cradle mountain day tour from launceston

• ${sites[result.siteId]} ${result.title}
• Coach Charters
• School Coaches
• Tours & Cradle Mt. Transfers
• Travel Club
• Hiking Tours
• Public Transfer
• Experience Tours
• Terms and Conditions

2 Day Cradle Mountain Experience

Cra­dle Moun­tain, with its ancient rain­forests and alpine heaths, is part of the Tas­man­ian Wilder­ness World Her­itage Area and the the park is one of the state’s most spe­cial places, where ancient pines fringe glacial lakes and icy streams cas­cade down rugged mountains.

Depart Launce­s­ton and trav­el up into the moun­tains through gorges, rain for­est and but­ton grass plains to reach Cra­dle Moun­tain you have the oppor­tu­ni­ty to to vis­it Dove Lake with spec­tac­u­lar views of Cra­dle Moun­tain, explore his­toric Wald­heim Chalet and the ancient rain­forests and enjoy the cas­cad­ing water­falls and many short walks on offer along with a ful­ly guid­ed Night Spot­ting adventure. 

Tour oper­ates dai­ly dur­ing peak sea­son (Decem­ber — April) and Sun­day all year round.

Departs from Launce­s­ton and includes Day Tour, Trans­port and Park Pass only — Cra­dle Mt accom­mo­da­tion not included.

Please advise, from the fol­low­ing pick-up points, where you will meet our coach in Launce­s­ton Hotel Grand Chan­cel­lor Launce­s­ton / Best West­ern Plus Launce­s­ton / Tran­sit Cen­tre / Launce­s­ton Backpackers

Also not­ing your Cra­dle Moun­tain accom­mo­da­tion (own arrange­ment) Cra­dle Moun­tain Hotel/​Cra­dle Dis­cov­ery Park/​Cra­dle Moun­tain Wilder­ness Village/​Cra­dle Moun­tain Highlanders/​Pep­pers Lodge Cra­dle Mountain

Detailed Itinerary

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change without notice.

Day 1: Launceston to Cradle Moutain

• Depart Launceston at approx. 07:30 from our key pick up points and travel to Cradle Mountain National Park on McDermott’s fully guided day tour.
• Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Great Western Tiers and the remarkable murals at Sheffield depicting the history of the Cradle Valley on the way.
• On arrival at Cradle Mountain you have the opportunity to visit Dove Lake with spectacular views of Cradle Mountain, see beautiful rainforests at Waldheim Chalet and enjoy the cascading waterfalls of the National Park.
• Mid-afternoon you will be transferred to your accommodation, that you have booked prior to departure and have the opportunity to enjoy the unique wilderness surrounds.
• That evening you join the Night Spotting Dusk Tour, a night spotting adventure searching for the locals including wallabies, wombats, possums and maybe even a Tasmanian devil.

Day 1: Cradle Mountain to Launceston

• Enjoy a free morning at leisure to explore some of the easily accessible short walks on offer in and around the Cradle Mt Interpretation Centre or alternatively enjoy the hotel facilities which may include the Wilderness Gallery or a visit to the Alpine Day Spa.
• Mid-afternoon you will be picked up from your accommodation and join a fully guided tour travelling back to Launceston arriving at approximately 5.30pm

Tour Highlights

Online booking.

The easiest way to book is right here, right now. Please ensure you have read our terms and conditions before booking.

• October - March
• April and September (7pm)
• May - August (5.30pm)

There are no bookings available for this date range.

Traveller information

Key details.

• Return Transfers from Launceston
• Fully Guided Tour Cradle Mountain National Park Day 1
• Night Spotting Tour Day 1
• National Park Pass
• Transfers to and from your pre arranged accommodation at Cradle Mountain

Not Included

• Accommodation NOT included - Tours & Transport only
• $295.00 per person

Kate Abroad

How to get from Launceston to Cradle Mountain: Drive or Bus [2024]

Visiting Cradle Mountain is one of the top things on the list of most travellers to Tasmania , this guide has all the details of how to get to Cradle Mountain from Launceston, the second biggest city in Tasmania, whether you’re road-tripping or looking to book a bus.

