Cradle mountain, tasmania

 Australia

Over four exhilarating days, explore Cradle Mountain National Park, one of Australia’s premiere trekking destinations.

Trip duration:
4 days

Challenge duration:
4 days

Challenge grade:
3/5

Departure months:
October to April

Accommodation:
Twin-share in comfortable cabins

Hiking Cradle Mountain National Park

Rocky mountain peaks, buttongrass moorlands, glacial lakes, waterfalls and dense rainforest are hallmarks of this natural haven.

On this adventure, you’ll spend four days trekking a variety of trails around the Cradle Mountain Village area. From easy exploration walks to day-long hikes up to lookouts, you’ll discover the Tasmanian wilderness up close on this unforgettable adventure.

Best of all, you’ll be joined by a team of like-minded individuals who are bound to become close friends over the course of this life-changing adventure.

Hikers resting on an lookout admiring the view of Cradle Mountain in the distance
Steps leading up in a lush rainforest setting. Tasmania

Why you'll love this adventure

  • Tackle some of the best trails in Tasmania.
  • See highlights of Cradle Mountain National Park including Lake Lilla, Dove Lake and Montezuma Falls.
  • Challenge yourself with ascents up to Hansons Peak.
  • Raise vital funds for a cause you’re passionate about while you tick off your bucket list.
Waterfall in lush rainforest area, Tasmania
Reflection of Cradle Mountain on Lake, Tasmania
Beach leading onto Lake Dove with Cradle Mountain in the distance. Tasmania

Trip notes

Day 1: Launceston to Cradle Mountain National Park

We recommend that you arrive the night before to be ready to meet your team and guides at 7:45am at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston this morning. Then we depart together for Cradle Mountain National Park! We’ll collect our passes and have lunch on the edge of the park before heading our for the Cradle Valley Boardwalk along the course of the Dove River.

Once we reach Walkheim Chalet, we enjoy a short walk through an ancient forest of myrtle beech and king billy pine. If time and energy permits, we’ll head back to the entrance of the park and take part in some short walks showcasing rainforest and waterfalls. Then, it’s off to our accommodation to get ourselves checked in and comfortable before pre-dinner antipasto.

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Discovery Holiday Park

Trekking distance: 9km

Meals: L D

Day 2: Hansons Peak

After breakfast and lunch making, we’ll depart for another scenic walk – this time taking in the parks eastern highlights. Starting from Dove Lake we will take the Lake Rodway track up and over Hansons Peak. The climb to the top of the peak is at times steep and uneven underfoot, with a chain provided on nearing the summit to assist walkers.

Once over the other side, we pick up our return route via the Twisted Lakes and Lake Hanson – remnants of glacial scouring from previous ice ages. These pools are very tranquil and are encompassed by endemic pencil pines and fagus. This is a challenging day with lots of variation in elevation, and at times can be quite rough and wet underfoot. 

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Discovery Holiday Park 

Trekking distance: 10km

Meals: B L D

Day 3: Marion's Lookout

Today’s walk takes in some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery in all of Australia. Starting at Dove Lake, we walk past Lake Lilla and Wombat Pools on our way to Marion's Lookout. The ascent to Marion’s is an exciting steep and rocky section of track where we use chains to assist our climb to the viewing area. In fine weather, the views from Marion's are magnificent and far reaching – with Cradle Mountain itself dominating the panorama.

From here we descend back towards Wombat Peak and turn onto the world-famous Overland Track towards the glacially formed Crater Lake.As we near the end of our days journey, we pass the magnificent Crater Falls, a series of 5-10 meter waterfall drops cascading their way through the beautiful rainforest for approximately 100m of our return to Ronny Creek.

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Discovery Holiday Park 

Trekking distance: 10km 

Meals: B L D

Day 4: Dove Lake Circuit and Return to Launceston

We start our last day by packing up the trailer heading out for our final walk - the Dove Lake Circuit, a lovely way to wind down from the adventure. This is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks and a must-do for anyone visiting the park. We visit the much-photographed boatshed on the shores of the lake, and encounter more local species of rainforest plant that only grow in the wettest of conditions. One section through the “Ballroom Forest” is particularly magical. Part way around, the Honeymoon Islands provide a focal point for visiting kayakers and also provide a nice place for a snack and a rest.

We finish our loop atop the impressive formation of Glacier Rock, which provides us with a final vista across the landscapes we have explored for the past four days. After lunch, we jump back on the bus and start our return journey back to Launceston. En-route we will stop by in the lovely little town of Sheffield – where we should have ample time for a break and a wander around the muralled streets.

