Best 7 Cradle Mountain Hikes: Trail Length, Time & Difficulty

Is Cradle Mountain Good For Hiking?

Cradle Mountain's visitor centre (north of the city) is two hours drive west of Launceston and four hours west of Hobart. The visitor centre (north of the town) is two hours west of Launceston and four hours west of Hobart. In 1827, explorer Joseph Fossey named it Cradle Mountain because he thought it resembled a miner's cradle. Geologists estimate that about 10,000 years ago, glaciers eroded the underlying rock during the last Ice Age and formed the great Cradle Mountain.

Cradle Mountain is the most famous mountain in Tasmania, Australia. Jag-shaped and 1,545 meters above sea level, this renowned peak offers panoramic views of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park. Dense rainforests, deep river valleys, glacial lakes, and rugged ancient peaks create a wild and diverse landscape. Thousands of climbers attempt to reach the highest peak of Cradle Mountain each year.

Best Time to Visit Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is a great place with unique views all year round. However, the most popular season is the glorious summer between December and February, when the weather is warm and there is little rain. Spring has many rainy days, but if you don't mind the wet weather, you can see the valley of wildflowers and wild animals.

In the fall, dress appropriately for the cold, damp weather, and you'll see the forest covered in warm golden colours. In winter, the snow-capped peaks of Cradle Mountain add to its mystery and beauty.

Entrance Fees to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

You should buy tickets at the visitor centre or the Peppers Mountain Lodge reception.

The following are the fees for Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park:

*Note: You must collect your park entry from the Visitor Center even if you have previously purchased a holiday pass. Passes can be purchased online (Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service), at national park visitor centres (Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre) and tourist information centres. 

Your Holiday Pass gives you access to Tasmania's National Parks, including Cradle Mountain. Buying a holiday pass is excellent if you mean to hike in Tasmania instead of just climbing to the top of Cradle Mountain.

Cradle Mountain Hiking Essentials  

What should you pack to hike Cradle Mountain? Cradle Mountain is known for its extreme weather. Even if it's mild in the village or Dove Lake, the mountain tops are windy and cloudy. Regardless of the weather forecast, here's a list of gear you can pack and carry.  

Most hikers wear boots, a shirt, a hat, and lightweight, quick-drying shorts. They also wear a long-sleeved rain jacket, fluffy jacket, or old jumper to block out the cold and moisture. Gaiters can protect them from irritated grass seeds and snakebites if the route passes through the brush.

There are more hiking essentials you should pack:

Outdoor activities can be dangerous, so carry emergency medicine in an emergency. Especially outdoors in Australia, you may encounter attacks from venomous insects and wild animals.

Please put it in a waterproof bag and store it somewhere easy to get to in your pack (like the top pouch). A more complete kit for longer excursions into more isolated locations will be needed.

Jackery Portable Power Stations can make hiking more fun and powerful since electricity is vital, especially for overnight hiking. 

Bring a small power station like the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus or Explorer 600 Plus to charge your electronics (GPS devices, communication tools, and personal electronics) on your hiking trip. They are only the size of a book or a ball, so you can easily take them everywhere. 

TOP 7 Cradle Mountain Hikes 

Cradle Mountain is an outdoor paradise with many great trails, from the most challenging to beginners. If you get ready to lace up your hiking boots and explore the beauty of Cradle Mountain, try the Cradle Mountain hike, which is suitable for all fitness levels.

1. Enchanted Walk

Location: Cradle Mountain Rd, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Website: Enchanted Walk

Length: 1.1km

Difficulty: Easy

Hiking Time: 20 min

The Enchanted Walk is one of Tasmania's great short walks. Starting near the bridge over Pencil Pine Creek, the trail winds through rolling creeks and a beautiful mossy forest. You'll see wombats, Ben's wallabies and kangaroos along the way.

This lovely walk suits all ages and fitness levels and is filled with colourful fungi and woodland animals (watch out for wombats). The best time to visit Enchanted Walk is between November and May. One thing to note is that dogs are not allowed on this walk. 

