Trail summary

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Quick overview: Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Tasmania on the 25km Reynolds Falls hike, starting and ending at Cradle Mountain Lodge in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This Grade 5 trail takes 2-3 days to explore, journeying through ancient myrtle forests, alpine meadows, and crossing serene streams. Be prepared for steep, often slippery descents, and don't forget to pause at Tumbling Creek and the Vale River before reaching the breathtaking Reynolds Falls. This challenging, yet rewarding hike is a perfect choice for photography enthusiasts and adventurous bushwalkers seeking a unique Tasmanian experience.

Length: 25km

Duration: 2-3 days

Grade 5 (Difficult)

Style: Return

Start: Cradle Mountain Lodge

End: Cradle Mountain Lodge

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Cradle Mountain Village

From state capital: 321km

Latitude: -41.59514980412611

Longitude: 145.92682063579562

Hike Overview

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Safety advice

Hiking in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park can be challenging, especially in alpine areas where conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold, wet, and windy weather at any time of year, and bring appropriate gear, like waterproof clothing and sturdy boots. The trails can be steep and rocky, so only attempt if you have a reasonable level of fitness and experience. Always check weather forecasts and track conditions before starting your hike.

Hike overview

Reynolds Falls, located in the Reynolds Falls Nature Recreation Area to the west of Cradle Mountain, is a hidden gem accessible via a challenging track. The trail begins behind Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, where you'll find a clearly marked track head. It follows the Penguin-Cradle Trail and requires a Parks Pass, available at the Visitor Centre.

The hike starts with a pleasant walk through ancient myrtle forest, leading to the Speeler Plains at 950 metres. Here, the track is easy to follow, and you'll find a logbook to sign in before continuing. The trail then descends to an old 4WD track, which can be tricky to navigate due to poorly maintained signage. After crossing Fleece Creek, the path follows the 4WD route before veering off onto Ossie's Track. This section offers beautiful forests and alpine heath, and while the track can be steep and slippery in places, it’s well marked by red blazes on trees.

After a steep descent, you'll reach Tumbling Creek, which is easier to cross than Fleece Creek. The track then climbs again before dropping another 250 metres towards the Vale River. The final 150-metre descent to Reynolds Falls is the last stretch, rewarding hikers with a spectacular view of the falls. However, the area is steep and slippery, so extra caution is required.

This hike is strenuous and can take a full day, though spending a night or two on the trail is recommended. Along the way, you’ll pass through ancient forests, alpine meadows, and streams, making it a photographer’s paradise. Despite the tough terrain, the effort is worth it for those looking for a rewarding, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Map and GPX file

Reynolds Falls Hike (25km)

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Getting there

Reynolds Falls Hike (25km)

To reach the trailhead for Reynolds Falls, head to Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, located within Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The track begins at the back of the lodge, where you’ll find a clearly marked sign for the Penguin-Cradle Trail, which is also the start of the hike to Reynolds Falls. From here, follow the track southward, and make sure to have a valid Parks Pass, which can be purchased at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. The road to the lodge is accessible by car, with ample parking available for visitors. Keep in mind that the trail is within the park’s boundaries, so a valid entry permit is required for all hikers.

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Photography by Craig Doumouras

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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 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.

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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Reynolds Falls Hike (25km)

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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

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 summary

Safety advice

Hike overview

Map and GPX file

Reynolds Falls Hike (25km)