Is the Dove Lake Circuit Tasmania’s Best Short Walk?
All our tours visit Cradle Mountain National Park. Why? Because visiting this UNESCO World Heritage-listed area will make your heart sing. One of the main highlights of “Cradle” is the loop around Dove Lake. Nestled in the heart of Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, the Dove Lake Circuit is one of Australia’s most stunning walking tracks. It’s more than a walk—it’s a chance to connect with the raw, untouched beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness.
Walk Summary
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Distance: 6 km circuit
- Grade: 3 (Some bushwalking experience recommended; tracks may include short steep hills, rough surfaces, and steps.)
About the Walk
This walk is a signature experience of each of our mulitiday tours of Tasmania. This 6-kilometer loop, encircling the glacially carved Dove Lake, offers breathtaking views and tranquil landscapes, making it a favorite among nature lovers. The trail winds through diverse scenery, from the mossy, magical Ballroom Forest to glacier-carved rock formations and sandy lake beaches. The highlight is undoubtedly the dramatic silhouette of Cradle Mountain reflected on the lake’s surface on a clear day.
The well-signed track is easy to follow. We walk the track in a clockwise direction, as suggested by Tasmania Parks.
Difficulty
The circuit is suitable for those with good mobility and moderate fitness. The track features a mix of boardwalks, steps, gravel, and rocky sections. We allow two to three hours for a leisurely pace.
What to Bring
- Day-pack essentials: Food, water (1.5–2L), a quality rain jacket, sun protection, and warm clothing.
- Footwear: Solid, comfortable walking shoes or boots to prevent trips and falls on uneven terrain.
- Be prepared: Tasmania’s weather is unpredictable. Snow is possible year-round, so always pack for adverse conditions.
Why Choose a Guided Experience?
Our guided experiences ensure a deeper understanding of the park’s significance. Learn about its UNESCO World Heritage status, its connection to the Tasmanian Aboriginal palawa people of the Big River Tribe (dating back over 10,000 years), and its unique flora and fauna. Our passionate guides will share fascinating insights and stories about Cradle Mountain, enhancing your experience. Their enthusiasm is catching!
On the Day
Your guide will explain the route, safety risks, and weather conditions, ensuring you’re fully prepared. If the circuit feels beyond your fitness or mobility level, or if you’re looking for a greater challenge (like the Marion’s Lookout summit walk, weather permitting), your guide will suggest alternatives so you can make an informed choice.
Regardless of the route, a day in Cradle Mountain National Park is an exhilarating escape into nature. Join one our tours of Tasmania and decide for yourself whether the Dove Lake Circuit truly is Tasmania’s best short walk!
