Crater Falls, Tasmania - A Waterfall Adventure in Cradle Mountain National Park

Nov 15, 2021
3 min read

Updated: Jan 28

Crater Falls ~ Cradle Mountain, Tasmania.

Crater Falls, Tasmania - A Waterfall Adventure in Cradle Mountain National Park

Hidden within the ancient rainforest of Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, Crater Falls is a beautiful series of cascading waterfalls that tumble through a steep, fern-filled gully. Surrounded by cool temperate rainforest and fragrant myrtle beech, this walk offers a wonderful contrast between open alpine landscapes and lush forest scenery.

The falls cascade over broken rock ledges, changing direction as they flow, before collecting in crystal-clear pools below. It’s a rewarding walk for visitors wanting to explore a quieter corner of Cradle Mountain beyond the more famous highlights.

The Walk to Crater Falls

The walk to Crater Falls begins at Ronny Creek, one of the most popular trailheads in Cradle Mountain National Park. From Ronny Creek, follow the boardwalk through open buttongrass moorland, a landscape that feels vast and wild, with sweeping views toward Cradle Mountain. Continue along the track until you cross a bridge over Ronny Creek. ⚠️ Do not take the path toward Waldheim at this point.

Immediately after the bridge, keep right on the main track. The left-hand path leads to Lake Lilla Track and Wombat Pool, but the right-hand trail is the route to Crater Falls.

Climbing Through the Rainforest

After the junction, the track becomes steeper, climbing steadily uphill for approximately 1.5 kilometres as it enters dense rainforest. Towering trees, moss-covered trunks, and thick undergrowth surround the path, and the air often carries the earthy scent of myrtle and damp forest floor. Continue past the turn-off to the Horse Track, and after around 400 metres, you’ll reach a wooden viewing platform overlooking the lower section of Crater Falls.

Crater Falls Viewing Platforms

From the main viewing platform, you’ll have a great view of the lower cascades of Crater Falls as water spills over the rock face into the gully below. A short set of stairs beneath the platform allows access closer to the base of the falls.

If you’d like to see more, continue climbing the wooden steps, which lead to additional cascades higher up the falls. Each section reveals a slightly different perspective, with water weaving its way through the rocky cliff and forest backdrop.

Extend Your Walk or Return the Same Way

Many visitors choose to return the same way after reaching the viewing platforms, retracing their steps back to Ronny Creek. For more experienced walkers, the climb can be continued as part of the Crater Lake Circuit, which leads deeper into the alpine landscape above the falls.

Why Visit Crater Falls?

Crater Falls offers a quieter, more immersive rainforest experience at Cradle Mountain. With its layered cascades, rich forest scenery, and sense of adventure, it’s a wonderful option for visitors wanting to explore beyond the park’s most popular short walks.

Directions to Crater Falls at Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park is located in central Tasmania and is accessible from both Hobart and Launceston.

The northern entrance is via Sheffield, approximately 1.5 hours from Launceston
Park at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre
With a valid National Park Pass, purchase a shuttle bus ticket
Take the shuttle bus to Ronny Creek to begin the walk