Cradle Mountain was part of my 10 day Tasmania road trip and this scenic drive is a highlight of our time on the island. The stops along the way are a good mix of the best parts of Tasmania, Australia ‘s smallest state, with some art, some cute small towns and of course foodie hotspots.

Launceston is a pretty town and absolutely worth spending some time exploring. I’d recommend checking out Cataract Gorge and the waterfront area. 

If you are continuing on from Launceston have a look at my Launceston to Freycinet guide for another must-do Tasmanian road trip.

Driving from Launceston to Cradle Mountain

The drive from Launceston to Cradle Mountain is just under 150 km and takes approximately 2-2.5 hours, not including stops.

Google Maps will tell you it’s 2 hours flat but that doesn’t properly account for the windiness and narrowness of the roads. If you’re in a van it would be closer to three hours. 

The drive can be split into two parts, there’s the highway section and the country/mountain road section. Both sections are well-signposted so there’s no issue with getting lost even when you lose signal.

The highway section from Launceston to Elizabethtown is wide and well-maintained and can be covered fairly quickly (110km/hour speed limit).

The remaining section is a lot slower as it’s on country roads which are quite windy and narrow at points so you need to slow right down if there are cars passing. This is also the section where you are likely to encounter ice in the cooler months so should be approached with care.

The whole drive is scenic with the rolling countryside as far as Sheffield and mountain/alpine views after that. 

Safety tips for driving to Cradle Mountain

• Some of the locals like to push the speed limits so give them lots of space and allow overtaking where you can. 
• There is quite a long stretch from Sheffield to Cradle Mountain where there isn’t much of anything so hit the bathrooms and grab food and water as needed before that.
• Keep an eye on the forecast and if be prepared to adjust your plans if bad weather is expected.
• Check the Tasmania Police Alerts website for any road closures affecting your trip – these usually don’t show on Google Maps. 

Where to stop between Launceston and Cradle Mountain

Not far from Launceston, you’ll reach the small town of Deloraine which is a great rest and food stop on the drive from Launceston to Cradle Mountain.

Deloraine is on the banks of the Meander River in the lush Meander Valley and is full of quaint old pubs and bakeries that look like something out of another era.

We loved the enormous selection of treats at the town bakery which is freshly made in-house. A great way to fuel up for an afternoon of hiking in Cradle Mountain.  

Sheffield is known as the town of murals and there are many paintings to check out on your way through. It’s best to stop and go for a walk around as very few of the artworks are along the main road.

You can find a map of the murals and directions for a short self-guided walking tour on the  town council website .

Optional Detour: Devonport

If you’ve left Launceston super early in the morning or don’t have any plans for when you arrive at Cradle Mountain, you could follow Highway 1 all the way to Devonport before turning south again to get to Cradle Mountain.

Devonport is Tasmania’s third biggest city and where the ferry from Melbourne arrives. It has a couple of attractions including the Spirit of the Sea Sculpture, bass Strait Museum and Mersey Bluff Lighthouse.

Even if you don’t go all the way to Devonport, it’s absolutely worth making a stop at Latrobe to visit the famous House of Anvers chocolate shop which makes the best truffles and fudge.

Where to eat and drink along the way to Cradle Mountain from Launceston

Breweries and distilleries.

Tasmania is well-known for its alcoholic beverages of all kinds but the area between Cradle Mountain and Launceston contains several ciderworks and distilleries worth visiting.

Red Brick Road Ciderworks in Deloraine produces beers, ciders and perries with the apples that give Tasmania its nickname (The Apple Isle). 

Western Tiers Distillery, just out of Launceston, is also a great stop for non-driving travellers. Named for the mountain range which Cradle Mountain sits in, the distillery offers tours and tastings of their house-made whisky, gin and vodka.

Hazelbrae Hazelnut Farm

I didn’t even know hazelnuts were farmed until we came across this place on the way to Cradle Mountain.

At Hazelbrae they grow and pick nuts for sale and have a beautiful property where you can stay for a picnic lunch or do a tasting of different hazelnut products.

Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm

There’s not much better than a berry farm in summer and Tasmania has many to offer. On the drive between Launceston and Cradle Mountain, you’ll pass Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm just out of Elizabeth town.

The farm has a full café with dishes incorporating raspberries in creative ways as well as a shop selling berries and berry-related products.

Van Diemans Land Creamery

Anecdotally, this is the best ice cream in Tasmania and if you’re visiting on a hot day or doing a family road trip from Launceston to Cradle Mountain this is a great place to stop for a sweet treat.

Getting to Cradle Mountain from Launceston without a car 

If renting a car doesn’t suit you or isn’t an option for you, you can still get to Cradle Mountain from Launceston by bus. There are no public buses (public transport in Tasmania is very limited) but several companies run bus tours or private transfers up to Cradle Mountain. 

McDermotts Coaches are the biggest operator and have both guided bus tours of Cradle Mountain (day and overnight alternatives departing Launceston) and shuttles, for if you prefer to do your own thing when you get there.

McDermott’s only runs one service each way per day or one every other day in winter. Prices start at $80pp

The other option is Overland Track Transport which operates a shuttle service for hikers on the Overland Track which starts at Cradle Mountain.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Overland Track Transport doesn’t offer a return service to Launceston and only operates in high season (October to April).

Best day tours to Cradle Mountain from Launceston

If you’re pushed for time, a day tour to cradle mountain is a great option as you don’t have to worry about organising your own transport and get taken straight to the highlights. It can also work out cheaper than return bus transfers. 

The Cradle Mountain National Park Day Tour from Launceston is the best option because it includes some stop-offs on the way to the mountain so you can check out the art in Sheffield, Tasmania’s town of murals, and taste the artisan cheese at Ashgrove Cheese Farm. You also get taken right to Dove Lake to get those Instagram shots.

Where to stay at Cradle Mountain

Camping/Budget – Discovery Holiday Park is a well-equipped campsite close to the visitor’s centre. As well as powered and unpowered sites they have cabins for anyone looking for a budget option without a tent or campervan.

Mid-range – Cradle Mountain Hotel is incredible bang for your buck. It’s a 4-star hotel with all the amenities but if you book ahead, you can get a very affordable mid-range rate.

Luxury – Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge is all about the views with a spectacular outlook over the bush from the dining room and cabins. The huge fireplace and many local drink offerings give you a cosy place to recover from hikes in the mountains .

Cradle Mountain is on every Tasmania traveller’s bucket list and the drive getting there is a great leadup as you head from the low-lying Tamar Valley surrounding Launceston and climb towards Cradle Mountain.

Happy travelling!

Australia Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find awesome day tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
• Save on Sydney attractions with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your Australian dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

Similar Posts

3 Days In Melbourne Itinerary for 2024

Wondering what to do with 3 days in Melbourne Australia? No worries, this Melbourne 3 day itinerary has you sorted with the best attractions and activities to fill your time….

18 Best Places To Visit In Queensland Australia in 2024

Seeking out the best places to visit in Queensland? This article has 18 of the top Queensland holiday destinations. At a massive 1,852,642 square kilometres, Queensland is Australia’s second state…

15 Best Things to Do in the Huon Valley in 2024

Looking for things to do in the Huon Valley? This guide has you sorted with 13 attractions, activities and events and something for everyone.  The Huon Valley, just south of…

Where to Stay at Cradle Mountain: Best Hotels and Areas 2024

Cradle Mountain is one of the most naturally beautiful locations in Australia and a must-visit on any trip to Tasmania. To make your vacation planning easier, this guide will help…

4 Days in Cairns Itinerary + Travel Guide 2024

Visiting Cairns in far north Queensland is a highlight of travelling in Australia. With 4 days in Cairns, you’ll see the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in…

Ultimate Cradle Mountain Day Trip Itinerary + Guide for 2024

A day trip to Cradle Mountain is a must-do for many Tasmania travellers. The UNESCO World Heritage Area is stunningly scenic and one of the island’s top 3 attractions (the…

Launceston Tours

Tour around Tasmania’s Launceston region with these organised tours and experiences

The second major city in Tasmania, Launceston is a mecca for locally produced, grown and brewed food and wine. Boasting a unique kind of charm Launceston is filled with Colonial and Victorian architecture that gives the town that old time feel and giving it the status as one of Australia’s oldest cities. Launceston is also the gateway to the aromatic Tamar Valley region, if you follow the Tamar River north you will reach Tasmania’s premium wine-growing region. From here you can enjoy various food and wine tours to appreciate the best produce from the region including chocolate, cheese, beer, cider and wine.

