Dove Lake Circuit
Cradle Mountain’s classic lake circuit, combining the boatshed, glacial shoreline and cool-temperate Ballroom Forest.
Route overview
Follow the signed circuit around Dove Lake and return to the Dove Lake shelter.
Circle Dove Lake beneath the mountain’s dolerite face on a well-defined trail through open shoreline, forest and rocky sections. The route is an excellent introduction to the park but should not be treated as weatherproof.
Trail facts
- Country
- Australia
- Region
- Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
- Distance
- 6 km circuit
- Typical duration
- 2–3 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Not officially stated
- Best season
- Year-round, subject to snow, ice and shuttle access
- 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.
Fast weather changes, cold rain, snow or ice, slippery roots and rock, and shuttle timing
Highlights
Dove Lake boatshed, Ballroom Forest, glacial scenery and Cradle Mountain views
Why find a buddy
A strong social route for first meetups, with clear navigation and regular decision points if weather worsens.
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.