Marion’s Lookout: How to Hike One of Cradle Mountain's Best Viewpoints
When guests ask us for hiking recommendations in Cradle Mountain beyond Dove Lake, one of our go-to responses is: Marion’s Lookout. This 3-hour trek is one of the best ways to experience the dramatic landscapes of Tasmania's Central Highlands without committing to a multi-day walk, like the iconic Overland Track.
The walk combines everything that makes this part of Tasmania so spectacular: ancient rainforest, button grass moorland, glacial lakes, rugged mountains and sweeping alpine views. What more could you want?
And while the hike to Marion's Lookout involves a decent climb, you don't need to be an experienced mountaineer to tackle it. With the right footwear and preparation (and favourable weather), it's an achievable half-day walk for reasonably fit hikers.
Here's everything you need to know about hiking to Marion's Lookout, including the best route and tips for a memorable adventure.
For more short walk inspiration in Cradle Mountain, check out our blog article here.
What is Marion's Lookout?
Marion's Lookout is a spectacular viewpoint that overlooks Crater Lake and Dove Lake, with panoramas extending across Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. The lookout sits at an elevation of 1,220 metres, making it one of the highest accessible viewpoints in the Dove Lake area.
From the rocky summit, you can admire the distinctive jagged peak of Cradle Mountain itself, plus several others that rise dramatically beyond it. On a clear day, the views are exceptional and well worth the climb!
But in our opinion, the journey is just as memorable as the destination. The trail passes through changing vegetation, from temperate rainforest to open alpine landscapes, giving you a wonderful introduction to the environment around Cradle Mountain.
Do I need a Parks Pass to hike to Marion’s Lookout?
Yes, Marion’s Lookout is located within Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, so you need a Parks Pass. These can be purchased online or at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. Shuttle bus tickets can also be purchased here ($15 per person for 72-hour access) and these can be used to access the trailhead at Ronny Creek.
Marion's Lookout hike at a glance
Distance: Approximately 7 km return, depending on your route
Time: Around 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting point: Ronny Creek
The exact distance and duration of the Marion’s Lookout hike varies depending on the route you take and whether you include additional sections around Dove Lake. But for the purposes of this article, we’re going to detail the route that leaves from Ronny Creek, taking in Crater Lake and returning via Wombat Pool.
Hiking to Marion's Lookout from Ronny Creek
Starting at Ronny Creek, follow the boardwalk alongside the creek before crossing the bridge and continuing towards Crater Lake. There are a few possible turn-offs along the way, with paths leading towards the Waldheim Cabins, Lake Lilla and the Horse Track. But resist the urge to detour and continue following the signs for Crater Lake.
The track gradually climbs through vegetation that is quintessentially Tasmanian, with moss-covered trees, ferns and dense undergrowth. As you gain elevation, the forest begins to open up and the landscape starts to feel more alpine.
One of the highlights along the way is Crater Lake, a small but beautifully situated glacial lake surrounded by steep mountains and forest. Notice we said “glacial lake” as (despite its name) the lake was not volcanically formed!
Nearby is the historic Crater Lake Boat Shed, which provides an interesting glimpse into the recreational history of the area. Built in the 1940s, it was designed to house Huon pine rowboats that visitors would use to explore the lake.
From Crater Lake, the trail continues climbing towards the saddle between Marion's Lookout and Wombat Peak. When you reach the intersection, turn right and begin the final climb to Marion's Lookout. It’s reasonably steep in places, but there are chains to assist if you don’t want to scramble on your hands.
If conditions are wet or snowy, be aware that the track can become very slippery. Take care to ensure you have a solid foothold and don’t take any unnecessary risks if the weather has turned.
Once you reach Marion's Lookout, take some time to enjoy the spectacular views. If it’s not too windy, it’s also a fantastic place to stop for lunch. Find a (somewhat) sheltered spot, have something to eat and simply soak up the scenery before starting the descent.
Just be aware that conditions at the lookout can be considerably colder and windier than they are at Dove Lake, so come prepared! It’s also not uncommon for cloud to come in and completely obscure the viewpoint. Sometimes this clears, sometimes it doesn’t.
Our advice is to stop and enjoy the views (when you have them) on the way up, as there are no guarantees they will still be there at the top!
When you're ready to leave Marion's Lookout, retrace your steps back down to the saddle and the intersection. Rather than turning left back towards Crater Lake, continue straight ahead onto the Wombat Track. This is something that we love about this route - you aren’t following the same trail on the way down!
