In 1827 Joseph Fossey saw a dramatic mountain peak at the northern end of what is now the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the World Heritage Area. He immediately named the peak Cradle Mountain, and as soon as you see it you will know why he chose the name.
The Mountain is one of the most popular features in the Park and is surrounded by stands of native deciduous beech (wonderfully colourful in autumn - April and May), rainforest, alpine heathlands and buttongrass. Icy streams cascade down the mountainsides, and ancient pines are reflected in the still glacial lakes.
The track to the top of the mountain (1,545 metres/5,068 feet above sea level) is an eight-hour return walk, but there are many other shorter, easier walks lower down, such as the walk around Dove Lake. For your convenience, and to help protect Cradle's delicate natural environment, an optional shuttle service operates from the information centre to Dove Lake and other popular destinations within the park.
Featured Cradle Mountain Activities
TOUR NAME
LOCATION
RATES (AUD) from
3 Day Cradle Mountain Walking Tour(EX1507) (Adventures) The Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park is home to Tasmania’s iconic Cradle Mountain. One of the first National Parks in Australia, this wilderness area is a must see for visitors to the sta...
6 Day Tassie Icons Tour(EX2548) (Bushwalking, Nature & Wildlife) This 6 Day Tour is the ultimate Tasmanian Experience! Covering all the major Tourist attractions in Tasmania you will be completely immersed in the region's rich history and culture. Bask in the sun o...
10 Day Tasmania Tour(EX2637) (Touring) See parts of Tasmania that larger groups don't see on this small group tour. Start in Hobart and make your way around Tasmania visiting historic Port Arthur, Freycinet National Park and the spectacula...
PLEASE NOTE: The Tasmania travel destinations outlined above are only a small selection from the tens of thousands of Australian travel information pages available on Australian Explorer. A comprehensive list of destinations for Tasmania Holidays can be found on the main Tasmania Holidays location guide.