Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, located in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWWHA), boasts a vast array of stunning landscapes, from ancient rainforests and river gorges to snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes. The area was gazetted as Scenic Reserve way back in May 1922, an area of 63 943 hectares.
Throughout the year, visitors can witness the park’s seasonal wonders, including winter snowdrifts, vibrant autumn foliage due to Tasmania’s deciduous Fagus, spring’s budding wildlife, and the scent of wildflowers in the summer air.
The Visitors Centre can get busy at times and the shorter walks are popular. If you are stretching your legs on a longer walk you will soon leave the crowds behind though.
Renowned for its pristine wilderness, the park teems with wildlife, including Tasmanian devils, quolls, and the curious black currawong, among others. For those eager to explore, the park provides an extensive network of walking trails, including the iconic Overland Track, an 80km trek from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair, offering an immersive experience of Tasmania’s alpine beauty. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual visitor, Cradle Mountain promises a memorable natural experience.
The crowning glory of the park is undoubtedly Cradle Mountain. The mountain’s dolerite peaks are an iconic symbol of Tasmania, and the Dove Lake Circuit, a 6-kilometre trail at the base of the mountain, offers one of the most photographed views in the country. It’s an accessible trail that encircles the beautiful Dove Lake and offers stunning views of Cradle Mountain.
For more adventurous visitors, a hike to the summit of Cradle Mountain provides a challenging yet rewarding experience. The track is steep and can be strenuous, but the panoramic vistas from the top are simply breathtaking and well worth the effort. We walked it last year, 2022 and felt a warm glow of satisfaction when we reached the top!
Another notable feature of the park is Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest lake. The lake’s surrounding environment is a perfect spot for bushwalking, fishing, or simply enjoying the tranquil scenery. You can also take a ferry cruise to appreciate the serenity and natural beauty of the lake.
The park is a part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, highlighting its global significance due to the exceptional natural and cultural values. It’s a habitat for several endemic species, and you may encounter wombats, echidnas, Tasmanian devils, and a variety of bird species.
With an extensive network of short walks and multi-day hikes, the park caters to all levels of fitness and experience. Whether you prefer a gentle stroll or a challenging trek, the beauty of this Tasmanian wilderness will captivate you.
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park provides an insight into Tasmania’s wilderness. It’s a place where you can connect with nature and experience the pristine landscapes that make Tasmania so unique.
References:
- Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park – https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/cradle-mountain-lake-st-clair-national-park
- Dove Lake Circuit – https://www.discovertasmania.com.au/attraction/dovelakecircuit
- Cradle Mountain Summit Walk – https://www.parks.tas.gov.au/index.aspx?base=1369
- Lake St Clair – https://www.parks.tas.gov.au/index.aspx?base=3588
- Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area – https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/181
