The climb up to Hanson's Peak is quite steep but not very long, Hanson's Peak Bushwalk at Cradle Mountain is a reasonably easy 3 - 3.5-hour return walk, but remember weather in the area can be extremely changeable so be prepared for all conditions, and take care with small children. For many visitors to Cradle Mountain, the highlight of their trip is the view across Dove Lake to Cradle Mountain, one of Tasmania's best-known tourism icons. Cradle Mountain is a jagged dolerite peak; its name derived from the mountain's resemblance to a miner's cradle. Magnificent Cradle Mountain can be seen either on foot as you walk along the shores of Dove Lake, or from the car park at Dove Lake. Visitors should remember that the wild weather of the Tasmanian highlands often reduces visibility and makes the mountain difficult or impossible to see.

Hanson's Peak Bushwalk at a glance:

• Short, easy day walk
• Some steep sections
• Alternative return routes
• Magnificent views
• Weather can be changeable

Trappers and hunters frequented the Cradle Mountain region in the early 20th Century. They constructed many huts in this area pre-1920. The death of a trapper from exposure, a sixteen-year-old lad named Bert Hanson in 1906 was the first recorded death of a European in the area. His death resulted in the and the naming of Hanson's Peak. Follow the left side of Dove Lake to get up to Hanson's Peak, following the Face Track down to Lake Wilks and return via the Ballroom Forest and the right-hand side of Dove Lake. Please note it is quite steep up Hansons peak and down past Lake Wilks. The Hansons Peak walk departs from the Dove Lake Carpark at Cradle Mountain, walkers can catch the bus to the car park from the Information Centre, with buses departing every 15 minutes, 7 days a week. There is no charge for the bus, but all visitors to Cradle Mountain must have a valid Tasmanian National Parks Pass. See also: Enchanted Walk : Crater Peak Walk : Marions Lookout :