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Extending for 76 kilometres from the northwest coast of Tasmania to the rugged landscapes of Cradle Mountain, the Penguin Cradle Trail remains one of the island state’s lesser-known walks. It takes in spectacular natural scenery, including Leven Canyon and Black Bluff, and can easily be combined with the Overland Track to create an unforgettable two-week adventure.
The Penguin Cradle Trail was originally laid out in the 1970s by the North West Walking Club and offers a quieter experience than its more famous counterparts. It’s a true wilderness adventure, with rushing rivers, picturesque waterfalls and a diverse array of flora and fauna to discover along the way.
From the coastal town of Penguin, the trail heads south to Hardstaff Creek and through the Dial Range Forest Reserve before crossing Gunns Plains and entering Leven Canyon. It ascends through the subalpine vegetation of Black Bluff (elevation 1,336 metres) where you’ll encounter sparkling lakes and magnificent views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks. From here, the trail continues into the northern part of Cradle Mountain National Park with its ancient conifers, wildflowers and waterfalls.
Access & Amenities
The Penguin Cradle Trail is for experienced walkers only, with some sections of the route obscured by fallen trees and bracken. It is unlike the Overland Track with its well-marked trails and regular signposts, meaning it may not be for everyone. Quiet campsites (some of which are very basic) are dotted along the route and you need to carry all equipment, food and supplies in and out with you.
Regular buses run from Devonport and Burnie to the town of Penguin where the trail starts or private transfers are available. From the southern end of the track (Cradle Mountain Lodge), you’ll find bus services to both Devonport and Queenstown or private transfers can be arranged to your destination of choice.
The Penguin Cradle Trail is ideally completed over 6 to 8 days, with the following itinerary suggested. Some hikers prefer to combine days 6 and 7 as there is minimal shelter available at Bare Mountain Camp. If you have an extra day to spare, you can add on a side trip to Reynolds Falls, which lies to the west of Cradle Mountain.
Day One: Penguin to Hardstaff Creek - 10km (3.5 hours)
Day Two: Hardstaff Creek to Wings Farm Park or Hobbs Bridge - 10km (5 hours)
Day Three: Wings Farm Park or Hobbs Bridge to Blackwood Camp - 17.5km (6.5 hours)
Day Four: Blackwood Camp to Loongana - 7km (7 hours)
Day Five: Loongana to Paddys Lake - 9km (4.5 hours)
Day Six: Paddys Lake to Bare Mountain Camp - 9km (4.5 hours)
Day Seven: Bare Mountain Camp to Fourways Camp - 11km (4 hours)
Day Eight: Fourways Camp to Cradle Mountain Lodge - 8km (3.5 hours)
Track Notes & Maps
The North West Walking Club has published a short guide and maps package for the Penguin Cradle Trail, which can be purchased online from Wildcare Tasmania. By purchasing it, you are directly supporting the maintenance of the trail by the Friends of Penguin Cradle Trail.