Enchanted Walk, Cradle Mountain - Image 1
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Enchanted Walk Cradle Mountain

4.6
·491k reviews·, Australia

Step into a fairytale on the Enchanted Walk, a magical rainforest loop with waterfalls and wildlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dawn & Dusk

Best for wildlife sightings

CrowdLow
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Enchanted Walk, Cradle Mountain - Image 1

Enchanted Walk Cradle Mountain

Best Time

Dawn & Dusk

Best for wildlife sightings

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a fairytale on the Enchanted Walk, a magical rainforest loop with waterfalls and wildlife.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"It felt like walking through a storybook, absolutely breathtaking and full of adorable friends!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Wombat Spotting Tips

Arrive at dawn or dusk for best chances. Look for burrows and listen for rustling. :wombat:

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

The Enchanted Walk is easy, but good shoes are a must for exploring the trails. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Enchanted Walk

Enchanted Walk

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

A magical 1.4km loop through old-growth rainforest, past Pencil Pine Falls, and with chances to see wombats.

Instagram+1
Wombat Sightings

Wombat Sightings

Ronny Creek, Enchanted Walk

Keep an eye out for these adorable marsupials, especially at dawn and dusk, blending into the grassy plains.

TikTok+1
Pencil Pine Falls

Pencil Pine Falls

Enchanted Walk

A beautiful cascading waterfall that adds to the enchanting atmosphere of the rainforest walk.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Wildlife

Catching wombats on the Enchanted Walk is a game of patience and timing. While they can be spotted any time, dawn and dusk offer the best chances. Beat the crowds and get lucky by arriving early. TikTok

Embrace the Elements

Cradle Mountain's beauty shines through all weather, even rain! Pack layers and waterproof gear, as the landscape transforms magically. The Enchanted Walk is stunning in any condition. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Dawn & Dusk
Why
Best for wildlife sightings
Crowd
Low
When
Early Mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Rainy days are magical too
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Wombats at Cradle Mountain are mostly out at dawn and dusk… but these 3 trails give you a shot at seeing them any time of day.     1    Ronny Creek – hop off the Cradle shuttle and follow the Overland boardwalk. Eyes sharp—wombats blend in here.     2    Enchanted Walk – early morning is your best chance. You’ll need to beat the crowds and get lucky.     3    Pencil Pine boardwalk – opposite Peppe...
@tasmaniatrails
5.3K likes • 42.6K views

🎯 Wombat Spotting Tips

Arrive at dawn or dusk for best chances. Look for burrows and listen for rustling. TikTok :wombat:

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

The Enchanted Walk is easy, but good shoes are a must for exploring the trails. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

In need of a nature escape? Tassie's wilderness and wildlife are waiting 💚 🎥: @Ivana 📍: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, lutruwita (@Discover Tasmania) #SeeAustralia #ComeAndSayGday #DiscoverTasmania #NorthWestTasmania ID: Two wombats walking and grazing side by side on a grassy plain.
@australia
4.7K likes • 60.6K views
The best times along the enchanted walk at Cradle Mountain
jawshwaa
29 likes • 287 views

☔ Embrace the Rain

Don't let rain deter you; the rainforest is stunning and magical in wet weather. Instagram+1 :umbrella:

🚗 Shuttle Bus Advice

Parking is limited; consider the shuttle bus service to access the park. Reddit :bus:

The Enchanted Walk at Cradle Mountain is just that. What a gorgeous stroll ✨ . . . . . #tasmaniawithkids #australiawithkids #travelwithkids #tas #tasmania #discovertasmania #tasmaniaparks #tasmaniawhyweloveit #tasmanian #instatasmania #visittasmania #seetasmania #offseasontasmania #tasmaniaaustralia #exploretasmania #cradlemountain #cradlemountainnationalpark #enchantedwalk #comedownforair #visit...
tasmaniawithkids
35 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Wombat Spotting Tips

Arrive at dawn or dusk for best chances. Look for burrows and listen for rustling. TikTok :wombat:

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

The Enchanted Walk is easy, but good shoes are a must for exploring the trails. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

☔ Embrace the Rain

Don't let rain deter you; the rainforest is stunning and magical in wet weather. Instagram+1 :umbrella:

🚗 Shuttle Bus Advice

Parking is limited; consider the shuttle bus service to access the park. Reddit :bus:

📸 Capture the Magic

The Enchanted Walk feels like a storybook; bring your camera for breathtaking views. Instagram+1 :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Enchanted Walk for its breathtaking beauty and fairytale-like atmosphere, making it a must-do at Cradle Mountain. The accessibility and potential for wildlife sightings, particularly wombats, are major highlights. Some find the walk a bit short, but its charm and scenic value are undeniable.

What People Like

Magical rainforest scenery
Easy and accessible
Wombat sightings

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Shorter than expected

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is primarily via shuttle bus from the visitor centre, especially after 8 AM. Driving your own car and parking can be restricted. Reddit The shuttle service is efficient and recommended for accessing key trailheads like the Enchanted Walk. Reddit

Parking is available at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. After 8 AM, private vehicle access to the core park area is restricted, making the shuttle bus the primary mode of transport. Reddit

While the Enchanted Walk is accessible via the park's shuttle bus system, private vehicle access to the immediate trailhead might be restricted during certain hours. It's best to use the shuttle to ensure easy access. Reddit

Shuttle bus operating hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website or inquire at the Visitor Centre for the most up-to-date schedule. Reddit

Yes, several tour operators offer day trips and multi-day tours to Cradle Mountain from Launceston and other major Tasmanian cities. These can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, an entry fee is required for Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Fees are typically per vehicle or per person for walk-in visitors. Purchase your pass online or at the Visitor Centre. TikTok

Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as families or those with annual passes. Check the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website for current pricing and concession information. TikTok

The Enchanted Walk is located within Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, so your park entry fee covers access to this trail. There isn't a separate ticket for the walk itself. Instagram

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, but visitor facilities and shuttle services have specific operating hours. Always check for current times. Instagram

While you can often purchase park entry on arrival, booking your park pass and shuttle tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The Enchanted Walk is a relatively short loop, typically taking around 20-30 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace. It's perfect for a quick immersion into the rainforest. Instagram

Absolutely! The Enchanted Walk is very family-friendly, with a well-maintained boardwalk and easy terrain, making it enjoyable for kids of all ages. Instagram+1

You have a good chance of spotting wombats, especially if you visit during dawn or dusk. Keep an eye out for their burrows and listen for movement in the undergrowth. TikTok+1

Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers. Waterproof clothing is highly recommended as the weather can change quickly, and the rainforest is beautiful even in the rain. Instagram+1

While there might not be toilets directly on the short Enchanted Walk loop itself, facilities are available at the main visitor centre and other key points within the national park. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Pencil Pine Falls is a highlight for photography. The moss-covered trees, ancient rainforest canopy, and the boardwalk itself offer many picturesque moments. Instagram

While exciting, remember to maintain a safe distance from wildlife like wombats. Use a zoom lens if possible to capture clear shots without disturbing them. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light can create a magical atmosphere in the rainforest. However, the walk is beautiful in all conditions, even on a moody, rainy day. Instagram+1

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient to capture the beauty of the Enchanted Walk. The natural light and scenery are the main stars. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the specific regulations for Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park before flying. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Enchanted Walk is an absolute gem for families! Its short, easy loop and magical rainforest setting make it incredibly engaging for children. The well-maintained boardwalk means little legs can manage it with ease, and the chance to spot wombats is a huge thrill. Instagram+1

Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for the weather to change – waterproof gear is a must! The walk is short enough that even younger children won't get tired, and the natural beauty provides endless fascination. It’s a perfect introduction to Tasmania’s stunning wilderness.

🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers, the Enchanted Walk offers a peaceful and accessible way to connect with nature. It's a great option for a reflective stroll or a quick dose of Tasmania's iconic scenery. Instagram The well-marked path and the possibility of wildlife sightings make it a rewarding experience. TikTok

If you're looking for more challenging hikes, the Enchanted Walk can be a pleasant warm-up or cool-down. Combine it with other trails like the Crater Lake Circuit for a more extensive day of exploration in the Cradle Mountain area. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Enchanted Walk is a photographer's delight, offering diverse subjects from cascading waterfalls to ancient rainforest flora. Pencil Pine Falls is a particularly photogenic spot, especially with the lush greenery surrounding it. Instagram

Experiment with different lighting conditions; the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy can create dramatic effects. Even on a rainy day, the mist and vibrant greens offer a unique, moody aesthetic. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the forest and a telephoto lens if you hope to photograph any wildlife from a distance. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the Enchanted Walk

The Enchanted Walk at Cradle Mountain is a short, accessible loop that truly lives up to its name. This 1.4km track winds through a magical old-growth rainforest, complete with buttongrass moorland and the picturesque Pencil Pine Falls. It's an immersive experience that feels like stepping into a fairytale, with moss-covered trees and a serene atmosphere. Instagram+1

This walk is renowned for its accessibility, making it a perfect choice for families and those seeking a gentler nature experience. The well-maintained boardwalk ensures easy passage, allowing visitors to focus on the stunning surroundings. Many visitors describe it as one of their all-time favorite walks due to its sheer beauty and the feeling of wonder it evokes. Instagram

Beyond the flora, the Enchanted Walk offers a chance to encounter Tasmania's unique wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for wombats, particularly during the quieter hours of dawn and dusk. Their presence adds an extra layer of enchantment to an already captivating journey. TikTok+1

Wildlife Encounters: Wombats and More

Cradle Mountain is a haven for wildlife, and the Enchanted Walk provides excellent opportunities for sightings, especially of the charming wombats. These sturdy marsupials are most active during the cooler parts of the day, making dawn and dusk the prime times to spot them grazing or waddling near their burrows. TikTok

While wombats are a major draw, keep an eye out for other native Tasmanian creatures. Birdlife is abundant, and if you're lucky, you might spot wallabies or echidnas. The key to successful wildlife viewing is patience and quiet observation. Avoid loud noises and sudden movements to increase your chances of a memorable encounter. TikTok

Remember that these are wild animals, and it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance. Do not feed them, and always follow park guidelines to ensure their safety and well-being. Capturing photos is encouraged, but prioritize the animals' comfort and natural behavior. TikTok

Navigating Cradle Mountain: Shuttles and Parking

Accessing Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, including the trailhead for the Enchanted Walk, is managed to preserve its natural beauty and reduce congestion. From 8 AM onwards, private vehicle access to the core park area is restricted. This means most visitors will rely on the shuttle bus service that operates from the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. Reddit

The shuttle is an efficient way to reach popular trailheads like the one for the Enchanted Walk. It runs frequently, allowing you to hop on and off at various points of interest. While parking is available at the Visitor Centre, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Therefore, planning to use the shuttle is a wise strategy for a smoother visit. Reddit

For those arriving from further afield, consider organized tours from cities like Launceston. These tours often include transportation and guided experiences, taking the hassle out of self-driving and parking logistics. Reddit