2. Hansons Peak

Location: Dove Lake Rd, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306, Australia

Website: Hansons Peak

Length: 5km return

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Hiking Time: 2 Hours

The Hansons Peak hike is one of the underrated Cradle Mountain hikes. You may have to climb a steep trail to reach Hansons Peak, but you won't regret the effort and effort when you see the incredible views of Cradle Mountain below. Not only are the views from one of the highest peaks around Dove Lake amazing, but it's also uncrowded.

3. Dove Lake Circuit

Location: Dove Lake Cct, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306, Australia

Website: Dove Lake Circuit  

Length: 6km

Difficulty: Easy

Hiking Time: 2 Hours

The Dove Lake Circuit is one of Cradle Mountain's most scenic trails, perfect for those who want to see a variety of views but don't want to do a lot of hiking. It is a spectacular walk suitable for all fitness levels and ages, covering Cradle Mountain, temperate rainforest, quartzite beaches, and subalpine vegetation. 

A walk will take you to the beautiful glacial rocks, where you will enjoy the views of the honeymoon island while listening to the sounds of the water and birds chirping. After that, The Dove Lake Circuit then takes you through Dancehall Forest and under the high canopy to the iconic Boathouse. The Boathouse is located on the beach and was built in 1940 by the first ranger stationed in Cradle Mountain.

Most of this two-hour tour is on boardwalks and is suitable for most people as it is family-friendly. However, pets, firearms and bicycles are not allowed. The weather can change quickly at Cradle Mountain, so bringing warm, rainproof clothing is a good idea.

4. Marion's Lookout

Location: Cradle Mountain Rd, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306, Australia

Length: 10km return

Difficulty: Medium (some level of hiking experience is required)

Hiking Time: 2.5 hours

If you're looking to hike Cradle Mountain, there's no better place than Marion's Lookout. The walk offers lovely views of the surrounding peaks and sparkling Dove Lake, passing Lake Lilla and Wombat Pool. This hike is great anytime, but summer is the most popular, as it offers fantastic views of the blooming flowers. Marion's Lookout is more than 1200m above sea level; the path is slippery on rainy or snowy days, so be careful.

5. Cradle Valley Board Walk

Location: Cradle Mountain TAS 7306, Australia

Length: 12km return

Difficulty: Easy to medium

Hiking Time: 3 hours

The Cradle Valley Board Walk is a moderately complex trail that is approximately 12 km round trip and needs an average of 3 hours to complete. It's an almost leisurely ride where you can take your time and admire your surroundings without worrying about getting stuck in the mud.

This beautiful walk takes you through wetlands covered in golden meadows and lush button grass. You will travel across open country, stopping at waterfalls and crossing rivers. During your walk, you can enjoy the wild landscape of Cradle Valley.

6. Cradle Mountain Summit

Location: Cradle Mountain Summit Track, TAS 7306, Australia

Length: 13km return

Difficulty: Medium to Hard

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

The hike to the top of Cradle Mountain is relatively easy at first but gets more difficult the higher you go. But the higher you go, the better the views. With views of dozens of lakes and small peaks, this hike is a must for your trip and takes up a large portion of your camera roll. What better way to experience this famous mountain than climbing to the top of Cradle Mountain?

Once you reach the top, you'll see the most beautiful views, passing a spectacular field of trachyte scree and columnar towers. On one side of the mountain, you can see crystal clear Dove Lake and the lush landscape beyond. On the other side of the hill lies the heart of the Central Highlands, home of the famous Overland Track.

Refrain from attempting to hike to the top of Cradle Mountain in bad weather, as there may be a risk of ice and slipping. And there are only a few parts of this hike where you must climb over large rocks. The Cradle Mountain Summit hike is not for you if you fear heights.

