Itineraries Home » Tasmania » Dove Lake Circuit: The Ultimate Cradle Mountain Experience in One Spectacular Walk
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Cradle Mountain is renowned for its dramatic scenery, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in this Tasmanian wilderness than by walking the Dove Lake Circuit. This stunning 6-kilometre loop takes you on an unforgettable journey around the crystal-clear waters of Dove Lake, offering some of the most iconic views of Cradle Mountain itself. But this walk is more than just breathtaking vistas — it’s a full immersion into the diverse landscapes that make this region so special.
As you wander along the well-maintained path, you’ll pass through ancient rainforests, glide past towering rock formations shaped by glaciers, and stroll along peaceful boardwalks that wind through delicate alpine vegetation. Each step reveals something new, from the tranquil shores of the lake to the moss-covered trees of the enchanting Ballroom Forest. The Dove Lake Circuit is suitable for all fitness levels, making it the perfect choice for anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty of Cradle Mountain up close. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of stunning scenery or a peaceful escape into nature, this walk is a must-do for anyone visiting Cradle Mountain.
Prepare for an adventure that will leave you inspired, as the ever-changing landscapes of the Dove Lake Circuit offer a new perspective around every corner. Whether you’re a photographer chasing the perfect shot or simply looking to unwind in the serenity of Tasmania’s wilderness, the Dove Lake Circuit is an experience you’ll never forget.
Getting there
The Dove Lake Circuit Walk adventure begins at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, located in the northern part of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Getting to Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre is a scenic drive no matter where you're coming from. If you’re travelling from Devonport, the 80km journey takes just over 1 hour and 15 minutes. Launceston is 150 kilometres away to the east, and the drive takes around two hours. For those driving from Hobart, the trip takes around 4 hours, covering slightly over 300 kilometres as you head north before turning west towards the park.
For visitors coming from Tasmania's west coast, Queenstown is approximately 1.5 hours away (slightly over 100 kilometres), while Strahan offers a similarly scenic 140-kilometre drive, taking slightly less than 2 hours to reach Cradle Mountain.
For visitors coming from Tasmania's west coast, Queenstown is approximately 1.5 hours away (slightly over 100 kilometres), while Strahan offers a similarly scenic 140-kilometre drive, taking slightly less than 2 hours to reach Cradle Mountain.
Shuttle Bus Service and Park Access
Once you arrive at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, you’ll need to catch the shuttle bus to the Dove Lake carpark, as private vehicles are not allowed beyond the visitor centre when the shuttle bus service is operating. The shuttle bus provides a convenient and eco-friendly way to access key points within the park and takes around 30 minutes to reach Dove Lake from Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. The shuttle operates daily, with buses running every 10 to 15 minutes during peak season (October to April). In the quieter months, the service still runs frequently, though on a slightly reduced schedule. Make sure to check the current timetable at the Visitor Centre upon arrival.
Park Entry Fees
In addition to the shuttle bus fare, you’ll need a valid Tasmania Parks Pass to enter Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. These can be purchased either at the Visitor Centre or online before your trip. The Parks Pass gives you access to all of Tasmania’s national parks, making it a worthwhile investment if you plan to explore more of Tasmania’s stunning natural beauty.
Provided below is an AllTrails map for the circuit walk along with some key facts.
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Begin your adventure at the Dove Lake carpark, where you’ll find basic facilities like toilets. Please note that there are no restaurants or café at Dove Lake so make sure to pack enough food and water for your hike. Before setting off, don’t forget to sign the visitor log — an important step to ensure your safety in this untamed landscape. As you stand at the trailhead, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking view: Dove Lake’s dark, glassy waters reflect the jagged peaks of Cradle Mountain like a perfect mirror. It’s a scene so tranquil, yet powerful, you’ll want to capture it before the journey begins. With the lake at your side and the iconic mountain looming ahead, you’re about to embark on a walk through one of Tasmania’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
The first major highlight of the walk is Glacier Rock, a massive quartzite formation on the eastern shore of the lake. As you climb this outcrop, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Dove Lake with Cradle Mountain standing tall in the background. Take a close look at the rock surface to spot the striations, or scratches, left by ancient glaciers as they carved out the lake’s basin. This powerful geological story makes Glacier Rock not only a scenic viewpoint but also a fascinating piece of natural history.
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After descending from Glacier Rock, the trail flattens out as you make your way along the shoreline of Dove Lake. Here, scrubby buttongrass gives way to sandy beaches and calm waters that hug the track. In this section, take in the incredible contrast between the jagged peaks of Cradle Mountain and the stillness of the lake.
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A series of boardwalks then help you traverse the wetlands, protecting the delicate ecosystems below and keeping your feet dry in wetter conditions.
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When Visiting Cradle Mountain, Don’t Miss Lake St Clair!
