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Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park wilderness guide
National Park · TAS

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, located in Tasmania, is a stunning wilderness area known for its dramatic landscapes featuring rugged mountains, ancient forests, and glacial lakes.

National Park4120004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

412000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, located in Tasmania, is a stunning wilderness area known for its dramatic landscapes featuring rugged mountains, ancient forests, and glacial lakes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is located in the Central Highlands of Tasmania, Australia, and is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The park spans approximately 412,000 acres and is renowned for its diverse ecosystems that include mountain landscapes, alpine heathlands, and temperate rainforests. Cradle Mountain, with its jagged peaks, is one of the most photographed sights in Tasmania. Lake St Clair, Australia's deepest freshwater lake, is located at the southern end of the park. The park is home to several unique species of flora and fauna, including the Tasmanian devil, spotted-tail quoll, and the endangered Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle. Historically, it was inhabited by the Aboriginal peoples before becoming a protected area in the early 20th century. Visitors to the park can enjoy a range of recreational activities such as hiking on the Overland Track, which is considered one of the world's great walks, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and rock climbing.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Cradle Mountain: Tasmania's Rugged Masterpiece★ 9.2⌖ 1 miHiking
Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain: Tasmania's Rugged Masterpiece

Explore the rugged beauty of Cradle Mountain in Tasmania. Known for its jagged peaks and reflective lakes, this area offers hiking trails ranging from easy lake loops to challenging summit ascents. A must-visit for adventure seekers, it's accessible year-round but weather can be unpredictable.

Hiking the Overland Track in Tasmania's Wilderness★ 9.2⌖ 3 miHiking
Overland Track

Hiking the Overland Track in Tasmania's Wilderness

Explore the 65 km Overland Track in Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. A challenging multi-day hike through alpine peaks, rainforests, and moorlands. Encounter unique wildlife, stunning glacial lakes, and rugged landscapes for a rewarding wilderness adventure.

Overland Track: Tasmania's Premier Wilderness Trek★ 9.3⌖ 14 miHiking
Overland Track

Overland Track: Tasmania's Premier Wilderness Trek

The Overland Track in Tasmania is a 65 km multi-day hike through diverse terrain, including alpine meadows and temperate rainforests. Moderate difficulty with well-marked trails, huts, and stunning wildlife sightings. Best hiked spring to fall with necessary permits and preparations.

Captivating Cascades at Step Falls★ 7.2⌖ 23 miHiking
Step Falls

Captivating Cascades at Step Falls

Explore Step Falls near Nietta, Tasmania, a stunning site with cascading waterfalls and unique rock formations. Ideal for hiking and photography. Best visited in spring and fall when the lush surroundings enhance the tranquility.

Cascade Wonder of Nelson Falls★ 8.5⌖ 31 miHiking
Nelson Falls

Cascade Wonder of Nelson Falls

Experience the beauty of Nelson Falls in Tasmania with a short, family-friendly hike that's easy for all ages. The 20-minute round trip is perfect for birdwatching and photography. Visit year-round to enjoy this accessible waterfall, but expect more visitors during summer.

The Untamed Beauty of Franklin River★ 8.7⌖ 46 miWhite Water Rafting
Franklin River

The Untamed Beauty of Franklin River

Explore Franklin River's daunting rapids and serene pools in Southwest Tasmania's wilderness. It's a challenging spot for white water rafting and hiking with rare wildlife. Best visited in late spring to early autumn.

White Water RaftingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Overland Track✦ Tasmanian Devil sightings✦ Dove Lake Circuit✦ Marions Lookout for panoramic views
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

National Park entry fees apply, with passes available online or at park entry points.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Cradle Mountain Campground

Located near the visitor center, offering powered sites and amenities for a comfortable stay.

Narcissus Hut

A remote hut accessible only by hiking, offering basic facilities for Overland Track hikers.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Cradle Mountain Village
⌖ 6.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cradle Mountain Village, Tasmania

A gateway village offering unmatched access to Tasmania’s rugged alpine wilderness with a focus on hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic outdoor exploration.

Late Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
Tullah
⌖ 18.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tullah, Tasmania

A peaceful lakeside gateway with rich mining history, offering rugged wilderness access and water-based outdoor adventures in Tasmania’s west coast region.

Summer and AutumnExplore Town
Nietta
⌖ 22.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nietta, Tasmania

A quiet rural hub providing gateway access to the lush wilderness and waterways of Tasmania’s northwest, ideal for nature lovers seeking solitude and classic Tasmanian outdoor recreation.

Spring to AutumnExplore Town
Rosebery
⌖ 23.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rosebery, Tasmania

A rugged mining town offering access to Tasmania’s wild west coast landscapes, known for dense forests, river valleys, and a quiet, authentic outdoor experience.

Summer and Early AutumnExplore Town
Mole Creek
⌖ 24.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mole Creek, Tasmania

A gateway to stunning limestone caves and wild forest landscapes that appeal to hikers, cavers, and nature lovers.

Spring to early AutumnExplore Town
Waratah
⌖ 27.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Waratah, Tasmania

A historic mining town offering rugged wilderness access with peaceful forest surroundings and remote, uncrowded outdoor experiences.

Spring to AutumnExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.