Additionally, Launceston is relatively close to the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park ad as a result there are various organised tours that will take you there and around with return transfers back to your accommodation. Launceston is a great launch pad with which to explore the greater Northern Tasmania region including Cradle Mountain and Tamar Valley. Browse the available tours and experiences below to begin planning your adventure in this gorgeous part of Australia.

Scenic Tours

Cradle Mountain Day Tour from Launceston

One of Tasmania’s most recognisable and visually appealing sights, Cradle Mountain National Park is a must-see sight. As you stroll along the Enchanted Forest Walk, look up to the powerful Cradle Mountain and look across the picturesque Dove Lake, you’ll gain a new appreciation of the Australian outdoors. Be sure to have your camera at the ready as there are incredible photo opportunities at every turn during this tour. Tours are conducted four days a week – Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday – and run for approximately 8.5 hours with an 8:30am departure and 5pm return.

Child $84 / Concession $163 / Adult $168

Food and Wine Experience

Departing Devonport, Ulverstone, Burnie and Launceston this food and wine tour is a must for foodies and wine lovers visiting the region. The tour leaves around 9am and returning at 5pm, you’ll follow the North West Coast Food Trail and visit the Deloraine and Mole Creek Region as well well as the Tamar Launceston Area. The tour will take you to a selection of vineyards, chocolate factories, breweries, distilleries and more. A minimum of two people is required for this tour to operate.

$160 pp without lunch / $195 pp with lunch

Cradle Mountain Day Tour

On this great value day tour you’ll visit Tasmania‘s beautiful Cradle Mountain and spend the day exploring its surrounding beauty. From strolling around Dove Lake, to visiting the unique Town of Murals and Sheffield this is a great way to admire the beauty of the popular region. This tour includes pick up from local accommodation as well as morning tea, lunch and park entry fees.

$150 per person

Tamar Valley Food & Wine Tour

This tour takes you within the pristine Tamar Valley region of Tasmania to the Tamar River, which flows in from the waters of Bass Strait all the way to the city of Launceston. The region is a vibrant valley full of fertile farmland, natural forests, orchards, and numerous vineyards along it’s banks. Referred to as the Tamar Valley, it’s Australia’s largest tidal river. Dotted along its banks are towns and many natural attractions throughout the Valley. This tour will take you along the ‘Wine Route’ where you will sample and enjoy cheeses, berries and of course wines.

Cataract Gorge Cruise

Cruise along the Old Launceston Seaport and Kings Wharf to see some of the regions historic vessels and beautiful riverfront precinct. Aboard the Lady Launceston – an award winning 1890’s style vessel – you’ll journey along the spectacular Cataract Gorge to see the incredible cliffs and cascades along the gorge from your comfortable seat on the boat. To accompany the beautiful views, you’ll be treated to captivating commentary from the on board skippers about the region’s rich history.

Child $12 / Concession $25 / Adult $29

Afternoon Discovery Cruise

Cruising through Cataract Gorge and along Launceston’s riverfront precinct, you’ll head north towards Tamar Island for beautiful views of riverfront communities, vineyards and local farms in the historic Rosevears and Windermere districts. Home to historic buildings such as the St. Mathias Church and Rosevears Tavern, this cruise encompasses the best of the region while providing spectacular views. The fascinating collection of history, fauna and people at work, rest and play makes an absorbing narrative which will touch, intrigue and inspire. The best vantage point to view the Tamar Valley.

