The best walks and hikes in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

The Face Track offers stunning views down the mountainside. This is a fairly steep and rocky singletrack trail with one short chain section - very doable, but you'll want to watch your feet. Below you, you'll get a great view of Lake Wilks.

The lake is surrounded on three sides by the steep rocky slopes of Cradle Mountain, and a cascade of small waterfalls make their way down into its basin. From the trail along the water's edge you also get a fantastic view below to Dove Lake.

Cradle Mountain is a steep, jagged dolerite peak in Tasmania’s alpine north, where you climb through rocky terrain, subalpine forest, and exposed ridgelines with breathtaking views over Dove Lake and the surrounding peaks. The summit route is a demanding full-day walk that includes sustained uphill sections and scrambling over large boulders, requiring good fitness and careful footing rather than technical climbing gear. Reaching the summit is suitable only for very experienced bushwalkers, and the weather in the area can change rapidly from clear to cold, wet, or even snowy conditions, so you should be prepared for full alpine conditions on short notice.

Crater Lake is a small, picturesque glacial lake nestled beneath Cradle Mountain, surrounded by steep slopes and alpine vegetation. A well-formed walking track leads to the lake from several nearby routes, offering elevated views over the water and surrounding peaks. Its sheltered setting and reflective surface make it a lovely spot to pause and take in the scenery for anyone exploring this beautiful area.

Overland Track at Ronny Creek marks the northern trailhead of Tasmania’s iconic long-distance walk, set within Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. Beginning across button grass plains and boardwalks, this section offers immediate views of Cradle Mountain and plenty of wildlife sightings, including wombats. It's a well-defined and easy start before the track climbs toward Marion’s Lookout and the alpine plateau.

Lake Lilla is a small, serene alpine lake surrounded by forest and open heathland. The lake reflects the nearby peaks on calm days, creating a peaceful, photogenic spot along the Dove Lake circuit. It’s a quiet place to pause and enjoy the natural beauty away from the busier main lookouts.

This lookout sits right at the edge of Wombat Pool, with a sturdy bench where you can rest and enjoy the view, where you’ll see the peaceful reflections of the surrounding alpine forest and nearby peaks in the calm water. It’s a quiet, scenic spot perfect for soaking in the park's tranquil atmosphere.

Marion’s Lookout sits high above Dove Lake, with sweeping panoramic views of Cradle Mountain, Crater Lake, and the surrounding alpine plateau. Situated on a rocky outcrop, it offers a dramatic perspective of the jagged peaks and glacially carved landscape below. On clear days, it’s one of the park’s most impressive vantage points, perfect for photos and taking in the scenery.