The Enchanted Walk in Cradle Mountain is one of the most popular short walks in Tasmania. With views of buttongrass moorland, a forest boardwalk and resident wombats and wallabies, it really does feel like you’re stepping into a fairytale.
The walk is quick and easy, making it an ideal activity to pair with the rest of your Cradle Mountain itinerary. But, is it the best short walk in the area? I’ve answered that question, and a whole lot more, in this guide to the Enchanted Forest Walk, Cradle Mountain.
Enchanted Walk Details and Map
- Time: 20 minutes
- Length: 1.1km circuit track
- Trail difficulty: Easy
- Starting point: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge
What to expect
The Enchanted Walk lies within the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. If it’s nature and wildlife you’re looking for, you won’t be disappointed!
Pepper Cradle Mountain Lodge marks the start of the Enchanted Walk trail. As you drive onto the property, you’ll notice a small bridge crossing Pencil Pine Creek. Park your car nearby and head to this bridge.
From here, you’ll follow the boardwalk track for 20 minutes, meandering through a magical, mossy forest. Most of the route follows a slow-flowing river with a picturesque waterfall at the halfway point.
Wildlife on the Enchanted Walk, Cradle Mountain
If you’re in search of wombats, this is one of the most popular places to see them, especially at dusk. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as lucky as most people!
While I found scores of burrows, I didn’t actually see any wombats on the Enchanted Walk. However, I managed to spot one as I was driving out of the park, so don’t be too disappointed if they’re not out and about when you expect them to be.
Wallabies are also a common sighting and we saw a lot of these guys along the trail.
Is it the best short walk in Cradle Mountain
If you have children, yes.
If you don’t have children, no.
Your kids will love the Enchanted Walk. The trail is even and flat and it’s short enough so they won’t be whinging and whining about the distance. There’s also a variety of natural attractions throughout the walk and it resembles a secret garden.
But, it is a popular walk so its charm can be overshadowed by the crowds!
I was more impressed with the King Billy trail which also starts at Peppers Cradle Mountain. While it’s a slightly longer and steeper route, it’s a hidden gem and my favourite short walk in Cradle Mountain.
How to get to the start of the Enchanted Walk
To get to Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, you’ll need to purchase a National Parks pass at the visitors centre. From here, take the free shuttle to the Rangers Station (first stop) which is a short walk from Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.
Alternatively, you can drive into the national park as there is sufficient parking at the lodge.
Have you heard of the Enchanted Walk? Or are you looking for the best walks in Cradle Mountain? If you have any questions, drop me a message below!
Visiting Tasmania? Check out these other awesome hikes near Cradle Mountain!
- Hiking Hansons Peak in Cradle Mountain: A Detailed Guide on What to Expect
- The King Billy Walk: Why This is The Best Short Walk in Cradle Mountain
- Luxury Accommodation in Cradle Mountain: Remote Getaways, Rustic Cabins and More
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