Child $35 / Concession $69 / Adult $79

Batman Bridge Luncheon Cruise

Sample the rich diversity of life as we cruise past quaint riverfront communities, vineyards and farms to the notable Batman Bridge. The Tamar Valley is steeped with romance and studded with bushrangers, explorers and tales of gold diggers. Australia’s longest navigable estuarine river has many natural coves and protected inlets which provide sanctuary for thousands of native water birds that can only be seen on the river.

Child $60 / Concession $110 / Adult $125

Adventure tours.

Beginner Lost World Canyon Tour

This canyoning tour of Cradle Mountain is designed as a starting point for beginners who are looking to take the first steps into the world of canyoning. You’ll visit the Lost World Canyon, a location which allows beginners and those who want a relaxing escape to experience the beauty of the upper section of Tasmania’s Dove River. This trip is the ideal choice for beginners, families and those who are simply out for a fun yet relaxing adventure through some of Tasmania’s most striking natural scenery. The trip is also ideal for school groups to give students their own personal introduction to the experience of canyoning! We provide all the specialised gear you need to wear throughout the trip.

Child (8-14 yrs) $90 / Concession $100 / Adult $110

Advanced Dove Canyon Tour

Those already experienced in the adventure activity of canyoning can join this great tour of Dove Canyon within Cradle Mountain National Park outside Launceston to push themselves to the limit while getting some great exploration opportunities along the way! Aiming to showcase “wild Tasmania” at its best with a thrilling combination of slides, jumps and abseils, this will definitely be an experience to write home about. We encourage both the intrepid and adventurous to join us; you do not need any previous experience just be physically fit, have the ability to swim, and bring your sense of adventure! All specialised gear is also provided so you won’t need to transport equipment yourself; just come along and enjoy the thrill.

Concession $195 / Adult $220

Bay of Fires 4 Day Trek

Tasmania’s famed Bay of Fires is one of the most beautiful stretches of coast and wilderness in the state and on this epic 4 day guided walking adventure you’ll encounter the best of its many offerings firsthand. The sheer variety of scenery on offer is impressive, ranging from breathtaking beaches full of golden sands and pristine blue waters, ruggedly beautiful rock formations, famously crystal-clear skies and lush greenery typical of Tasmania. This incredibly comprehensive journey is one of Tasmania’s true must-do’s; so don’t hesitate to book your Bay of Fires walk online today!

$2150 per person – twin share

Hollybank Treetops Adventure

Just a short drive from Launceston lies Hollybank and this is one of the best and most adventurous ways to explore it. The Hollybank Treetops Adventure offers visitors a unique and exciting adventure that is suitable for children as young as 3 years old. There are both daytime and twilight adventures available, the tours operate daily and run for around 3 hours. This is a fun and safe way to sightsee in the region this adventure will take you on a high wire ride through the canopy of the forest high above the forest floor.

$125 per person

Miscellaneous tours.

Tasmania Flexi Attraction Pass

If you’d like to take your time and sample the best of Tasmania the Tasmania Flexi Attractions Pass is ideal. You get 3, 5 or 7 tickets to attraction experiences and you still have a whole 3 months from purchase to use your pass. There are over 20 attractions and experiences to choose from to ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Child from $69 / Adult from $109

Australia Multi City Attraction Pass

From zoos to aquariums, historical attractions to sightseeing adventures, explore the best that Australia has to offer with a Multi City Attractions Pass. Choose from over 70 attractions and things to do, see more and SAVE UP TO 50% off admission to many of the best things to do in Australia. The tickets includes your choice of entry to the top attractions around Tasmania.

Child from $135 / Adult from $180

Seahorse World Guided Tour

A trip to SeaHorse World will lead you on a journey to our unique facility that will provide you with an excellent experience with the aim of balancing both entertainment and education for a great day out. We give you a “behind the scenes” look at the world’s first working seahorse farm as well as hands-on opportunities in the touch pool. Great for families with kids of all ages, this is a personalised, friendly and informative experience to get up-close to one of of the aquatic world’s true living treasures.

Child $9 / Concession $19 / Adult $22

Book a cradle mountain tour today.

To book your journey to the stunning Cradle Coast region, book online or give our consultants a call on 1300 935 532.

