Trail Fast Facts

Ronny Creek to Cradle Mountain Summit is a 14km, grade 4 hike in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 6-7 hrs to complete.

Length: 14km

Duration: 6-7 hrs

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Circuit

Start: Ronny Creek

End: Ronny Creek

Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Cethana

From state capital: 329km

Latitude: -41.63597503307641

Longitude: 145.9491017460823

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

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Warning

Hiking in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park can be challenging, especially in alpine areas where conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold, wet, and windy weather at any time of year, and bring appropriate gear, like waterproof clothing and sturdy boots. The trails can be steep and rocky, so only attempt if you have a reasonable level of fitness and experience. Always check weather forecasts and track conditions before starting your hike.

Hike Overview

The Ronny Creek to Cradle Mountain Summit hike is a 14-kilometre, grade 4 route in Tasmania’s stunning Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Typically taking between five and seven hours to complete, depending on your pace, this trail offers a mix of challenge and reward, with breathtaking views and diverse landscapes to explore.

The journey begins at Ronny Creek Carpark, where the path winds southwest towards Crater Lake. Early on, the trail climbs steadily to Marions Lookout, a spectacular vantage point offering panoramic views over both Dove and Crater Lakes. Continuing on, the route leads past the historic Kitchen Hut, a shelter often used by hikers tackling the Overland Track. From here, the push to Cradle Mountain’s summit begins.

The ascent to the summit is challenging, with rocky terrain requiring focus and steady footing. However, the effort is richly rewarded with sweeping views that stretch across the surrounding wilderness, showcasing the dramatic peaks and valleys of this iconic region. After soaking in the summit’s beauty, the return leg retraces the path to Kitchen Hut before diverting left at a junction towards Marigold Valley. Along the way, there’s another opportunity to pause and take in the views over Crater Lake from Crater Peak before descending back to Ronny Creek Carpark.

Cradle Mountain is a defining feature of the northern section of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Its rugged silhouette, carved by ancient glacial forces, is surrounded by an ever-changing landscape. From alpine heathlands and buttongrass plains to stands of deciduous beech that blaze with colour in autumn, the environment is as varied as it is striking. Crystal-clear streams tumble down from the peaks, ancient pines reflect in glacial lakes, and wildlife like wombats, echidnas, and currawongs are a frequent sight.

This region also serves as the starting point for the renowned Overland Track, a six-day trek through some of Tasmania’s most spectacular mountain terrain. Whether you’re tackling the Overland Track or exploring shorter walks, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is an essential destination for nature lovers.

The park’s international significance is reflected in its "Twin Parks" agreement with Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve in China, another World Heritage-listed site celebrated for its natural beauty. With numerous trails catering to all fitness levels, Cradle Mountain is a perfect base for hikes ranging from relaxing strolls to invigorating challenges. Comfortable cabin accommodation at places like Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages provides a welcoming retreat after a day exploring this remarkable area.

Other walks in the area

Dove Lake Circuit

Duration: 2 hours
This gentle loop is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, offering stunning views of Cradle Mountain, lush temperate rainforest, quartzite beaches, and subalpine flora. Starting from the Dove Lake car park, the track follows the left side of the lake, winding through rainforest and alongside pristine beaches. Highlights include the enchanting Ballroom Forest and the picturesque boat shed before completing the loop back to the car park.

Marion's Lookout

Duration: 2.5 hours

Marion's Lookout can be reached via two routes. The scenic path passes Lake Lilla and Wombat Pool, offering gradual inclines and stunning scenery along the way. For those seeking a quicker but more challenging option, take the direct route from the boat shed up the steep incline. Be prepared for the climb—it’s a workout, but the panoramic views are well worth the effort.

Hansons Peak

Duration: 3.5 hours
Start on the left side of Dove Lake and ascend to Hansons Peak, where spectacular views await. From there, continue along the Face Track, descend past Lake Wilks, and return via the Ballroom Forest, finishing along the right side of Dove Lake. While the trek offers incredible scenery, note that the climbs to Hansons Peak and the descent past Lake Wilks are steep and may be challenging for some.

