Trail Fast Facts

Enchanted Forest Walk is a 1.6km, grade 2 hike in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 45 mins to complete.

Length: 1.6km

Duration: 45 mins

Grade 2 (Easy)

Style: Circuit

Start: Cradle Mountain Visitors Centre

End: Cradle Mountain Visitors Centre

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Cethana

From state capital: 321km

Latitude: -41.59602838301203

Longitude: 145.9310102623744

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

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Reviews

Hike Overview

The Enchanted Forest Walk is a 1.6km, grade 2 trail located in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. Taking around 45 minutes to complete, this walk is perfect for visitors of all ages. It’s an easy, scenic route that offers a delightful mix of nature, from a cascading river to wombat burrows, and the enchanting atmosphere of old-growth rainforest.

Starting out, the track takes you through buttongrass moorland before leading you into the cool, temperate rainforest along the edges of Pencil Pine Creek. As you walk, you’ll come across three interpretive tunnels, which are sure to bring out the playful side of both children and adults. Crawling through these tunnels adds a bit of fun to the experience, making it an enjoyable outing for families.

Along the western bank of Pencil Pine Creek, you’ll spot several wombat burrows just off the track. While wombats are more commonly seen at dawn or dusk, they are often active in the area. The species found in Tasmania is the common wombat, one of only three wombat species in Australia. These fascinating creatures are the largest burrowing mammals, and their burrows can extend up to 20 metres in length and more than 2 metres below ground. Wombats use their powerful legs and strong claws to dig their burrows, and their constantly growing front teeth—similar to a beaver’s—help them chew through any obstacles they encounter. Female wombats also have a unique backward-facing pouch to prevent dirt and debris from entering while they burrow.

This short but charming walk provides a relaxing opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Tasmania, with the added bonus of wildlife encounters and some light-hearted moments along the way. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the magic of the rainforest while learning about the fascinating creatures that call it home.

For more information about this hiking trail please visit Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania

Tips

Park entry fees apply.
Picnic and toilet facilities nearby.
Involves one short moderate hill.
Supervise children, waters in lake, severe weather conditions all year round, weather may change quickly, tracks are difficult to navigate when covered in snow and may be impassable.
No pets, firearms or bicycles.

Map and GPX file

Enchanted Forest Walk (1.6km)

Total distance: 1597 m
Max elevation: 823 m
Min elevation: 802 m
Total climbing: 33 m
Total descent: -33 m

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Trailhead

Track Grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

Getting there

Enchanted Forest Walk (1.6km)

Getting to the Cradle Mountain trailhead is straightforward, with several options depending on your starting point. From Devonport, it’s a 1.5-hour drive via the B19 and B14 south to Sheffield, then along the C136 and C132 to the park entrance. If you're coming from Launceston, allow 2.5 hours, taking the Bass Highway (A1) before following the signposted route via B13 and C156 through Sheffield. Travelling from the west, it’s a 2-hour drive along the A10 and C132 from Queenstown or 1.5 hours from Burnie via B18 through Ridgley, then the A10 and C132 to the park.

Get directions

Photo gallery

Upload your photos

If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.

A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.

About the region

Exploring Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, located in the heart of Tasmania, is an extraordinary destination within the Tasmanian World Heritage Area. Just over two hours’ drive (150 km) from Launceston and around four hours (250 km) from Hobart, this park is celebrated for its striking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundance of wildlife. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply enjoy the serenity of nature, this park has something to offer.

The park is a showcase of nature's diversity, from glacial lakes and alpine moorlands to dense rainforests and dramatic peaks. Its seasonal transformations are equally captivating. Winter blankets the terrain with snow, while autumn brings vibrant hues as the deciduous fagus turns shades of yellow, orange, and red. In spring, the bushland comes alive with joeys and echidnas, while summer invites visitors to wade into crystal-clear lakes framed by blooming wildflowers.

Cradle Mountain itself is an icon of the park, offering a network of walking tracks for all levels. Easy strolls take you through lush forests and past tranquil streams, while more challenging hikes, such as the renowned Overland Track, traverse rugged terrain. Spanning 80 kilometres and typically completed in 5-6 days, the Overland Track is a must for experienced bushwalkers, offering a journey through breathtaking alpine scenery. For those who prefer shorter walks, the park’s well-maintained trails make exploring its wonders accessible to everyone.

Lake St Clair, situated at the southern end of the park, is equally enchanting. Known as leeawuleena—‘sleeping water’—by the Aboriginal people, the lake exudes tranquillity, particularly on calm days when its glassy surface reflects the surrounding landscape. Lake St Clair is the endpoint of the Overland Track, making it a rewarding finish line for hikers who’ve traversed the park’s diverse terrain.

Beyond the iconic multi-day hike, Lake St Clair offers an array of bushwalks and trails. Short tracks wind through ancient rainforests, while longer paths lead to stunning mountain summits and secluded alpine lakes. Each trail promises an immersive experience, with the chance to encounter wildlife like wombats, platypus, Tasmanian devils, and the distinctive black currawong along the way.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park combines natural beauty, adventure, and opportunities for reflection, ensuring every visit is unforgettable. Whether you're seeking an adventurous hike, a casual walk, or a family-friendly outing, this park provides it all.

Want to find the best trails in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.

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Looking for things to do in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.

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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans

Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.

Reviews

Enchanted Forest Walk (1.6km)

3 Reviews on “Enchanted Forest Walk (1.6km)”

Overall rating

Mandy Pitt

It is beautiful. One of the many walks I did while visiting Tassie last December.

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Sheryl Bayliss

Looks beautiful

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Melinda Ritchie

Nat Fordred

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Sarah Millard

Renee Magor

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Libby Dukes

This is such a lovely walk and great for young kids too.

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Brandon Leaning

Penny Felton

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Julia Vaughan

Simone Amos see… ??âœ¨

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Loretta Guthrie

Melody Perrin This is the most beautiful short walk in Tassie i mentioned to you.

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Bree Bonaccorso

Oliver Bonaccorso

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Natalie Turner

I’ve been here and done this ?

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Shannon Maes

Shaye Meaghan Scotney

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Anne Xavier

Greg

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Haidee Leigh

Sheryl Bayliss

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Libby Dukes

This is such a lovely walk and great for young kids too.

16/02/2022, 11:59

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.

Explore Safe

While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.

Weather

Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Trail Fast Facts

Hike Overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

Enchanted Forest Walk (1.6km)