
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
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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Let someone know
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.
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
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.
3 Reviews on “Mount Rufus Circuit Hike (19km)”
Al Mountbatten
Catherine Reid
One of my favourite day hikes…the changing terrain and vegetation is amazing ? If you haven’t done this add it to your bucket list ?
VThis looks good for a hike Richard,I take it that you have been here .?
Yep… it’s a great walk… and if the weather permits – head along to Platypus Bay, and have a swim!