Trekking distance: 6km

Meals: B L

Day 1: Launceston to Cradle Mountain National Park

We recommend that you arrive the night before to be ready to meet your team and guides at 7:45am at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston this morning. Then we depart together for Cradle Mountain National Park! We’ll collect our passes and have lunch on the edge of the park before heading our for the Cradle Valley Boardwalk along the course of the Dove River.

Once we reach Walkheim Chalet, we enjoy a short walk through an ancient forest of myrtle beech and king billy pine. If time and energy permits, we’ll head back to the entrance of the park and take part in some short walks showcasing rainforest and waterfalls. Then, it’s off to our accommodation to get ourselves checked in and comfortable before pre-dinner antipasto.

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Discovery Holiday Park

Trekking distance: 9km

Meals: L D

Day 2: Hansons Peak

After breakfast and lunch making, we’ll depart for another scenic walk – this time taking in the parks eastern highlights. Starting from Dove Lake we will take the Lake Rodway track up and over Hansons Peak. The climb to the top of the peak is at times steep and uneven underfoot, with a chain provided on nearing the summit to assist walkers.

Once over the other side, we pick up our return route via the Twisted Lakes and Lake Hanson – remnants of glacial scouring from previous ice ages. These pools are very tranquil and are encompassed by endemic pencil pines and fagus. This is a challenging day with lots of variation in elevation, and at times can be quite rough and wet underfoot. 

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Discovery Holiday Park 

Trekking distance: 10km

Meals: B L D

Day 3: Marion's Lookout

Today’s walk takes in some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery in all of Australia. Starting at Dove Lake, we walk past Lake Lilla and Wombat Pools on our way to Marion's Lookout. The ascent to Marion’s is an exciting steep and rocky section of track where we use chains to assist our climb to the viewing area. In fine weather, the views from Marion's are magnificent and far reaching – with Cradle Mountain itself dominating the panorama.

From here we descend back towards Wombat Peak and turn onto the world-famous Overland Track towards the glacially formed Crater Lake.As we near the end of our days journey, we pass the magnificent Crater Falls, a series of 5-10 meter waterfall drops cascading their way through the beautiful rainforest for approximately 100m of our return to Ronny Creek.

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Discovery Holiday Park 

Trekking distance: 10km 

Meals: B L D

Day 4: Dove Lake Circuit

We start our last day by packing up the trailer heading out for our final walk - the Dove Lake Circuit, a lovely way to wind down from the adventure. This is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks and a must-do for anyone visiting the park. We visit the much-photographed boatshed on the shores of the lake, and encounter more local species of rainforest plant that only grow in the wettest of conditions. One section through the “Ballroom Forest” is particularly magical. Part way around, the Honeymoon Islands provide a focal point for visiting kayakers and also provide a nice place for a snack and a rest.

We finish our loop atop the impressive formation of Glacier Rock, which provides us with a final vista across the landscapes we have explored for the past four days. After lunch, we jump back on the bus and start our return journey back to Launceston. En-route we will stop by in the lovely little town of Sheffield – where we should have ample time for a break and a wander around the muralled streets.

Trekking distance: 6km

Meals: B L

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

ABOUT THE ADVENTURE

How challenging is this adventure?

Your adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Cradle Mountain trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge. 

Who will I be travelling with? 

Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.

The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. 

Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

FITNESS AND TRAINING

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

ACCOMMODATION

What is the accommodation like?

On this trek, you’ll be staying in 3-star cabin style accommodation. We usually use two bedroom, one bathroom cabins at Cradle Mountain, but sometimes we use three bedroom cabins.

Each room is based on twin share. In the two bedroom cabins, there is a double bed in one room and a twin bunk in the second room along with a shared bathroom and lounge area. You will be sleeping on the bottom bunk only. You will be sharing your cabin with other team members.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Yes, you will be sharing your cabin with other guests. You may be in a two or three bedroom cabin. Each has separate bedrooms, a bathroom and lounge area.
With twin share arrangements, if you are travelling solo, you will be paired in a room with a teammate of the same gender.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you in a room together. You will be in a two or three bedroom cabin, sharing the cabin with other guests on the adventure.

WHAT TO EXPECT

What is the food like? 

