Cradle Mountain National Park

Tasmania Wilderness World Heritage Area

17.02.2013 - 18.02.2013 26 °C

Tasmania's most recognisable landmark is the craggy profile of Cradle Mountain reflected in the waters of Dove Lake and we were eager to see this for ourselves. We camped at the caravan park near the visitors center in Cradle Mountain National Park and did a trip to Dove Lake in the park.

The park, which is part of the Tasmania Wilderness World Heritage Area, covers an area of almost 125,000 ha which is characterised by a rugged, glaciated landscape with over 25 major peaks and a wide range of glacial lakes, U-shaped valleys and waterfalls.

We did the 6,2 km circuit walk around Dove Lake on a cloudless day and the jagged contours of Cradle Mountain reflected in the tannin stained waters of Dove Lake epitomises the feel of a wild landscape. Ancient pines mirrored in the still waters of this glacial lake and temperate rain forests with pandani palms add to the harmony of the scenes around the lake. We also detoured to Lake Lilla, another glacial lake, close to Dove Lake.

We will travel back to Devonport today to board the Spirit of Tasmania back to Melbourne tomorrow evening.

Cradle Mountain reflection