The
Cradle Mountain Huts Walk is a perfect way to discover the beautiful, diverse landscapes of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain- Lake St Clair National Park, from rugged mountains to glassy lakes. Accompanied by experienced guides, find out for yourself why this is one of Australia’s most iconic walks. There’s no stinting on creature comforts either: along the way, you and your group will have exclusive use of comfortable huts, ensuring a good night’s rest before you continue the walk the next day, and you can refuel with delicious afternoon teas, evening meals and wines.
Day 1
Waldheim to Barn Bluff Hut (12km; 7 hours)
After meeting at the Quamby Estate, you’ll have introductions and a gear check before setting off for your start point, Waldheim in Cradle Valley. You’ll begin by walking through ancient temperate rainforests and around the glacier-carved Crater Lake. This is the steepest section of the whole track, so you’ll get the most difficult bit out of the way early on! From Marion’s Lookout, you’ll be rewarded with views of Cradle Mountain, dropping down to Dove Lake. Throughout the day, there will be more fantastic views over exposed alpine plateaus, especially in clear weather. After lunch by Plateau Creek, you’ll continue for about 4 hours around the base of Cradle Mountain, circumnavigating glacial crevasses and crossing Waterfall Valley before reaching your hut for the night, at the base of Barn Bluff.
Day 2
Barn Bluff Hut to Pine Forest Moor Hut (12km; 6 hours)
After breakfast, you’ll continue the trail over exposed moorland, including a raised walkway through Pine Forest Moor and a side trip to the beautiful Lake Will. Travel across ancient plains that were once covered by glaciers, where you’ll now see shallow tarns, with pine trees poking up from the water. The peaks of Cradle Mountain and Barn Bluff will be behind you, with the majestic Mt Pelion West ahead.
Day 3
Pine Forest Moor Hut to Pelion Plains Hut (10km; 5 hours)
Today you’ll descend around the base of Mt Pelion West, down to the Forth River. After a break at the riverside Frog Flats, you’ll have a gentle ascent out of the valley onto the spectacular Pelion Plains, with beautiful views of Mt Oakleigh. Options for side trips in this area include visiting swimming holes and abandoned copper mines, or simply finding a spot around the mountains for a peaceful time out.
Day 4
Pelion Plains Hut to Arm River Valley (14km; 6 hours)
The final day of your trek begins by crossing Pelion Plains and following the south shore of Lake Ayr, traversing landscapes of eucalypt forests and button grass plains, onto the Innes Track. After lunch near Wurragarra Creek, admire the mountain views as you make your way past the calm waters of Lake Price. The walk will conclude with a descent into the Arm River Valley.