Adventure in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania!

Devils at Cradle Wildlife Park

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating journey to Tasmania"s Devils at Cradle Wildlife Park, a sanctuary nestled in the pristine wilderness of Cradle Mountain. This adventure promises intimate encounters with the enigmatic Tasmanian devils, offering insights into their conservation.

### Getting There

Fly into Launceston or Hobart and drive to Cradle Mountain, a scenic journey of roughly 2.5 hours from either city. The park is located just a few minutes from the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, well-signposted and accessible by car.

### Day 1: Arrival and Night Feeding Tour

Arrive by late afternoon and settle into one of the cozy lodges nearby. As dusk falls, join the "After Dark Feeding Tour" at Devils at Cradle. This nocturnal tour gives you a unique chance to see Tasmanian devils in their most active state. Watch the fascinating feeding habits and social interactions of these creatures, all under the guidance of knowledgeable keepers who offer insights into the ongoing conservation efforts.

### Day 2: Explore and Engage

Start your morning with a "Day Keeper Tour". This immersive experience allows you to participate in feeding the devils and other inhabitants like quolls and wombats, learning about their diets and behavior. After lunch, take a guided hike in the Cradle Mountain National Park, exploring its diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes.

### Interesting Facts:

- The Tasmanian devil, once abundant throughout Australia, is now found only in Tasmania.

- Devils at Cradle is involved in vital breeding programs to combat the Devil Facial Tumour Disease, which threatens the species.

### Day 3: Conservation in Action

Conclude your visit by engaging in a "Conservation in Action" workshop, where you can assist in the ongoing research projects or habitat restoration efforts. It’s a fulfilling end to an adventure that not only thrills but also contributes positively to the preservation of Tasmania"s wildlife heritage.

This adventure-filled itinerary at Devils at Cradle offers a deep dive into the world of one of Australia"s most iconic animals, combining ecological education with hands-on experiences in a breathtaking natural setting.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Lake St. Clair

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure to Australia"s deepest freshwater lake, Lake St. Clair, nestled at the southern end of the iconic Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park in Tasmania. Renowned for its pristine wilderness and part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, this stunning locale promises unforgettable experiences for every adventure enthusiast.

Day 1: Arrival and Trekking

Touch down in Hobart and rent a car for a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Lake St. Clair. Begin your adventure with the Watersmeet Trail, a gentle hike where the Cuvier and Hugel rivers meet, marveling at the lush, forested paths and the chance to spot endemic wildlife like the Tasmanian devil or echidna. The trail leads you back to Lake St. Clair Lodge, your base for the night. Refresh yourself and enjoy some local cuisine at the lodge’s restaurant, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.

Day 2: Kayaking and Exploring

Rise early and rent a kayak to explore the serene waters of Lake St. Clair. Paddle through the mirror-like reflections on the lake, surrounded by ancient rainforeths and rugged highlands. For the more adventurous, the challenge of summiting Mount Rufus awaits—a demanding hike offering breathtaking panoramas from the top.

Interesting Facts

- Lake St. Clair is over 190 meters deep, making it the deepest lake in Australia.

- The area around the lake holds archaeological evidence of Aboriginal occupation dating back 10,000 years, highlighting its cultural significance.

Day 3: Departure

Conclude your adventure by taking a leisurely walk around the lake"s edge in the morning, capturing photos of the mist rising off the tranquil water. Drive back to Hobart for your departure, filled with memories of a true Tasmanian adventure.

This compact yet thrilling itinerary ensures you experience the best of Lake St. Clair’s natural beauty and adventure offerings, all at your own pace.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Cradle Mountain

Why Visit?

Adventure Lover"s Guide to Cradle Mountain

Day 1: Arrival and Dove Lake Circuit

Kickstart your Cradle Mountain adventure by flying into Launceston Airport. Rent a car for a scenic 2.5-hour drive directly to Cradle Mountain. On arrival, head for the iconic Dove Lake Circuit, a 6 km track that offers stunning vistas of Cradle Mountain itself and serene Dove Lake. This easy trail is perfect for acclimatizing to the park’s beauty and terrain. Be sure to capture the famous Boatshed photograph!

Day 2: Summit Cradle Mountain

Prepare for an exhilarating full-day hike to the summit of Cradle Mountain. Starting early from the Dove Lake car park, take the Lake Rodway Track ascending steeply to reach the summit (1,545 meters). It"s a challenging 8-hour return trip, but you"re rewarded with panoramic views of Tasmania’s wilderness. Ensure you’re well-equipped with sturdy boots, and always check weather conditions; the area is known for rapid changes.

Interesting Fact: Cradle Mountain is composed of dolerite columns, forming its distinctive craggy peaks.

Day 3: Canyoning in Dove Canyon

For a pulse-pounding thrill, join a guided canyoning tour in Dove Canyon. The full-day adventure includes abseiling, jumping, and sliding through pristine waterways. Highlights include the 10-meter “Laundry Chute” slide and a daring 12-meter jump at “The Coffin.” This experience requires a good fitness level and a brave heart!

Day 4: Waldheim Cabins and Departure

On your final morning, explore the historic Waldheim Cabins, built by Gustav and Kate Weindorfer, the pioneers of Cradle Mountain’s tourism. The charming cabins are nestled in ancient rainforest and offer a tranquil retreat. Later, drive back to Launceston to return your rental and catch your departing flight, filled with unforgettable memories of Cradle Mountain’s wild heart.

Remember: Always respect wildlife and natural habitats, preserving the beauty for future adventurers!

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.