Situated in the heart of Tasmania, the stunning Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park is a must-visit for anyone on a road trip from Hobart.
Cradle Mountain is a stunning destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the rugged beauty of Tasmania’s wilderness. You can almost guarantee wildlife sightings here, especially wombats, pademelons and wallabies, which are abundant. If you’re lucky, you may also spot a platypus, echidna, Tasmanian devil or spotted quoll.
Hobart to Cradle Mountain road trip is just over four hours journey. One of the best ways to visit this area is by campervan, as the hotels in the area are notoriously expense. A campervan hire from Hobart will allow you to spend more time, instead of more money, immersed in the region’s wilderness.
Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain is the star attraction of the national park and the starting point for many visitors. This imposing mountain, with its rugged peaks and unique rock formations, is the perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities. From hiking and mountaineering to photography and wildlife watching, there’s something for everyone.
One of the most popular hikes in the area is the Overland Track, a six-day trek that takes you through some of the most stunning wilderness in Tasmania. This challenging hike will reward you with breathtaking views of Cradle Mountain and its surroundings, as well as opportunities to spot local wildlife like wallabies and Tasmanian devils.
If you prefer a shorter walk, the Dove Lake circuit is a must-do. This gentle walk takes you around the base of Cradle Mountain, offering up-close views of the mountain and the serene Dove Lake. The walk is easy enough for most people to complete and can be done in a few hours, making it a great option for families or those with limited time.
Ronny Creek
Ronny Creek is a peaceful and picturesque spot in Cradle Mountain National Park. This beautiful creek is surrounded by lush flora and rolling mountains, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including the iconic wombat.
One of the most popular attractions at Ronny Creek is the boardwalk that runs along the creek. This boardwalk offers visitors the chance to explore the surrounding wilderness and spot local wildlife, including the famous Tasmanian wombats. These friendly marsupials are seen grazing along the creek on a daily basis, and are a must-see for any wildlife lover visiting Cradle Mountain National Park.
Dove Lake
Dove Lake is a serene mountain lake that’s nestled at the foot of Cradle Mountain. This tranquil lake is surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
One of the best ways to experience Dove Lake is on a leisurely kayak tour. These 4 hour tours take you out onto the calm waters of the lake, offering up-close views of Cradle Mountain and its surroundings. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot local wildlife, such as eagles and other bird species, and learn about the area’s rich history and geology.
If you prefer to stay on land, the Dove Lake circuit walk is a must-do. This gentle walk takes you around the base of Cradle Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the mountain and the lake. The walk is easy enough for most people to complete and can be done in a few hours, making it a great option for families or those with limited time.
Speeler Track
If you’re looking for a challenging hike in Cradle Mountain National Park, the Speeler Track is a must-do. This semi-strenuous hike takes you through the heart of the park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and the opportunity to spot local wildlife.
The Speeler Track is not your usual walking track, it takes you through some of the most rugged and remote terrain in the park. The hike is steep and challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. From the summit, you’ll have panoramic views of Cradle Mountain and its surroundings, as well as the chance to spot local wildlife like wallabies, wombats and Tasmanian devils.
In addition to the stunning views, the Speeler Track is also a great opportunity to learn about the park’s history and geology. Along the way, you’ll cross streams and waterfalls, and you may even spot some of the rare and unique plant species that grow in the area.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking for a challenging outdoor experience, the Speeler Track is a must-do in Cradle Mountain National Park. So pack your gear and hit the trails – you won’t be disappointed!
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Cradle Mountain National Park, the Big4 Cradle Mountain Campground is a great choice. This campground is located just minutes from the park’s main attractions, and offers a range of accommodation options to suit your needs.
The Big4 Cradle Mountain Campground has a range of sites available, from powered campervan sites to spacious cabins. The campground is also equipped with modern amenities, including hot showers, toilets, and a camp kitchen. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, the Big4 Cradle Mountain Campground is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the park.
In addition to its convenient location and comfortable accommodations, the Big4 Cradle Mountain Campground is also surrounded by stunning wilderness. The campground is located near the base of Cradle Mountain, and is surrounded by lush forests and pristine lakes. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an opportunity to spot local wildlife, the Big4 Cradle Mountain Campground is the perfect base for exploring Cradle Mountain National Park.
Where to Eat
When it comes to dining options in Cradle Mountain National Park, there are a variety of options to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a sit-down meal, or simply a place to grab a coffee or snack, you’ll find plenty of options in the park.
One of the most popular dining options in Cradle Mountain National Park is the Lodge Restaurant. This restaurant is located in the Cradle Mountain Lodge, and offers a range of delicious meal options, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant also features beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness, making it the perfect spot to relax and recharge after a day of exploring the park.
If you’re looking for a quick bite or a place to grab a coffee, the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre offers a variety of food and drink options, including light snacks, sandwiches, and hot and cold beverages. There is also a cafe located at the entrance to the park, which offers a range of dining options, including coffee, cakes, and light meals.
For those who prefer to self-cater, there are also several camp kitchens and BBQ facilities located throughout the park, including at the Big4 Cradle Mountain Campground. These camp kitchens are equipped with everything you need to prepare your own meals, including stoves, refrigerators, and utensils.
