Trail Running in Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain is perhaps the most iconic trail running destination in Australia, with the 65 km Overland Track connecting it to Lake St Clair as one of the world's great wilderness journeys. The mountain itself on palawa Country sits at 1545m, surrounded by glacial lakes, ancient pencil pine groves, and the dolerite spires that make the skyline instantly recognisable. Day trails around Dove Lake and up to the summit provide world-class running with minimal approach time from the visitor centre. Alpine conditions require serious preparation and the weather is notoriously volatile. The running is extraordinary.
Region
Central Highlands, TAS
Difficulty
Challenging to Expert
Best Seasons
Summer, Autumn
Trails
4 featured
Terrain
Boardwalk, rocky dolerite boulder fields, buttongrass plains, pencil pine forest, and exposed alpine ridgeline. Surfaces vary from maintained boardwalk to extreme boulder scramble near the summit.
Best Trails
Dove Lake Circuit
Easy to ModerateThe classic introductory circuit of Dove Lake with Cradle Mountain reflected in the water.
Boardwalk and rocky lakeside track
Cradle Mountain Summit
ExpertThe true summit at 1545m requires serious boulder scrambling above Cradle Cirque. Class 3 terrain, no trail from the saddle.
Dolerite boulder scramble, no defined trail above the saddle
Overland Track Day 1 (Ronny Creek to Waterfall Valley)
ChallengingThe opening section of the Overland Track, passing the base of Cradle Mountain and reaching Waterfall Valley Hut.
Boardwalk, rocky alpine track, buttongrass
Pencil Pine Falls and Twisted Lakes Loop
ModerateA lesser-used loop through ancient pencil pine forest and a chain of small alpine tarns.
Forest boardwalk and alpine track
Gear Recommendations
Full waterproof jacket and pants mandatory for any summit or long route
Trail shoes with excellent traction on wet dolerite and mud
Carry emergency bivouac gear on summit or Overland Track runs
The visitor shuttle is required to access Dove Lake trailhead in peak season (no private cars)
Safety Tips
Summit conditions can deteriorate to blizzard in any month, check the Bureau of Meteorology before every run
The Cradle Mountain summit scramble above the saddle is class 3 terrain, only attempt in good conditions with scrambling experience
Snow can fall year-round on the summit plateau, be prepared for all conditions
Register your intentions with the Parks Tasmania ranger station if attempting the summit or Overland Track
Getting There
Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre is accessed via the Cradle Mountain Road from Devonport (80 km, 1 hr) or Launceston (150 km, 2 hrs). A paid shuttle is required from the visitor centre to Dove Lake in peak season (October to April). Park entry fees apply.
Post-Run Refuel
Cradle Mountain Lodge has a restaurant and pub open to day visitors. The Tavern Bar and Bistro at the lodge is the go-to for post-run food and a quiet beer in front of the fire.
Local Trail Events
Run Larapinta (Overland Track Stage Race)
Multi-day stagedA five-day staged trail running event covering the full 65 km Overland Track from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair, one of the most coveted entries in Australian trail running.
MarchTurn Your Trail Runs Into Territory
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
Can I run to the summit of Cradle Mountain?
Technically yes, but the route above the saddle requires serious boulder scrambling (class 3 terrain) with no marked trail. It should only be attempted by experienced runners in good weather with proper alpine gear.
Is Cradle Mountain suitable for beginner trail runners?
The Dove Lake Circuit (6 km) and Pencil Pine Falls Loop are accessible for fit beginners. All other routes require trail experience and proper alpine gear.
When can I visit Cradle Mountain without a shuttle?
Private vehicles can drive to Dove Lake outside peak season (approximately May to September). From October to April, a paid shuttle from the visitor centre is required.
What is the Overland Track?
The Overland Track is a 65 km wilderness trail from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. It is one of Australia's most famous multi-day walks and runs, typically taking 5-8 days on foot or faster for experienced trail runners.
How unpredictable is the weather at Cradle Mountain?
Extremely unpredictable. Snow can fall in any month. Wind, rain, fog, and sunshine can occur in the same morning. Always carry full waterproof gear and check the Bureau of Meteorology forecast before heading out.
