If you’ve Googled the Dove Lake Circuit, you’ve probably seen the photos – crystal-clear water, dramatic mountain backdrop, and that ridiculously photogenic little boat shed.
But is it actually worth doing… or just one of those places that looks better on Instagram?
We walked the full 6km circuit with a two-year-old and a four-year-old (plus snow, snacks and a few negotiations along the way), and here’s what it’s really like.
Dove Lake Circuit at a glance:
- Distance: 6km loop
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (Grade 3)
- Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
- Best direction: Clockwise
- Family-friendly: Yes (with supervision)
In this guide:
Is the Dove Lake Circuit worth it?
Absolutely – and even if you’re not usually a “hiking family,” this one is still worth doing. Why? Because you get a lot of reward for relatively little effort.
You’re not climbing a mountain or grinding through hours of bush track. Instead, you’re walking a well-maintained loop that serves up:
- Lake views almost the entire way
- Close-up perspectives of Cradle Mountain
- Boardwalk sections that make it easier with kids
- A mix of landscapes that stops it from feeling repetitive
If you only do one walk in this part of Tasmania, this is a very strong contender.
What to expect on the Dove Lake Circuit
Glacier Rock lookout
About 10 minutes into the walk, you’ll reach Glacier Rock (your first proper “wow” moment).
It’s a short detour, but worth it for the serene views over Dove Lake and towards Cradle Mountain. It’s also a good early reminder that this walk is more than just a casual lakeside stroll.
If you’ve got younger kids, this is one of the spots to keep them within arm’s reach, especially if they’re the adventurous type.
Walking beneath Cradle Mountain
As you continue around the far side of the lake, the track opens up, and you’ll find yourself walking beneath the towering peaks of Cradle Mountain.
Even on a grey, drizzly day (which it was when we did the walk), the atmosphere is incredible. Low clouds rolling over the peaks actually add to the drama rather than take away from it.
It’s one of those landscapes that feels a bit wild and untamed in the best possible way.
The Ballroom Forest
Just when you think you’ve got the landscape figured out, it changes completely.
The Ballroom Forest is a dense, moss-covered section of rainforest that feels like stepping into another world. The boardwalk winds through twisted trees, thick greenery and a small creek, and you temporarily lose sight of the lake.
For kids, this section is gold. It breaks up the walk and gives them something different to focus on.
The stairs (the “character-building” section)
Up until now, the track is mostly flat and very manageable. Then come the stairs.
They’re not overly long, but they are the steepest and most challenging part of the circuit. If you’re carrying a toddler (or a backpack full of snacks and spare clothes), you’ll definitely feel it here.
The good news? Once you’re past this short section, the rest of the walk feels easy again.
The iconic Dove Lake boat shed
Towards the end of the circuit, you’ll spot the famous Dove Lake boat shed.
This is one of Tasmania’s most photographed spots, and once you see it, you’ll understand why. Clear water, mountain backdrop, and a perfectly placed rustic shed. It’s almost unfair how photogenic it is.
Expect to stop here longer than planned.
Doing the Dove Lake Circuit with kids
We tackled this walk with a two-year-old and a four-year-old, which meant it wasn’t exactly a fast-paced hike… but it was absolutely doable.
A few real-world tips from our experience:
- Bring more snacks than you think you need
- A carrier is essential for younger kids
- Let them walk when they want – don’t rush it
- Plan for extra time (we took about 3.5 hours)
The boardwalk sections make a big difference, and there are plenty of natural stopping points along the way.
When we visited, there was still snow on the track, which turned the walk into a bit of an adventure. Snowballs, slipping around, and general chaos. But the fun kind.
Wildlife spotting
Keep your eyes open, this area is full of wildlife.
You might spot:
- Bennett’s wallaby
- Pademelon
- Wombat
- Short-beaked echidna
We saw a few along the way and even more from the shuttle bus. This is always a highlight for both kids and adults.
Getting to Dove Lake
The walk starts at Dove Lake, within Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
Most of the year, you can’t drive directly there. Instead, you’ll park at the visitor centre and hop on the shuttle bus, which runs regularly and is included in your park pass.
The shuttle ride itself is part of the experience. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way.
Accommodation near Dove Lake
If you can, stay close. It makes a big difference, especially if you want an early start.
Some great nearby options include:
- Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge
- Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain
- Cradle Mountain Hotel
- Cradle Highlander
We stayed further out and did a 90-minute drive each way. Doable, but not ideal with kids.
National park fees
You’ll need a park pass to enter Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
If you’re planning to explore more of Tasmania, the multi-day pass is usually better value and saves you thinking about it again.
Tips before you go
- Dress in layers as the weather changes quickly
- Wear proper shoes (even with boardwalks)
- Start early to beat the crowds
- Bring snacks and water
- Allow more time than you think, especially with kids
If you’re keen on other walks you can do in Tasmania with kids, read our article on 7 Great Walks in Tasmania with Kids.
FAQ
Most people complete it in 2-3 hours, but allow extra time if you’re walking with kids or stopping for photos.
It’s rated Grade 3 (easy to moderate). There’s one short steep section (stairs), but the rest is very manageable.
Yes – it’s one of the more family-friendly walks in the area. A carrier is recommended for younger children.
Clockwise is recommended and feels like the most natural flow.
Where to next:
Let me know what you think!