Launceston is Tasmania's second-largest city, with a gorge right in the centre; Cradle Mountain is one of Australia's best-known hiking areas — with a lake below the summit and wombats by the track. Here you'll find all the checked spots from our map with tips.
Launceston has an airport with flights to the mainland, and the ferry from Melbourne arrives in Devonport, about an hour away. Cradle Mountain is about two hours by car. In the national park a shuttle bus runs from the visitor centre to Dove Lake.
November to April is the best time for walking. The weather at Cradle Mountain turns quickly — it can snow even in summer. In winter, higher tracks are often icy.
A basic, free site in the highlands, about an hour from Cradle Mountain. Nights are often frosty, even in summer.
The loop of about 6 kilometres around Dove Lake below Cradle Mountain, with the old boatshed as the best-known motif. On still mornings the mountain is reflected in the lake. Shuttle bus from the visitor centre; park entry required. The weather turns quickly — always carry a rain jacket.
A steep climb with views over Dove Lake and the summit of Cradle Mountain. Best from November to April; often icy in winter.
A gorge right in Launceston, ten minutes from the centre, with walking tracks, a suspension bridge and a free swimming pool. The chairlift costs money, the paths don't. Lovely in the afternoon.
A short path through the rainforest at the park entrance — in the evening the wombats come out. National park pass required.
A wine valley north of Launceston with lots of cellar doors. Don't drive yourself after tastings.
About 6 kilometres, roughly two to three hours. A shuttle bus runs from the visitor centre to the lake.
In the evening on the Enchanted Walk near the park entrance and on the meadows around the visitor centre.
Yes, in the free swimming pool in the gorge, ten minutes from central Launceston.
All spots on the Launceston & Cradle Mountain map. Nearby: Hobart and Freycinet.
Updated September 2026. Checked against official sources and operator websites. Prices, opening hours and seasons change — check before you go.