Breakfast is continental. Lunch varies from day to day, but includes things like meat, salad, bread and wraps, roast chicken and salad or quiche. Dinner is a casual two-course meal of main and dessert prepared by your guides (unless it is specified that we will be dining out). The menu is constantly changing but can include a classic steak on the barbecue, chicken korma or salmon fillet. Dessert can include maple baked apples, pears in red wine, fruit salad or pavlova to name just a few.

The food served is healthy, hearty and home grown. It won’t be five-star chef-prepared dining, but the food is fresh and our guides make sure it is tasty and plentiful. 

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

We are able to accommodate guests’ specific dietary requirements and can always prepare a meal to meet individual needs.

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

You may not be able to use your phone at all times - but don't worry, it's all part of the experience! It is possible that during our trek you will have limited access at high points of the trail, and usually Telstra is best. Otherwise, enjoying switching off and getting back to nature.

Will I have access to electricity?

Yes, you will have access to power points at your accommodation.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What weather can I expect?

Weather in autumn and springtime tends to average around 20-22°C in Launceston, with highs around 13-15°C near Cradle Mountain. Temperatures can get as low as 1-10°C, so be sure to bring layers. Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

COSTS AND PAYMENTS

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Accommodation in comfortable cabins based on twin-share
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Water on trekking days
  • Local guide(s) 
  • Entrance fees as per itinerary

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include: 

  • Flights
  • Airport transfers 
  • Travel insurance
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. 

How much spending money do I need?

We recommend that you allow $45 per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs and gifts, drinks, and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel comfortably on a smaller budget, and you can always withdraw cash, when required, while travelling.

Is it customary to tip? 

Tipping is not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

ABOUT THE ADVENTURE

How challenging is this adventure?

Your adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Cradle Mountain trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge. 

Who will I be travelling with? 

Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.

The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. 

Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

FITNESS AND TRAINING

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

ACCOMMODATION

What is the accommodation like?

On this trek, you’ll be staying in 3-star cabin style accommodation. We usually use two bedroom, one bathroom cabins at Cradle Mountain, but sometimes we use three bedroom cabins.

Each room is based on twin share. In the two bedroom cabins, there is a double bed in one room and a twin bunk in the second room along with a shared bathroom and lounge area. You will be sleeping on the bottom bunk only. You will be sharing your cabin with other team members.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Yes, you will be sharing your cabin with other guests. You may be in a two or three bedroom cabin. Each has separate bedrooms, a bathroom and lounge area.
With twin share arrangements, if you are travelling solo, you will be paired in a room with a teammate of the same gender.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you in a room together. You will be in a two or three bedroom cabin, sharing the cabin with other guests on the adventure.

WHAT TO EXPECT

What is the food like? 

Breakfast is continental. Lunch varies from day to day, but includes things like meat, salad, bread and wraps, roast chicken and salad or quiche. Dinner is a casual two-course meal of main and dessert prepared by your guides (unless it is specified that we will be dining out). The menu is constantly changing but can include a classic steak on the barbecue, chicken korma or salmon fillet. Dessert can include maple baked apples, pears in red wine, fruit salad or pavlova to name just a few.

The food served is healthy, hearty and home grown. It won’t be five-star chef-prepared dining, but the food is fresh and our guides make sure it is tasty and plentiful. 

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

We are able to accommodate guests’ specific dietary requirements and can always prepare a meal to meet individual needs.

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

You may not be able to use your phone at all times - but don't worry, it's all part of the experience! It is possible that during our trek you will have limited access at high points of the trail, and usually Telstra is best. Otherwise, enjoying switching off and getting back to nature.

Will I have access to electricity?

Yes, you will have access to power points at your accommodation.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What weather can I expect?

Weather in autumn and springtime tends to average around 20-22°C in Launceston, with highs around 13-15°C near Cradle Mountain. Temperatures can get as low as 1-10°C, so be sure to bring layers. Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

COSTS AND PAYMENTS

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Accommodation in comfortable cabins based on twin-share
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Water on trekking days
  • Local guide(s) 
  • Entrance fees as per itinerary

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include: 

  • Flights
  • Airport transfers 
  • Travel insurance
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control.

How much spending money do I need?

We recommend that you allow $45 per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs and gifts, drinks, and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel comfortably on a smaller budget, and you can always withdraw cash, when required, while travelling.

Is it customary to tip? 

Tipping is not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate.

TRAVEL INSURANCE AND VISAS

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Icon-BLK-ResponsibleTravel

Responsible travel

Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.

Meaningful connections: Hear from Aranda Elders who will tell us about the history of the area.

Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral.

Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.

Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.

Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good

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