The Ultimate Guide to Cradle Mountain Tours: What to See & Do

Imagine standing on the shores of Dove Lake wrapped in the cool fresh air. The water remains almost still, so still it can cast the jagged peaks of Cradle Mountain in a virtually perfect mirror. A wombat would just walk by without giving you a second thought. Somewhere distant, a kookaburra laughs. It’s a representation of Tasmania’s raw, wild beauty, and it beckons you. 

Cradle Mountain, after all, will be your place for the famous Overland Track, chasing waterfalls, or simply breathing the freshest air ever. But in this vast place of wonders (and wombats), where should you go first? This is where we step in.

This guide is your all-access pass to the best Cradle Mountain tours, secret spots, and local tips. So, are you ready to trade the noise of the city for some alpine magic? Let’s go. 

Cradle Mountain Summary: Beyond a Beautiful Summit

Cradle Mountain is no run-of-the-mill mountain, but a 1,545-meter-high natural playground sculpted by ice over 20,000 years. Here is what makes it legendary:

• Wildlife Wonders: Watch wombats feed at Ronny Creek, hear growls of Tasmanian devils in conservation sanctuaries like Devils@Cradle, and observe echidnas snuffling over button grass moors.
• Seasonal drama: Snow-encrusted winters, autumn-gold “fagus” (the only Tasmanian deciduous beech), spring wildflowers, and summer hikes under the endless blue.
• Walks for everyone: From the 20-minute Enchanted Walk to the iconic 6-day Overland Track.

Where is Cradle Mountain, and How Can You Get There?

Located in the Central Highlands, Cradle Mountain National Park in Tasmania is both rugged and accessible:

• Drive Time:

• • Approximately 2.5 hours from Launceston (northern entry)
  • 4.5-hour drive north of Hobart (southern entry)

• Shuttle System: No private vehicles are permitted during shuttle time (summer 8am – 6pm; winter 9am – 5pm). Leave your car at the Visitor Centre and take the eco-shuttle – complimentary with your Parks Pass. 

Pro tip: Do you need a set of wheels to get around? For a stylish trip, check out our friends at Drive Car Hire Tasmania.

• Stock up and refuel in Deloraine or Sheffield, as there are not many supplies available in the park.

Types of Cradle Mountain Tours Available

1. Day Tours: Taste of the Wilderness

• Highlights Hunt: Dove Lake (complete 2-hour circuit walk), Ronny Creek wombats, and Marion’s Lookout (rock-scramble to achieve peak views that are epic).
• Devil Encounters: Delight in feeding tours around sanctuaries – rowdy and unmissable

2. Multi-Day Hikes: For the Soul Seekers

• Overland Track (6 days): Tasmania’s legendary 65 km track hike. Hike, sleep in huts, ascend Mt. Ossa (the highest in Tassie) and boat Lake St Clair.
• Luxe Options: Companies like Tasmanian Walking Co offer guided walks with gourmet meals and hot showers (from $4,495).

3. Speciality Tours: Beyond the Boots

• Wildlife Photography: Early/morning tours to spot wallaby joeys and also winter-time aurora sightseeing.
• Adventure Addicts: Horse riding, canyoning, or heli-flights over glacial valleys.
• Foodie Forays: Tasting wines and cheeses at Peppers Lodge after a spa treatment.

Comparison of Cradle Mountain Tour Types

Cradle Mountain Tour Tips: A Local’s Perspective

• Pack Like a Pro:

• Pack always: Waterproof coat, warm attire, hiking boots, and fuel stove (campfires are not allowed!).
• Wildlife Etiquette: Do not feed animals – view wombats from a 10m distance.

• Avoid the crowds:

• Drive before 8am to have shuttle-free parking at Dove Lake.
• Autumn (April – May) = fewer tourists + fagus leaf fireworks!

• Manage Accommodation:

• Rustic Charm: Waldheim Cabins (located inside park, $120 and up)
• Spa Luxury: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge (hot tubs & fires, from $350).

• Book Ahead:

• Overland Track bookings sell out many months in advance. 
• Restaurants like Altitude in Cradle Mountain Hotel get booked up – reserve dinners! 

Final Thought: Your Turn to Explore! 

Tasmania has much more to offer and the fun never stops. Whether you are a foodie, mature enthusiast, looking for inspiration or just looking to chill, Tasmania is the answer. Take a Local offers tours for a variety of adventures from the famous East Coast Crawl or kunanyi/Mt Wellington drive. Let Take a Local drive your travels while you sit back and enjoy the moment. 

Are you up for it? Take a Local audio tour, put on those hiking boots, and let Tasmania reimagine that idea of wild.