Cradle Mountain Active Day Trip

FromA$270
12 hours
Hobart, Australia

About this activity

Join a guided hike around Dove Lake, explore Cradle Mountain's alpine beauty, and enjoy breathtaking views on this active day trip from Hobart.

Highlights

  • Guided hike around Dove Lake
  • Breathtaking views of Cradle Mountain
  • Explore diverse alpine flora and fauna
  • Visit iconic Cradle Mountain landmarks
  • Experience Tasmania's natural beauty up close

Full description

Discover the stunning landscapes of Cradle Mountain on this active day trip from Hobart. Led by experienced guides, you'll embark on a scenic hike around Dove Lake, taking in panoramic views of Cradle Mountain's rugged peaks and lush forests. Along the way, learn about the area's unique flora and fauna, and capture memorable photos of Tasmania's natural beauty. This adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking an immersive outdoor experience. Please note that meals and personal expenses are not included in the tour price. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with Tasmania's wilderness on a memorable day trip from Hobart.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided hike around Dove Lake
  • Transportation from Hobart to Cradle Mountain
  • National Park entry fees
  • Meals and personal expenses

Itinerary

1

Our guests will enjoy up to five hours inside Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park - at the Cradle Mountain / Dove Lake end. This time will go quickly as either independently, or with your Driver/Guide, you will walk the trails, hike up to high lookouts, walk around Dove Lake, visit the Interpretation Centre or just sit down and soak up the natural beauty (or a comfy chair by the fire at Cradle Mountain Lodge.) This "Big Day Out" is for lovers of nature who want to access somewhere remote but without the costs and extra packing associated with accommodation, overnight stays.

Duration: 5 hoursAdmission: YES
2

we stop in delightful Deloraine for breakfast at Mumma Buzz cafe - a fantastic menu, a beautiful country town cafe. A good breakfast here at 9am will power you through the day.

Duration: 45 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

On the return leg to Hobart, we enjoy our evening meal at Empire Hotel - a great menu and really nice food, serving Travellers and Locals here for over 150 years.

Duration: 45 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Pass by: When we cross in the morning - signifies leaving Greater Hobart and when we cross it again in the evening, it means we are almost back to your comfortable bed after an awesome day. Yay!

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

We get close to here on our first stop in the picturesque village of Ross

Duration: 5 minAdmission: NO
6

Pass by: cross over - entrance to Ross

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

walk past on morning stroll

Duration: 1 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Our morning "comfort" stop. 15-20 minutes here to stretch, stroll, toilet. One of Tasmania's prettiest Towns. The Village Bakery is also a chance to grab coffee/muffin/pie to go, and also one of the best gift shops for Tasmanian gifts anywhere - if you need a Tassie Devil, postcard or fridge magnet you can easily grab your gift or memento here

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9

up to 3.5 hours allow for this hike.This is one of the hiking trail options available - classified as moderate

Duration: 3 minAdmission: YES
10

Allow up to 3.5 hours for this hike. This is one of the hiking trail options available - classified as difficult

Duration: 3 minAdmission: YES
11

THis is where our brilliant day hikes finish and I meet you. This is where we always see Wombats as well.

Duration: 2 minAdmission: YES
12

Yes! this is the main focus of our wonderful, Nature and wilderness focused day. Approx 5 hours in total to experience the highlights as part of a guided experience

Duration: 5 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • The tour involves a moderate level of physical activity.
  • Meals and personal expenses are not included in the tour price.
  • The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress accordingly.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
  • Bring a water bottle and any personal snacks.
  • Ensure you have a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler reviews

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145 reviews
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Great day out to Cradle Mountain!

Great day out to Cradle Mountain! Despite the rain, I enjoyed the walk around Dove Lake, watching the clouds whip past the mountaintops. Sam took great care of us covering great distances across the island and ensuring we were fed.

Muhsin_KJun 19, 2026VIATOR

Best Tour Ever

I’ve been to 35 countries and this is the best tour so far. Very well planned, each and every stop is carefully thought of so the journey to the mountain is in itself enjoyable as well. The stargazing at night on our way back was memorable for life. The restaurants are absolutely lovely, and would worth a visit on their own even not for the trip. The mountain is stunning and the hiking trails are very navigable even if you don’t exercise regularly. You wouldn’t want to miss this. You won’t be able to find similar landscapes anywhere else, and not on other parts of tassie neither.

Zhiyuan_GJun 11, 2026VIATOR

Cradle Mountain Experience

I was worried about the long day I was about to embark on but Sam had it broken up so with numerous stops along the way. Breakfast was absolutely delicious. Then onto Cradle Mountain for the Most amazing day ever. We finished our day with dinner at a country pub. The food was yum yum. I can’t rate Sam highly enough, experienced driver, excellent guide and all round a very nice person. If you are looking for a fun filled day this is your trip.

beva427Jun 11, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Excellent tour - don't miss out

This was the best tour experience we have ever had. Don't be afraid of the long day. Our tour guide Sam was very skilled at making strategic stops along the way to and from Cradle Mountain National Park so the drive did not feel too long. His music playlist was wonderful and I wish I had asked him for a copy. The trip is so well planned you never feel rushed or 'stuck'. It was perfect. Once you arrive at Cradle Mountain you have lots of options of hiking, strolling or hanging out at the lodge. You could also ride the park shuttle bus to each stop and get out to explore each area. We chose to walk around the lake, about a 3 mile trip. It was so beautiful and very manageable for two 70+ year olds. Don't miss out on this wonderful experience. On the way home we stopped for dinner at a local restaurant. Sam called our orders in ahead so dinner was ready when we arrived. This was so helpful in keeping the drive back to Hobart on schedule. We got back at 9-9:30 pm. Yes it is a long day but you won't regret taking this tour. It is our favorite memory of our time on Tasmania.

Margaret_WApr 28, 2026VIATOR

I really enjoyed this...

I really enjoyed this activity! Sam was very friendly, and his explanations were excellent. He also gave us helpful route suggestions. Many thanks to him!

yue_pApr 9, 2026VIATOR