7. Overland Track

Location: Tasmania, Australia

Length: 65km return

Difficulty: Hard

Hiking Time: 6 days

The Overland Track attracts visitors and avid hikers from across Tasmania. One of Australia's most popular walks, the Overland Track, winds through the beautiful Tasmanian wilderness. Walking through this unique desert landscape gives you a chance to reconnect with the nature around you, and it's one of the most extraordinary things you'll ever do. It is estimated that more than 8,000 hikers enjoy the route each year.

Jackery Portable Power Stations for Hiking

The stunning scenery of Cradle Mountain is an ideal destination for hikers. With a Jackery Portable Power Station, you can ensure your hike is comfortable and unforgettable. These power stations, designed for outdoor enthusiasts, combine mobility, dependability, and environmental friendliness to power your gadgets wherever your journey takes you.

Modern lithium-ion and LiFePO4 batteries are used in Jackery portable power stations to provide reliable power while on the go. Pair them with Jackery solar panels to capture solar energy for a sustainable and practical energy solution for your Cradle Mountain excursion.

We suggest the Jackery Explorer 600 Plus and Explorer 300 Plus for hiking excursions because they are both made to withstand the rigours of outdoor exploration.

Jackery Explorer 300 Plus

Lightweight and compact, the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus is ideal for short hikes or light power needs. Weighing only 8.3 lbs (3.75 kg), it fits effortlessly in your hiking gear and delivers a 300W output with a 288Wh capacity.

Equipped with dual PD ports and advanced safety features, the Explorer 300 Plus ensures efficient and secure charging of smaller devices, such as headlamps, power banks, and cameras. The intelligent app control feature lets you manage the battery remotely via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, adding a layer of convenience to your hiking adventure.

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus features a robust 10-year lifespan with a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery. It delivers stable voltage and a clean sine wave, ensuring the safety of all your electrical devices. The advanced ChargeShield technology and consistent power supply safeguard against possible equipment damage.

• Superior Quality: The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus features a robust 10-year lifespan with a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery.
• Efficient Charging: Utilise our cutting-edge technologies for expedited charging durations and prolonged battery longevity.
• Compact & Portable: Weighing just 8.3 lbs (3.75 kg), it easily fits into your gear bag, ensuring convenience without sacrificing performance.

Jackery Explorer 600 Plus

The Jackery Explorer 600 Plus is a versatile, reliable power station for extended hiking adventures. With an 800W output and a 632Wh capacity, it powers various devices, from camping lights to portable stoves, ensuring a stress-free hiking experience.

Despite its robust capacity, the Explorer 600 Plus is lightweight at 16.1 lbs (7.3 kg) and features a foldable handle for easy transport. Its dual PD fast-charging ports, delivering up to 100W, provide quick charging for essential devices like smartphones, cameras, and GPS units.

With a 4000-cycle LiFePO4 battery, this power station guarantees a decade of reliable performance. The ultra-fast UPS mode (under 20ms) ensures uninterrupted power for critical devices, while its quiet operation preserves the tranquillity of Cradle Mountain's pristine environment.

• Satisfy Your Fishing Power Needs: The Jackery Explorer 600 Plus can meet outdoor entertainment needs.
• Quick Charging: The Explorer 600 Plus provides enduring power, serves as an emergency backup and offers silent charging that does not disturb others.
• Easy to Carry: It's small and light (16.1 lbs/7.3 kg), making it convenient and easy to store.

With Jackery Portable Power Stations, you can confidently explore Cradle Mountain's majestic trails, knowing you have a reliable and eco-friendly power source.

Tips for Hiking in Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain offers many hiking trails through beautiful mountain lakes and majestic mountains. Now that you've chosen to hike Cradle Mountain, there are many things to consider.

