We awoke to beautiful blue skies after the overnight rainfall, with two nights stay in Cradle Mountain you couldn’t have asked for any better weather. Cradle Mountain is situated about two hour drive from Launceston in Tasmania. I hadn't visited Cradle Mountain National Park before so was especially looking forward to seeing the world famous Cradle Mountain in all its splendour.
We drove to the visitor centre to organise and catch the shuttle bus into the National Park. We arrived at Cradle Mountain Dove Lake car park at mid-morning and are instantly greeted by the picturesque wonder of the mountain range from Hanson’s Peak, Smithies Peak, Cradle Mountain summit and around to Crater Peak. Simply breathtaking!
We planned to hike the Dove Lake circuit, a 6 km loop. We followed the traditional clockwise direction of the trail is a well-established path wooden boardwalk around the lake after a short distance arrived at Glacier Rock which offered running views stunning views cross the lake and Cradle Mountain summit to your left and Hanson’s Peak behind you.
The next part of the track was along quite shaded section of boardwalk and you could still see quite a bit of snow despite it being almost mid Spring and especially visible on the Cradle Mountain Peaks.
We had a short break at the far end of the lake and a family snowball fight! My wife and daughter were definitely the winners! The second half of the Dove Lake Circuit offered beautiful views of 2 waterfalls and a moderate climb followed by a descent down to the famous boatshed which has been featured in many a postcard!
The thoroughly enjoyable, easy grade 6 km walk on a good quality walking path and is very reasonable for a person with a moderate level of fitness.
We couldn't believe the picture perfect day we experienced with clear blue skies and snow- capped peaks. The Dove Lake circuit walk is featured in one of the one of Tasmania's 60 must do short walks and I can see why!
