Cradle Mountain Summit
A demanding Grade 5 alpine ascent to the 1,545 m summit of Cradle Mountain, involving large boulders, exposure and full-day self-reliance.
Route overview
The full summit outing climbs from the Dove Lake area through glacial and alpine terrain before reaching the upper boulder field. The final section is not ordinary walking: progress requires repeated use of hands, balance across large rocks and comfort with exposed mountain terrain. The summit rewards experienced parties with broad views across the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, but the route’s value depends on conservative weather judgment.
Trail facts
- Country
- Australia
- Distance
- 12.8 km return
- Typical duration
- about 8 hours return
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- about 600 m
- Best season
- fine, stable and substantially snow-free conditions only
- Trail type
- out-and-back with loop-linked approach options
Safety context
PWS restricts this objective conceptually to very experienced bushwalkers with navigation and emergency first-aid skills. Do not attempt it under snow, ice, heavy rain, strong wind, thunderstorm risk or poor visibility. Carry full alpine clothing, map and compass, emergency shelter, light, first aid, extra food and preferably a PLB. Set a strict turnaround time that protects the final shuttle or alternative transport plan. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
PWS restricts this objective conceptually to very experienced bushwalkers with navigation and emergency first-aid skills. Do not attempt it under snow, ice, heavy rain, strong wind, thunderstorm risk or poor visibility. Carry full alpine clothing, map and compass, emergency shelter, light, first aid, extra food and preferably a PLB. Set a strict turnaround time that protects the final shuttle or alternative transport plan.
Highlights
`australia`, `tasmania`, `cradle-mountain`, `summit`, `grade-5`, `scrambling`, `alpine`, `expert-hike`, `exposure
Why find a buddy
Buddy matching must prioritise demonstrated Grade 5 experience, scrambling confidence, compatible risk tolerance and willingness to turn back. A social match alone is insufficient for this route.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.