The park is home to numerous endemic Tasmanian species, including the Tasmanian Devil, Bennett's Wallaby, and Pademelon. Wombats are frequently spotted grazing in open areas, particularly around Ronny Creek. Bird enthusiasts can observe endemic species such as the Black Currawong and Green Rosella, while the endangered Wedge-tailed Eagle soars above the peaks. After dark, nocturnal species including quolls and possums become active. The park also provides habitat for several threatened species, including the Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagle and the Clarence Galaxias fish.
The park showcases diverse vegetation zones, from alpine heathlands to ancient rainforests. Notable species include the slow-growing King Billy and Pencil Pines, some over 1000 years old, and the distinctive Deciduous Beech (Nothofagus gunnii), Australia's only native deciduous tree. The park bursts with color during spring and summer when alpine wildflowers bloom, including the Tasmanian Waratah, Mountain Rocket, and numerous species of orchids. Ancient cushion plants and hardy alpine species create stunning mosaic patterns in the higher elevations.
The dramatic landscape of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair was shaped by extensive glaciation over millions of years. The distinctive jagged peaks, including the iconic Cradle Mountain, are composed of dolerite columns formed during the Jurassic period approximately 165 million years ago. Deep U-shaped valleys, cirque lakes, and moraine deposits throughout the park provide clear evidence of the region's glacial history, while the park's numerous lakes, including Lake St Clair (Australia's deepest natural freshwater lake), occupy glacially carved basins.
The area has deep Aboriginal heritage, with the Palawa people inhabiting the region for thousands of years before European settlement. The park was established in 1922, largely through the conservation efforts of Gustav Weindorfer and his wife Kate, who campaigned to protect the area's unique wilderness. Their rustic Waldheim Chalet, built in 1912, still stands as a testament to early tourism in the region. The park gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1982 as part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
The park's most iconic landmark is Cradle Mountain itself, with its distinctive jagged peak reflected in the mirror-like surface of Dove Lake. The Overland Track, one of Australia's premier hiking experiences, stretches 65km through the park from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. Other significant features include Waldheim Chalet, the glacial Dove Lake with its famous boathouse, Marion's Lookout offering panoramic views, and Lake St Clair, Australia's deepest natural freshwater lake at 167 meters. The park also features numerous day walks, including the popular Dove Lake Circuit and Enchanted Walk.
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair experiences a cool temperate climate with significant seasonal variation. Visitors should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions year-round, with snow possible even in summer months. Winter (June-August) brings regular snowfall and average temperatures between -2°C to 7°C, while summer (December-February) temperatures typically range from 8°C to 23°C. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the park receiving an average of 2800mm annually, making waterproof gear essential for any visit.
Australia
-41.8330°, 146.0330°
1922
1614
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The park features ancient rainforests, alpine heathlands, and glacial lakes. It is home to diverse wildlife and includes the famous Overland Track walking trail.