• It is essential to familiariseyourself with the necessary information and preparation before hiking Cradle Mountain.
• A national park pass is required for all Cradle Mountain hikes. Passes can be bought at the visitor centre.
• Cradle Mountain hiking trails vary in difficulty, so choose a hike that matches your physical fitness level.
• Before starting your hike, please go to the Visitor Registration Office and register your name, contact information, and the date and time your hike starts. Don't forget to register your planned walking route at the Visitor Registration Office. Don't forget to check in at the Visitor Registration Office after your walk. The rangers will check this information to make sure no one gets lost.
• Arrive early to enjoy a quiet park or part of the ride.
• Cradle Mountain's weather changes quickly, and snow can fall at any time of the year. Bring warm clothing and rainproof clothing.
• It is essential to block UV rays by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Since the days are very long and no restaurants or shops are nearby, you must bring lunch and snacks to fill your stomach. You can bring a light lunch, such as a sandwich, a banana or a protein snack.
• Bring enough drinking water to stay hydrated.
• There are no litter bins in the park, so please collect any waste you make and take it to the disposal area.
• You can find more about walking to Cradle Mountain from Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife and check live weather updates via webcam.

Tips for Hiking in Cradle Mountain in Winter

Winter in Cradle Mountain can be cold, wet, windy and snowy. That's why it's important to dress warmly and pack your bags.

Waterproof Backpack: If you hike Cradle Mountain in winter, buy a waterproof backpack so your belongings don't get wet from the snow and rain.

Good Waterproof Hiking Boots: When it rains or snows, melting snow can create icy rivers along old sidewalks. Hiking up Cradle Mountain is a must, so be prepared to get stuck in a few inches of freezing water somewhere along the way. Good waterproof hiking boots will keep you dry, warm, and comfortable.

Raincoat: You'll need a waterproof jacket to handle Cradle Mountain's cold, wet or snowy weather. It's best to bring a raincoat to keep you dry indoors, even if you wear it for hours in humid conditions. If heavy rain is forecast, you'll need waterproof pants.

Warm Clothing: Wearing warm clothing under your down coat or jacket is a good idea to cope with Cradle Mountain's unpredictable weather. Warm clothes are essential because they are light, dry quickly and keep you warm.

Sunglasses: Cradle Mountain has a lot of snow in winter, and the light from the snow is firm. On a sunny day, you can't open your eyes without sunglasses. Goggles can also protect against snow blindness.

Hat: Wear a hat for warmth when hiking Cradle Mountain in winter. More than 30% of your body temperature escapes your head and neck.

Cradle Mountain Hikes FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about Cradle Mountain hikes:

1. Is Cradle Mountain rugged to hike?

The hike is easy to follow except for some problematic sections up the mountainside. However, any hike to Cradle Mountain will be enjoyable if you are an intermediate or advanced hiker with good physical strength, balance and rock-climb skills. However, adverse weather conditions such as rain, strong winds, snow or bad weather can make hiking Cradle Mountain more complex and risky. 

2. How many hikes are there in Cradle Mountain?

There are more than 20 hiking trails around Cradle Mountain, ranging from 20 minutes to 9 hours on foot. If you count all the other trails up to Cradle Mountain, there are many more hikes.

3. Do I need hiking boots to walk on Cradle Mountain?

Due to the heavy rainfall in this area, it is recommended that you wear a pair of sturdy hiking shoes when hiking Cradle Mountain. Many of Cradle Mountain's hiking trails are muddy in places, so you need enough grip to prevent sliding off the sloping boulders.

4. How to get to the Cradle Mountain?

There are currently two ways to get to Cradle Mountain.

Driving: Cradle Mountain National Park is 140 km from Launceston and 320 km from Hobart. Driving is the best way to get to Cradle Mountain, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Bus: You can also take a bus to Cradle Mountain. Buses from Launceston, Hobart and Devonport depart several times a week and drop you off at the bus terminal next to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre.

Final Thoughts

Cradle Mountain is known for its exquisite and diverse landscapes, from moss-covered forests to snowy peaks, deep river valleys, wild alpine wilderness, and glacial lakes. Whether you've come here to experience the famous Overland Track or stroll along Dove Lake, you'll be treated to stunning views. If there's one place that inspires travellers to escape the digital world and reconnect with nature, it's Cradle Mountain.

In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about hiking Cradle Mountain, including packing tips and some safety tips. So what are you waiting for? Put on your hiking boots and explore this jungle walker's paradise!