Dove Canyon is a half day track that starts in myrtle rainforest, progresses through open forest past a steep canyon and finishes by crossing buttongrass plains. With one steep section some fitness is required but its lower elevation makes it attractive as an option in poorer weather. Features visited include Pencil Pine Falls, Knyvet Falls and Dove Canyon.
The walk starts from the Cradle Mountain Interpretation Centre near Cradle Mountain Lodge. A free bus is available from the Visitor Centre or you can park in the visitor centre there. If staying at the lodge simply walk down to the road and start on the path opposite the shop.
TasMaps produces a topographic map that covers the walk, but the free tourist maps available from the visitor centre are sufficient.
From the Interpretation Centre walk along the road towards Cradle Mountain Lodge. A boardwalk starts opposite the shop and leads towards Knyvet Falls. Take the short detour to view Pencil Pine Falls when you first enter the rainforest before returning to the track to Knyvet Falls.
The track follows Pencil Pine Creek until its junction with Dove Creek. Enjoy views of the creek and the canyon as you pass through various ecosystems. This section of the track is somewhat uneven so walkers unfamiliar with natural tracks may find it challenging, though bushwalkers with any experience will not find it a challenge. Finally the track climbs up steeply and requires some easy rock scrambling. Fit walkers should have no trouble, but take care in the wet.
The track returns to the Interpretation Centre on a boardwalk across buttongrass fields.
Entry to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair NP requires a National Parks pass. These can be purchased from the Information Centre and provide free us of the shuttle buses.
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