Nestled in the heart of Tasmania, Cradle Mountain is an undeniable haven for nature lovers. It forms part of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its awe-inspiring hiking trails and abundant wildlife encounters, Cradle Mountain is truly a paradise for adventure seekers.
Find accommodation Cradle Mountain and book your stay for an incredible adventure. Whether you’re an avid hiker, wildlife enthusiast or nature photographer, Cradle Mountain promises an unforgettable experience regardless of your interests or passions.
Its untouched wilderness and limitless beauty make it an essential destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solace in nature’s embrace. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots and embark on a journey to Cradle Mountain, where adventure and serenity await.
Unforgettable Hiking Trails at Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain in Tasmania offers some unforgettable hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most popular trails is the Dove Lake Circuit, which takes you around the picturesque Dove Lake and offers stunning views of Cradle Mountain. This relatively easy trail is approximately 6 kilometers long and can be completed in about 2-3 hours.
For a more challenging hike, you can tackle the Overland Track, a 65-kilometer trail that takes you through diverse landscapes, including alpine meadows, ancient rainforests and glacial valleys. This multi-day hike usually takes around 6-8 days to complete and requires proper planning and preparation.
Another notable trail is the Cradle Mountain Summit Track, a steep and strenuous climb to the summit of Cradle Mountain. This challenging hike rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. However, if you’re looking for a shorter hike, the Enchanted Walk is a great option. This 20-minute loop trail takes you through a magical forest filled with moss-covered trees and babbling streams.
No matter which trail you choose, make sure to come prepared with proper hiking gear, including sturdy footwear, warm clothing and sufficient water and snacks. It’s also important to check weather conditions and trail updates before embarking on your hike.
Nature Photography Opportunities in Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain also offers a plethora of nature photography opportunities. The stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique flora make it a photographer’s paradise. Here are some of the top photography spots in Cradle Mountain:
- Enchanted Walk: This short rainforest walk provides opportunities to capture the lush greenery, moss-covered trees and cascading waterfalls. Look out for unique plant species and wildlife along the way.
- Lake St Clair: Located near Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair is the deepest lake in Australia. Its tranquil waters, surrounded by ancient rainforests, provide excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
- Pencil Pine Falls: This picturesque waterfall is easily accessible and offers a great subject for long-exposure shots. Experiment with different shutter speeds to capture the flowing water in a creative way.
Respect the environment and wildlife while photographing in Cradle Mountain. Be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines to preserve the area’s natural beauty. Don’t forget to experiment with different perspectives and compositions. Get up close to capture the intricate details of a flower or zoom out to showcase the vastness of the wilderness. Play with light and shadows to add depth and drama to your photos. And most importantly, take your time to truly appreciate the beauty of Cradle Mountain through your lens.
Wildlife Encounters in Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain boasts a rich array of wildlife, making it a perfect place for anyone who wishes to spend some time surrounded by wild animals. The Tasmanian devil, known for its black fur and ferocious temperament, is a highlight for many visitors to Cradle Mountain. These nocturnal creatures can often be seen scavenging for food at night, and their distinctive growls and snarls can be heard echoing through the forest.
Wombats are another common sight in Cradle Mountain, with their stocky bodies and distinctive waddling gait. These herbivorous marsupials can often be seen grazing on grass and shrubs or burrowing into the ground to escape the heat of the day. Wallabies and pademelons, which are smaller relatives of kangaroos, are also abundant in the area and can often be seen hopping through the undergrowth.
For those with a keen eye, the lakes and rivers of Cradle Mountain offer the chance to spot one of Australia’s most unique animals – the platypus. These semi-aquatic creatures are notoriously difficult to spot, as they spend much of their time underwater and are very shy. However, patient observers may be rewarded with a glimpse of these fascinating creatures as they swim and hunt for food.
Birdwatchers will also find plenty to keep them occupied in Cradle Mountain, with over 100 species of birds recorded in the area. The green rosella is also a common sight in the forest with its bright green and yellow plumage, while the wedge-tailed eagle – one of Australia’s largest birds of prey – can often be seen soaring high above the mountains. Other notable species include the flame robin, the yellow-tailed black cockatoo and the eastern spinebill.
