Crater Lake Circuit

A compact circuit linking rainforest, alpine lakes and open moorland below Cradle Mountain.

Route overview

Follow the signed circuit through the Crater Lake and Wombat Pool area before returning to the starting corridor.

The circuit passes a sequence of glacial lakes and varied vegetation communities at lower elevation than the summit routes. It remains an alpine environment where rain, wind, snow and slippery surfaces can change the character of the walk quickly.

Trail facts

Country
Australia
Region
Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
Distance
5.7 km circuit
Typical duration
2 hours
Difficulty
Moderate
Elevation gain
Not officially stated
Best season
Year-round only with conditions-appropriate equipment
Trail type
Loop

Access and logistics

Permits and access
No hiking permit; valid Tasmania parks pass required

Safety context

Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.

Cold wind, snow, ice, mud, slippery roots, reduced visibility and temporary maintenance closures

Highlights

Crater Lake, Wombat Pool, rainforest, alpine moorland and mountain views

Why find a buddy

A buddy helps with slippery sections, changing conditions and navigation at track junctions.

Primary source

Open the primary route 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.

Open the interactive BuddieHikes trail guide