Experience the magic of Cradle Mountain’s Enchanted Nature Walk, a short interpretive trail that takes visitors through a mesmerising native forest. Walk beneath a canopy of gnarled myrtle-beech trees and towering pencil pines and stop to feel the soft mosses that festoon the bark and forest floor. Learn about the flora and fauna of this unique region with the kids by climbing through interpretive tunnels.
Begin your walk and take in the tranquil ambience of the forest. The walk begins in a moorland of buttongrass before merging with the mystical myrtle forest. Spend a moment listening to the sounds of the water burbling down Pencil Pine Creek and smell the fragrant peaty scent of the old-growth foliage. As you walk along the boardwalk, notice the rich diversity of mosses and lichens that live on the branches and undergrowth of the forest.
You’ll come across three interpretive tunnels, which are perfect for children to explore. The tunnels feature informative displays that explain the flora and fauna of the area and encourage young ones to look out for different plant and animal species. Keep your eyes peeled for wombat burrows, which are common along the western bank of the creek. You’re most likely to see these furry marsupial creatures at dawn or dusk when they move about their burrows to go foraging for food.
Take a moment to sit by the cascading Pencil Pine Creek and watch as the pristine waters tumble over smooth river rocks. There are picnic and public toilet facilities nearby at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, so you can enjoy an afternoon with the family in these tranquil surroundings.
The Enchanted Nature Walk is a 1.1-kilometre (0.7-mile) circuit that takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. It is suitable for children of all ages. Pack clothing, including a rain jacket and a sun hat, to suit changes in the weather. Wind, rain and snow can occur in this area at any time of the year. The trail is free to access, however, the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park has a fee for entry. Parking is available at the visitor centre.
