Tasmania Road Trip Stage 5: Cradle Mountain National Park
Embarking on a road trip through Tasmania is an adventure that promises breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences. The highlight of our journey in this fifth leg takes us into the heart of the island, where nature’s beauty reigns supreme at the Cradle Mountain National Park. What makes this destination so special? It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing an incredible diversity of ecosystems, including lush rainforests, alpine lakes, towering mountains, and serene valleys.
For nature enthusiasts and hiking aficionados, this is a paradise. With trails ranging from short, leisurely walks to the renowned Overland Track, Cradle Mountain offers something for everyone. Let’s dive deeper into what this magnificent park has to offer, along with must-see attractions and activities.
Planning Your Route to Cradle Mountain
As we set off on our journey, here are essential details to keep in mind:
- Starting Point: Burnie
- Final Destination: Russell Falls
- Total Distance: 407 km
Our day promised to be challenging, and we left early for the Central Highlands of Tasmania. As we ventured inland, light rain began to fall. The roads were slick, and we noticed a couple of recent accidents, which made us cautious. Generally, Tasmania’s roads are well-maintained, but it’s prudent to adjust your driving in wet conditions.
Arriving at Cradle Mountain Visitor Center
Upon reaching the Cradle Mountain Visitor Center, the rain had intensified. Doubts crept in as we pondered whether we should proceed with our plan to hike the Dove Lake circuit, a 6 km trail. Would the rain ruin the experience? After waiting a bit, we saw a steady stream of fellow adventurers, and we thought, “What’s a little water?” So, we decided to go for it—and it turned out to be a fantastic choice!
Accessing Cradle Mountain National Park
With your park entry fee paid (or if you possess a seasonal pass), you can utilize the park's bus service, which connects key locations throughout the area. Alternatively, you can drive your own vehicle, but do note that there is a limit of 50 cars allowed past the Ranger Station at a time. On busy days, you may find yourself waiting for access.
Cradle Mountain National Park is a haven for those eager to stretch their legs and engage in some physical activity. It attracts countless visitors who come to explore a variety of popular walking tracks. Here’s a quick overview of the options:
- Short Walks: Family-friendly paths around the visitor center.
- Medium Trails: Several kilometers of trails for a brief introduction to the park.
- Overland Track: A challenging six-day trek covering 65 km, starting from the park.
For further details, you can visit Parks Tasmania.
Entrance Fees and Information
Cradle Mountain National Park Entry
- Entry fee: $16.50 per person (includes bus service).
- Seasonal pass available: $60 per vehicle (up to 8 people) for 8 weeks.
- Note: This park is excluded from the $24 daily pass.
- For additional information, visit Parks Tasmania passes.
Hiking the Dove Lake Circuit
We disembarked from the bus at the last stop for the Dove Lake circuit walk, and the rain was relentless. However, we decided to gear up and start our hike. After about ten minutes, we reached the first viewpoint (Glacier Rock), still shrouded in rain. Yet, our spirits lifted as the clouds began to part, revealing shy glimpses of sunlight. Miraculously, the rain ceased, and we completed the entire loop with joy!
The 6 km circuit took us about 1 hour and 45 minutes, plus an additional 15 minutes for the bus ride from the parking lot, which runs every 15 minutes.
For more details, check out Cradle Mountain National Park.
Exploring Beyond Cradle Mountain
In the afternoon, we continued our journey, passing through Queenstown, a town with a rich mining history and a few roadside motels. As we departed Queenstown, we navigated a winding road that may not be for the faint-hearted. At the top lies Horsetail Falls. If you’re feeling adventurous, a path leads to a viewpoint along the rocky slope.
The route then winds through Tasmania’s breathtaking interior, filled with forests, lakes, fields, and farms. By this stage of the trip, you'd have noticed that Tasmania lacks highways; the main road resembles a charming country lane connecting two remote villages. However, the stunning scenery makes every moment worthwhile.
Stops Along the Way
We paused at Nelson Falls for a short, 20-minute round-trip hike. After soaking in the beauty, we pressed on to reach our campsite before sundown. The sun dipped behind the lakes, marking the end of a fulfilling day. We chose to stay in the small town of Ellendale, near Russell Falls. Just 7 km earlier, there’s a camping site with bathroom facilities, primarily for self-contained vehicles. However, we spotted several campers like ours without bathrooms that were allowed to stay.
* Main photo credit: Shutterstock
As you plan your own adventure through Tasmania, consider watching this captivating video that showcases the beauty of Cradle Mountain and the surrounding areas, providing inspiration and guidance for your trip.
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