Already in awe of Cradle Mountain? Extend your adventure by visiting Lake St Clair, the southern end of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Famous for its tranquil waters and serene walking trails like the Watersmeet Trail and Platypus Bay Walk, Lake St Clair offers a quieter but equally captivating wilderness experience. It’s the perfect way to round off your Tasmanian adventure with more iconic hikes and peaceful moments in nature. Learn more about what Lake St Clair has to offer via our itinerary below!
Already in awe of Cradle Mountain? Extend your adventure by visiting Lake St Clair, the southern end of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Famous for its tranquil waters and serene walking trails like the Watersmeet Trail and Platypus Bay Walk, Lake St Clair offers a quieter but equally captivating wilderness experience. It’s the perfect way to round off your Tasmanian adventure with more iconic hikes and peaceful moments in nature. Learn more about what Lake St Clair has to offer via our itinerary below!
Lake St Clair Adventures: Exploring the Watersmeet Trail, Platypus Bay Walk, and More
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Coming up next is one of the most enchanting parts of the walk, the Ballroom Forest, which is a cool temperate rainforest filled with ancient Myrtle-Beech trees. This rare patch of forest survived bushfires and thrives with a mystical, moss-covered floor and canopy. The dense moss covering everything from the ground to the trees creates a surreal, cathedral-like atmosphere. The cool air, soft light, and vibrant green hues make this a perfect place to pause, breathe, and take in the serene beauty of the forest. Along the trail, you’ll hear the sounds of cascading water as small streams and waterfalls flow into the lake. These natural features add a sense of tranquillity to the walk and provide beautiful photo opportunities.
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Our next stop is the historic Boatshed, perched on the northwest shore of Dove Lake. Built in 1940 by Cradle Mountain’s first Ranger, Lionell Connell, the Boatshed was used to store the Huon Pine boats that once ferried visitors around the lake in the early 20th century. The Boatshed, with its rustic King Billy Pine construction, is a favourite spot for photos, offering a charming contrast to the wild, untamed beauty of the surrounding landscape. It’s a reminder of Cradle Mountain’s long history as a destination for explorers and nature lovers.
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The final leg of the Dove Lake Circuit brings you back to the carpark, where your journey began. As you near the end, you’ll have one last chance to soak in the views of Cradle Mountain reflected in the lake. This is a perfect moment to reflect on the diversity of landscapes you’ve encountered along the way — from scrubby grasslands and sandy beaches to rainforests and rock formations.
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From the carpark, hop on the shuttle bus back to the Visitor Centre, where even more Cradle Mountain adventures await you. Whether you're ready to relax or explore further, the Visitor Centre is the perfect starting point for your next discovery in this stunning wilderness.
Additional Things To Do:
For those looking to explore more of Cradle Mountain beyond the Dove Lake Circuit, there are plenty of fantastic walks to suit all levels of fitness and interest. Here are some of our top recommendations:
From short, scenic walks to challenging multi-day treks, Cradle Mountain offers an array of experiences that showcase Tasmania’s breathtaking wilderness.
For those looking to explore more of Cradle Mountain beyond the Dove Lake Circuit, there are plenty of fantastic walks to suit all levels of fitness and interest. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- The Enchanted Stroll (20 mins, easy): This relaxing walk takes you along the banks of the Pencil Pine River, offering a chance to see a diverse range of vegetation. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including wombats and, if you're lucky, the elusive platypus.
- King Billy Track (40 mins, easy): Wander through ancient temperate rainforest, discovering towering King Billy pines, some over 1,500 years old. It's a peaceful walk through Cradle Mountain's natural history.
- The Waterfalls Walk (30-40 mins, easy): A quick yet rewarding walk where you can enjoy the beauty of cascading Pencil Pine and Knyvet Falls. Perfect after some rain, the waterfalls are especially spectacular.
- Crater Lake (3 hours, medium): Venture through a magical forest to discover the hidden gem of Crater Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. This is a stunning hike for those seeking a bit more adventure.
- Marions Lookout (3 hours, medium-hard): For those with a moderate level of fitness, this walk offers sweeping views of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake. Be prepared for some steep sections, but the panorama at the top is well worth the effort.
- Cradle Mountain Summit (7 hours, hard): For seasoned hikers, the summit of Cradle Mountain offers the ultimate challenge. The climb is steep and requires some rock scrambling, but the reward is breathtaking views across the surrounding landscape.
- Overland Track (6 days, hard): The most famous of all is the Overland Track, a 65-kilometre one-way trek that begins at Cradle Mountain and concludes at Lake St Clair. This iconic multi-day hike is considered one of Australia's premier wilderness experiences, offering unparalleled encounters with the diverse flora and fauna, dramatic mountain landscapes, and the tranquillity of remote alpine regions. For those who are prepared and adventurous, the Overland Track is a journey that captures the essence of Tasmania's wild and untamed beauty!
From short, scenic walks to challenging multi-day treks, Cradle Mountain offers an array of experiences that showcase Tasmania’s breathtaking wilderness.
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