Instead, the trail descends past Wombat Pool and Lake Lilla, with plenty more beautiful scenery along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for wombats grazing in the open areas…or at least signs of their square-shaped droppings!
Wallabies and echidnas also frequent the area. While it can be exciting seeing native wildlife up close, please don't feed the animals and give them plenty of space if you encounter them on the trail.
Eventually, you'll reach the Lake Lilla Track. From here, turning right will take you towards the Dove Lake Car Park, while turning left allows you to complete the Lake Lilla Track and return to Ronny Creek. Take your pick!
Is Marion's Lookout difficult?
We'd describe Marion's Lookout as “moderate”, rather than an “easy” walk. The overall distance isn't particularly intimidating, but the elevation gain and steep sections make it more challenging than the Dove Lake Circuit or some of the other short walks in Cradle Mountain.
The chains on the steep section are designed to make the climb easier, but the uneven and sometimes exposed terrain can feel intimidating for some. At the very least, you should have a reasonable level of fitness and be confident walking on rocky, muddy and uneven trails.
It's also important to remember that Tasmanian alpine weather can change rapidly….and we mean rapidly! A sunny morning at the visitor centre doesn't necessarily mean you'll have calm, clear conditions at Marion's Lookout. Come prepared for all weather, even if it means carrying extra layers.
What should you take?
Even though Marion’s Lookout is only a half-day hike, we’d recommend you treat it as a proper mountain adventure. It’s always better to bring things you don’t end up needing than be under-prepared.
We'd recommend carrying:
• Plenty of drinking water
• Snacks or lunch
• Waterproof jacket
• Warm layers
• Hat and gloves
• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
• Sun protection
• Phone and/or offline map
• A small first-aid kit
When is the best time to hike Marion's Lookout?
The warmer months generally offer the best conditions for hiking around Cradle Mountain, particularly from late spring through autumn. In the summer, you’ll have longer daylight hours and less chance of rain. But this is also the busiest time to be in the national park.
We particularly love autumn, with the changing colours adding a special dimension to the landscape. And in springtime, you get those gorgeous wildflower blooms that are oh-so photogenic!
Hiking Marion’s Lookout in winter is a completely different experience and we wouldn’t recommend it for inexperienced trekkers. Snow can transform the area into a spectacular alpine landscape, but the conditions also make the hike more demanding. Always consider whether you have the equipment and skills required before attempting the trail in winter.
Tips for hiking Marion's Lookout
Check the weather
If there’s one thing you take away from this article, let it be this! Always review the weather forecast before you depart and check conditions specifically for Cradle Mountain (not Hobart or Launceston).
If you turn up at Dove Lake and the skies are clear and sunny, still be prepared for chilly conditions, rain and strong winds at Marion’s Lookout. If you’re not sure whether it’s a good idea to trek on that particular day, ask the rangers at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre for their recommendation.
Start early and allow plenty of time
Starting early gives you a better chance of enjoying the trail before it becomes busy, particularly during peak periods (December/January and Easter). It also means you’ll have a buffer if you get lost or want to explore a side trail.
Even though the track is only 7 kilometres and can be completed in 3 hours (or less), don’t underestimate the climb. Give yourself enough time to walk at a comfortable pace, stop for photographs and deal with changing conditions. Oh, and enjoy the views!
Practice “Leave No Trace” Principles
Cradle Mountain's alpine environment is fragile, so please take care to leave no trace. Stay on marked tracks wherever possible, take all rubbish with you and avoid disturbing plants, rocks and wildlife. As tempting as it might be, don’t pick flowers or remove natural objects as “souvenirs”.
Wet weather can create muddy conditions, but walking around puddles or creating new tracks damages the surrounding vegetation. Stick to the established trail, even when conditions aren't perfect and even if it means stomping through a big puddle!
Bring layers and a waterproof jacket
Even if it’s T-shirt and shorts weather at Dove Lake, that doesn’t mean it’s not sweater and waterproof jacket weather at Marion’s Lookout! It’s highly likely that conditions at the summit will be colder and windier than down below, so it’s important to come prepared. Layers are a good idea as they allow you to adjust as you climb and a light waterproof jacket won’t add too much to the weight you’re carrying.
Don't forget your camera
The views from Marion's Lookout are among the best in Cradle Mountain, so we’d highly recommend you bring a camera to capture the moment. That said, don’t spend the entire time looking through your lens. One of the great joys of bushwalking in Tasmania is being in the moment and experiencing the landscapes with your own eyes.