Cradle Mountain Dash

[MountainMadness]

Hi All,

Apologies as these questions may have been addressed in the past on this forum (couldn't find them with 10 minutes of searching).

Early January 2016 I'm looking to drop into Dove lake and climb Cradle Mountain for sunrise. Yes I understand that its not just an easy stroll up a hill but I'm a fairly seasoned hiker/mountaineer/runner so I understand what I'm up against. Was looking to get an early start in the dark and run up the hill for a nice sunrise (of course weather dependent) and be back down by morning tea.

If I were to drive in to dove lake via the north as early as 3:30/4am and be out again mid morning what sort of permits do I need? Is access closed (ie boom gates etc) at all during the night? I have a quick look at the PWS site and it mentioned something about a car and a person permit but it wasn't that clear exactly what was needed. Also I don't need a permit or anything for the OT if I'm just doing a morning trip in do I?

The only time I have been to park and did the OT was a number of years ago and we did it in winter so I'm assuming things may have changed and are probably a bit different in peak season...

Thanks in advance.
Paul

[Azza]

You just need the standard Parks pass for your vehicle which entitles you to however many passengers.
You don't need any other permits to climb cradle.

There is a boom gate but its only used to limit numbers during the day, if your heading in at 3:30/4am it isn't going to be an issue.
Keep in mind that the sun rises pretty early at that time of year... i.e. 5:30 - 6am in January.

[Nuts]

You can buy a pass online: https://passes.parks.tas.gov.au/