Gorgeous and breathtaking (literally and figuratively).
We took the shuttle bus from the visitor centre to dove lake (took about 20minutes). Recommend doing the dove lake circuit first as it takes about 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and mobility. Makes it easier to catch a bus back to the other walks as the bus gets full quickly, making it tricky to catch the bus towards dove lake.
There’s only one toilet facility at the dove lake stop, so try to go before starting the walk.
The walk will probably a moderate difficulty walk as there’s a decent amount of steps up and down. Terrain changes quite a bit too.
Make sure to layer up as the weather changes quickly. We experienced sun, clouds, wind and rain all within 2 hours. Recommend wearing proper walking, running or trekking shoes as the terrain gets rough sometimes.
Walk has rest stops every now and then (not many). Could bring a couple of snacks in case you get hungry.
Overall, I highly recommend trying this walk if you’re up for it. If not, take a short walk to the middle area for a compulsory photo with...
Read moreFor first-timers: Please note, you must park at the visitor centre to purchase a shuttle bus ticket and park pass. Cars are not allowed during shuttle bus operating hours which are 8/9am - 5/6pm depending on season. Please check online to confirm.
There are multiple walks in the area that the shuttle bus will take you to. So do plan your route for efficient travelling. Do check weather forecast and plan your trip well.
Easy walks: Rainforest Walk - 10min circuit Enchanted Walk - 20min circuit King Billy Walk - 40min circuit Knyvet Falls - 45min return Cradle Valley Boardwalk - 2-3 hours Weindorfers Forest Walk - 20min circuit
Moderate walks: Lake Lilla Track - 45min one way Crater Lake Circuit - 2-3hr circuit Dove Lake Circuit - 2-3hr circuit
Difficult walks: Dove Canyon Circuit - 2-3hr circuit Marions Lookout (via Crater Lake) - 3hrs return
Best places to see wombats*: Overland Track Ronny Creek Enchanted Walk
*Best time to spot wombats is early morning or late afternoon...
Read moreStunning walk which we loved- we managed to do it in 2hrs at a gentle pace. Definitely a must-do when visiting Cradle Mountain. The suggestion is 2-3 hours. Do note that it’s not as “easy” as described - there are several uneven/ slippery area, and several flights of stairs to contend with, and up-and down hills. We passed several people with children in strollers (!) ... no way they were going to complete the full circuit. I’d definitely describe this as “Medium- Easy” walk. Easy to reach the lake via the free shuttle busses; alternatively you could walk the 6km track from the visitors centre to the lake. There’s a toilet in the car park at the lake. There are several rest areas, and some of the area is shaded. Towards the end it got very busy. I’d recommend going early (before 10 or late afternoon) to avoid the crowds and the heat of the day - the sun is strong, although the wind keeps things cool. Make sure you take sunscreen and some water. We passed an echidna on the path at the start when it was...
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