Crater Peak

Duration: 2.5 hours
This route begins at the Ronny Creek car park and follows the Overland Track before branching off onto the Horse Track. You can return the same way for a straightforward hike. For a longer option, continue to the junction near Kitchen Hut, then descend via Marion's Lookout, passing Crater Lake and Crater Falls on your way back to Ronny Creek. This extended route takes about 4.5 hours and includes additional scenic highlights.

Dove Canyon Track

Duration: 3 hours
Depart near the Cradle Mountain Lodge and follow the Pencil Pine River past Knyvet Falls. The track climbs through the rugged Dove Canyon gorge, passing myrtle rainforest before opening onto buttongrass plains and forested areas near Quailes Hill. It loops back to Cradle Mountain Road, requiring a 700-metre walk to the visitor centre.

Cradle Mountain Summit

Duration: 5.5 hours
The fastest route to Cradle Mountain’s summit begins with a steep ascent to Marion’s Lookout from Dove Lake, returning via Wombat Pool. While steep, it’s manageable for experienced hikers but should be avoided in icy or poor weather due to exposure. From Kitchen Hut, the summit return trip takes about two hours, with the path marked by cairns and red paint on rocks. The final stretch involves scrambling over large dolerite boulders, leading to the summit marked by a direction table highlighting features of northern Tasmania’s stunning landscape. For a slightly easier alternative, start from Ronny Creek along the Overland Track, passing Crater Peak and following the Horse Track. This option adds about an hour but offers a gentler approach.

Other Short Walks Around Cradle Mountain

Pencil Pine Falls and Rainforest Walk: A peaceful 20-minute circuit near the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre.
Enchanted Walk: A 20-minute loop starting at the bridge near the National Park entrance, perfect for a quick nature fix.
Knyvet Falls Walk: A 40-minute return walk beginning across from the Cradle Mountain Lodge.
King Billy Walk: Starting at the Cradle Mountain Lodge car park, this walk takes you through ancient forests featuring majestic King Billy pines.
Waldheim and Weindorfer’s Forest Walk: A 20-minute circuit from Waldheim Chalet, offering insight into Gustav Weindorfer’s pioneering life at Cradle Mountain.
Lake Lilla Walk: A short 30-minute return walk from the Dove Lake car park, ideal for a relaxed stroll.
Cradle Valley Boardwalk: This 2.75-hour walk stretches from the Visitor Centre to Dove Lake. It can be broken into three sections: Visitor Centre to Snake Hill (1 hour), Snake Hill to Ronny Creek (45 minutes), and Ronny Creek to Dove Lake via Lake Lilla (1 hour).

These trails showcase Cradle Mountain's diverse landscapes, making it easy to find an option that suits your pace and interests.

Tips

Be prepared for sudden weather changes: Tasmania’s alpine areas can experience snow, rain, strong winds, and sunshine at any time of year. Between October and March, bushfires are also a risk. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
When exploring alpine areas, it’s essential to carry more than just basic walking gear. At a minimum, pack a waterproof jacket with a hood and storm flap (made from seam-sealed, breathable fabric like Gore-Tex), waterproof over-trousers, sturdy walking boots, and warm clothing such as a fleece or wool jumper, thermal base layers, a hat, and gloves. These items can make all the difference if conditions turn cold, wet, or windy.
Safety risks: Serious incidents, including fatalities, have occurred when walkers were caught unprepared in harsh conditions. Children, older individuals, and those with health conditions are particularly at risk.
Follow track signage: Signs are provided for your safety. Stay on designated paths to reduce risks and protect the sensitive alpine environment.

Map and GPX file

Ronny Creek to Cradle Mountain Summit (14km)

Total distance: 13839 m
Max elevation: 1519 m
Min elevation: 868 m
Total climbing: 891 m
Total descent: -891 m

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Trailhead

Track Grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Getting there

Ronny Creek to Cradle Mountain Summit (14km)

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. Once at Cradle Mountain Village, you can either take the convenient shuttle bus or drive to the Dove Lake Carpark. If opting for the shuttle, be sure to check the last departure time, as hikes in this stunning area can be time-consuming.

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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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Ronny Creek to Cradle Mountain Summit (14km)

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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.

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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.

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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

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