Parks Passes

 A valid Parks Pass is required to enter all of Tasmania’s national parks, with the money raised used to upkeep visitor facilities and walking tracks. There are a variety of different options available, depending on how long you are visiting the state and how many people are travelling with you. 

 Daily Passes allow entry to Cradle Mountain for a 24-hour period and can be purchased from the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. This includes the use of the shuttle bus, which connects the Visitor Centre to Dove Lake. 

 Alternatively, you can opt for a Holiday Pass, which covers entry to all of Tasmania’s national parks for 2 months, plus use of the shuttle bus at Cradle Mountain. 

 If you are hiring a car, you need to purchase your own Parks Pass for the duration of your visit, even if there is an existing sticker on the car. Parks Passes are non-transferable and the vehicle must be registered at the pass holder’s address. 

 If you’re spending an extended amount of time in Tasmania, an annual or two-year Parks Pass may be the best option. Seniors Passes are also available for a discounted rate. 

 You can check current Parks Pass costs and concession rates on the Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service website. 

Cradle Mountain Shuttle Buses

 Due to the popularity of Cradle Mountain National Park and the lack of parking space at Dove Lake, a complimentary shuttle bus known as the “Cradle Discoverer” has been introduced. After parking your car at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, you can ride the bus to the start of several walking trails at the Interpretation Centre/Ranger Station, Snake Hill, Ronny Creek and Dove Lake. 

 These purpose-built, hybrid diesel-electric buses depart every 10 to 15 minutes in the summer months (1 October to 31 March) between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm. Departures are every 15 to 20 minutes in the winter months (1 April to 30 September) from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

Weather at Cradle Mountain

 Cradle Mountain is known for its highly changeable and unpredictable weather, so it’s important that you come prepared for all seasons, no matter what time of the year you are visiting. The warmest months are generally January and February when temperatures can rise to around 30 degrees Celsius before dropping to overnight lows of -10 degrees Celsius in July and August. Snow has been known to fall at any time of the year, with the heaviest coverage usually in July, August and September. 

 Before departing on any of Cradle Mountain’s walks, check the current weather forecast and trail conditions at the Visitor Centre. The rangers will be able to advise if the tracks are safe to hike and if there are current track closures.