Dove Lake

Dove Lake which includes a lake or waterhole and tranquil scenes
Cradle Mountain which includes tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole as well as an individual male
Dove Lake which includes tranquil scenes, a lake or waterhole and a sandy beach
Dove Lake
Dove Lake showing tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole


Marvel at the towering spires of Cradle Mountain as you walk along a boardwalk that skirts the pristine waters of this glacially carved lake.

Dove Lake is one of Tasmania’s best-known natural attractions, its breathtaking scenery drawing visitors from around the world. Snap photographs of the mirror-like waters reflecting the rugged twin peaks of Cradle Mountain and circumnavigate the lake on a tranquil stroll. Walk beneath the ancient canopy of a cool temperate rainforest and see gleaming quartzite rock formations.

Dove Lake is encircled by a walking track and a collection of short trails that branch off to lookouts. Walk up to the shoreline of Dove Lake and take in the stunning views across its expanse. Most of the trail around the lake is a boardwalk and you can walk in either direction. On the northwestern shores, see the historic boatshed. Built in 1940 out of local King Billy pine, this now-vacant boatshed is a popular spot for photographers. Snap a picture of the solitary structure against a backdrop of Cradle Mountain and the surrounding wilderness.

Stop by the geological formation known as Glacier Rock and see if you can spot the evidence of the glacier that passed over the quartzite in the last Ice Age. To the southern end of the lake, find the Ballroom Forest, a breathtaking stand of ancient myrtle-beech trees covered in soft moss. Look for other plant species such as tussock grasses, snow gums and pencil pines. See if you can spot a wombat, pademelon or echidna rustling through the grasses. Have a picnic lunch on the wooden tables dotted around the lake.

The Dove Lake walking circuit is 5.7 kilometres (3.5 miles) one way and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. It is suitable for children. Those looking for a longer walk can opt to hike up Cradle Mountain. Be sure to pack plenty of water and warm, weather-appropriate clothes, as temperatures can drop suddenly. Parking and public toilets are available at Dove Lake. The lake is located within Cradle Mountain – Lake St. Clair National Park and park entry fees apply.

Popular places to visit


Top Dove Lake Hotel Deals

Cradle Mountain Hotel

Cradle Mountain Hotel

4 out of 5
3718 Cradle Mountain Road, Cradle Mountain, TAS
Cradle Mountain Hotel
Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

4.5 out of 5
4038 Cradle Mountain Road Tasm, Cradle Mountain, TAS
Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge
Discovery Parks - Cradle Mountain

Discovery Parks - Cradle Mountain

3 out of 5
Cradle Mountain Road, Cradle Mountain, TAS
Discovery Parks - Cradle Mountain
Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain

Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain

3.5 out of 5
Cradle Mountain Road Cradle Mountain, Tas 7306, Cradle Mountain, TAS
Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain
Cradle Highlander

Cradle Highlander

3.5 out of 5
3876 Cradle Mountain Road, Cradle Mountain, TAS
Cradle Highlander
Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat

Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat

4 out of 5
770 Dolcoath Rd Off Cradle Mountain Rd, Moina, TAS
Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat
Cradle Alpine Retreat

Cradle Alpine Retreat

3.5 out of 5
1429 Cradle Mountain Road, Moina, TAS
Cradle Alpine Retreat
Tullah Lakeside Lodge

Tullah Lakeside Lodge

3 out of 5
Cnr Meredith & Farrell St, Tullah, TAS
Tullah Lakeside Lodge
AAA Granary Accommodation

AAA Granary Accommodation

3.5 out of 5
575 Staverton Road, Promised Land, TAS
AAA Granary Accommodation
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.