Cradle Mountain World Heritage Day Tour from Launceston

Experience a taste of Tasmania's natural beauty and wildlife on this premier day tour departing Launceston

Cradle Mountain World Heritage Day Tour from Launceston Highlights

Get up to 10% cash back per person when you book with us

Guided Tour of Cradle Mountain

Hike the Enchanted Walk + Dove Lake Circuit Walk + Marion’s Lookout

Visit Sheffield , the ‘ Town of Murals ’ 

National park  entrance fees  

Professionally guided and interpreted walks

Return transfers from select accommodation

Where you'll visit:

Cradle Mountain World Heritage Area

Dove Lake Circuit Walk (easy grade 6km's) or Marion’s Lookout (medium grade )

Guided walks & interpretation

Sheffield – historic ‘Town of Murals’

Van Dieman's Land Ice Creamery

Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm

What's Excluded

• Meals are not included

What to Expect

Cradle Mountain National Park is an area of iconic scenery with a wide variety of walking trails to choose from. With around 5 hours to spend in the National Park,  the walking itinerary is flexible to suit guests and the weather conditions...

Frequently Asked Questions about Cradle Mountain World Heritage Day Tour from Launceston Expand all

What do I bring?

 Day pack

Water bottle

Sun hat and sunscreen

Warm, weatherproof jacket

Good walking shoes or boots

Appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.

(Please note that Tasmanian weather can famously change very quickly so we highly recommend bringing along a few warmer layers even on a summer day!)

What are the weather conditions like in Tasmania?

The weather in Tasmania is famously varied, with four distinct seasons (sometimes all occurring in one day!)

The east coast is the dry, sunny, warm side of the island. Annual rainfall in the east is 600mm – less than half the annual rainfall in Sydney. Daily maximum temperatures in summer (December to February) are between +20 to +30 degrees celsius. In winter (June to August) daily maximums are between +12 to +18 degrees celsius.

The west coast is mountains, rainforest and untouched wilderness. Annual rainfall in the west is 2000mm, helping to create the stunning wilderness of Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair & Mount Field National Parks. Daily maximum temperatures in summer are between +18 to +25 degrees celsius. In winter the mountains look spectacular with snow on top and daily maximums are between +5 to +15 degrees celsius.

If you want to check out the weather forecast before travel head to  www.weatherzone.com.au  and put the destination into the search facility and it can show you the 7 day forecast ahead clearly.

When is it not suitable to bring luggage on board?

It is expected that each traveller will have a day pack  only to store your daily essentials such as drinks, snacks, warm jacket etc. while on tour for the day.  No other luggage is able to be carried on day tours.  If you are moving hotels or have onwards travels you will need to ensure this is stored for the day at your hotel/accommodation prior to boarding the tour bus. 

Reviews for Cradle Mountain World Heritage Day Tour from Launceston

Total review count and overall rating based on Backpackerdeals and Travello reviews.

All Reviews

The tour was excellent. We warmed up with a small tour down waterfalls. Lovely weather. Then we took many pictures in front of dove lake and on the mountain. Great experience.

Cradle mountain is a beautiful spot to visit and I’m so glad i got to go there. The tour itself was well planned and the tour guide knowledgeable and accommodating. I highly recommend this tour.

We had the best day here. Loved every minute. Highly recommend

Great day out! Amazing for all ages! Well worth the money.

Excellent day trip from Launceston. Our guide Grahame was fantastic. He was a world of knowledge and was a great tour guide. Would highly recommend this tour company .

Graeme was great, knows the history and places, the specifics and people. Had a great time! Thx

 Child price applies 8-15 years. Children under 8 years of age are not permitted to travel.

The Operator reserves the right to cancel or change tours without notice

The Operator shall not be held liable for any accident, injury, delay, loss or damage...

If you wish to cancel your tour booking, you must email the tour operator to advise of your cancellation request, or if you wish to reschedule.

More than 48 hours prior to tour departure – full refund of tour fee

48 hours...

All customer cancellation & refund requests are also subject to our website’s own  refund conditions .

Pickup Locations

• Arthouse Hostel
• Best Western Plus Launceston
• Commodore Regent
• Elphin Motel & Serviced Apartments
• Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston