Dove Lake Circuit

The Dove Lake Circuit is about 6 km long and takes 2–3 hours. Most of the track is boardwalk or well-formed path, with some steps and short climbs. It starts and ends at the Dove Lake car park and shuttle stop.

Highlights

• The boatshed — the photogenic 1940s boatshed with Cradle Mountain behind.
• Glacier Rock — a viewpoint over the lake.
• Ballroom Forest — a mossy, ancient rainforest of myrtle beech beneath the mountain.

Which direction?

Walking clockwise gives views of Cradle Mountain ahead for much of the walk.

Tips

• Start early for calmer water and reflections.
• Carry rain gear even on sunny days.
• Stay on the track to protect fragile alpine vegetation.

Timing and crowds

The circuit is busiest from mid-morning to mid-afternoon, especially in summer when tour groups arrive. The first shuttles of the day and the late afternoon are quieter, and still water early in the morning gives the best reflections of the mountain.

What to carry

• Waterproof jacket and warm layer — conditions change in minutes.
• Water and snacks; there are no shops on the track.
• Sturdy shoes; some sections are rocky or wet.
• Camera — the boatshed is just a few minutes from the car park if you walk anticlockwise.

Accessibility

The track has steps and uneven sections, so it is not wheelchair accessible. Shorter accessible walks are available near the visitor centre.

Related guides

• More Cradle walks
• Shuttle bus to Dove Lake