Hike at a Glance

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:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Cradle Mountain Lodge

End: Cradle Mountain Lodge

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Tasmania

Nearby town: Cradle Mountain Village

From state capital: 321km

Latitude: -41.59514980412611

Longitude: 145.92682063579562

Overview

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Important info

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.

Gallery

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Photography by Craig Doumouras

Walk map and GPX file
Reynolds Falls Hike (25km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

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.

Get there with Google Maps

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

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 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 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.

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

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Reynolds Falls Hike (25km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Important info

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Reynolds Falls Hike (25km)