It is recommended that all visitors undertaking the Overland Track purchase the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair map and notes (1:100 000 TASMAP) before you depart.
Shuttle bus
The shuttle bus leaves from the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre and operates seven days a week. A valid Parks Pass is required along with a ticket for the shuttle bus which can be organised at the Visitor Centre.
The shuttle bus service is included as part of the Cradle Mountain Day Icon pass and as part of the Overland Track booking fee.
The shuttle bus departs from the Visitor Centre stopping at the Ranger Station / Interpretation Centre, then Snake Hill, then Ronny Creek, and finally Dove Lake. The journey one-way (from the Visitor Centre to Dove Lake) is approximately 20 minutes.
Shuttle bus times are seasonal and subject to change. Road conditions can be affected by weather, which can affect operations times. Confirm with the Visitor Centre prior to arrival.
Visit our Cradle Mountain Shuttle Bus Information webapge for more information about the shuttle bus route and times.
Private vehicle access
Limited private vehicle access and parking for Dove Lake is available outside shuttle bus operating hours. This includes nine private vehicle parking spaces and one disability parking space.
Campervans, motorhomes, caravans, trailers and similar vehicles are not permitted on Dove Lake Road at any time. Visitors with these types of vehicle will be required to park at the Visitor Centre to use the shuttle bus service to access the park.
Private vehicle access is not permitted into the National Park during shuttle bus operating times.
For more information, see our Frequently Asked Questions:
Dove Lake Shelter Frequently Asked Questions (PDF 199Kb)
Overland Track Transport
Organising transport to and from the Overland Track requires forward planning. Explore your transport options before you book your walk. Most walkers plan a spare day for transport / logistics either side of their departure date.
Bus
Transport to and from Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair visitor centres is available all year from Hobart, Launceston and Devonport. Check with the operators listed in
Plan your trip for chartered services.
Ferry at Lake St Clair
If you plan to finish your walk at Narcissus, and catch the ferry across Lake St Clair to the visitor centre at Cynthia Bay, you need to
book the ferry before you commence your Overland Track walk. The ferry is privately run. A fee applies.
Where possible, please avoid driving in our reserves at night. You are sharing the roads with our native wildlife, so take it slow and watch out for animals on the road.