Ronny Creek to Cradle Mountain Summit (14km)

Other walks in the area

Dove Lake Circuit

Duration: 2 hours
This gentle loop is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, offering stunning views of Cradle Mountain, lush temperate rainforest, quartzite beaches, and subalpine flora. Starting from the Dove Lake car park, the track follows the left side of the lake, winding through rainforest and alongside pristine beaches. Highlights include the enchanting Ballroom Forest and the picturesque boat shed before completing the loop back to the car park.

Marion's Lookout

Duration: 2.5 hours

Marion's Lookout can be reached via two routes. The scenic path passes Lake Lilla and Wombat Pool, offering gradual inclines and stunning scenery along the way. For those seeking a quicker but more challenging option, take the direct route from the boat shed up the steep incline. Be prepared for the climb—it’s a workout, but the panoramic views are well worth the effort.

Hansons Peak

Duration: 3.5 hours
Start on the left side of Dove Lake and ascend to Hansons Peak, where spectacular views await. From there, continue along the Face Track, descend past Lake Wilks, and return via the Ballroom Forest, finishing along the right side of Dove Lake. While the trek offers incredible scenery, note that the climbs to Hansons Peak and the descent past Lake Wilks are steep and may be challenging for some.

Crater Peak

Duration: 2.5 hours
This route begins at the Ronny Creek car park and follows the Overland Track before branching off onto the Horse Track. You can return the same way for a straightforward hike. For a longer option, continue to the junction near Kitchen Hut, then descend via Marion's Lookout, passing Crater Lake and Crater Falls on your way back to Ronny Creek. This extended route takes about 4.5 hours and includes additional scenic highlights.

Dove Canyon Track

Duration: 3 hours
Depart near the Cradle Mountain Lodge and follow the Pencil Pine River past Knyvet Falls. The track climbs through the rugged Dove Canyon gorge, passing myrtle rainforest before opening onto buttongrass plains and forested areas near Quailes Hill. It loops back to Cradle Mountain Road, requiring a 700-metre walk to the visitor centre.

Cradle Mountain Summit

Duration: 5.5 hours
The fastest route to Cradle Mountain’s summit begins with a steep ascent to Marion’s Lookout from Dove Lake, returning via Wombat Pool. While steep, it’s manageable for experienced hikers but should be avoided in icy or poor weather due to exposure. From Kitchen Hut, the summit return trip takes about two hours, with the path marked by cairns and red paint on rocks. The final stretch involves scrambling over large dolerite boulders, leading to the summit marked by a direction table highlighting features of northern Tasmania’s stunning landscape. For a slightly easier alternative, start from Ronny Creek along the Overland Track, passing Crater Peak and following the Horse Track. This option adds about an hour but offers a gentler approach.

Other Short Walks Around Cradle Mountain

• Pencil Pine Falls and Rainforest Walk: A peaceful 20-minute circuit near the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre.
• Enchanted Walk: A 20-minute loop starting at the bridge near the National Park entrance, perfect for a quick nature fix.
• Knyvet Falls Walk: A 40-minute return walk beginning across from the Cradle Mountain Lodge.
• King Billy Walk: Starting at the Cradle Mountain Lodge car park, this walk takes you through ancient forests featuring majestic King Billy pines.
• Waldheim and Weindorfer’s Forest Walk: A 20-minute circuit from Waldheim Chalet, offering insight into Gustav Weindorfer’s pioneering life at Cradle Mountain.
• Lake Lilla Walk: A short 30-minute return walk from the Dove Lake car park, ideal for a relaxed stroll.
• Cradle Valley Boardwalk: This 2.75-hour walk stretches from the Visitor Centre to Dove Lake. It can be broken into three sections: Visitor Centre to Snake Hill (1 hour), Snake Hill to Ronny Creek (45 minutes), and Ronny Creek to Dove Lake via Lake Lilla (1 hour).

These trails showcase Cradle Mountain's diverse landscapes, making it easy to find an option that suits your pace and interests.