Hey there! Welcome to the first of many blog posts here on Dreaming Big Media. This will become a place to share further insights behind some of the photos and videos created by us and to give a deeper understanding about some of the challenges and triumphs we face when capturing epic scenes.
If you're an experienced hiker or photographer looking to visit Tasmania, you should definitely consider checking out Cradle Mountain. This beautiful and rugged area has a lot to offer, but there are some pros and cons you should be aware of before you go.
First off, let's talk about the good stuff. Cradle Mountain has some incredible hiking trails, including the Overland Track, which is super challenging and spans 65 kilometers of wild Tasmanian terrain. If you're a keen photographer, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to taking stunning shots of the rugged landscape and unique flora and fauna. Plus, that jagged peak of the mountain is a real showstopper! Keep in mind you are unable to simply rock up to the overland track and simply start walking, there is a booking process in place which is typically done many months in advance for peak season. You are able to find more information about this by visiting Tasmanian parks website or visiting the link here: https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/cradle-mountain/overland-track
Now, let's talk about the downsides and for me these stood out far more than the good here. For one thing, the weather in Tassie can be pretty unpredictable, with rain, fog, and snow all possible at any time of year. This can make hiking and photography a bit more challenging (and dangerous), so make sure you come prepared - warm clothes are essential, even in summer. Additionally, the terrain in Cradle Mountain is steep and rocky, so it's definitely not a place for inexperienced hikers. Make sure you have a plan and a map (a downloaded one on your phone is handy. I like to use Gaia).
One thing to keep in mind is that Cradle Mountain is super popular, especially during peak season. As nature lovers and people who associate the term “nature” with solace and peace keep in mind it can get pretty crowded, which can be a bummer if you're trying to enjoy the sounds of nature. Plus, there are some restrictions on where you can go in the park to protect the environment, so make sure you do your research beforehand. Oh, and one more thing – you can't actually drive up to Dove Lake, which is where a lot of the hiking trails start. You'll need to catch a bus from the visitor information centre instead.
All that said, if you're visiting the beautiful state of Tasmania and are heading up towards the north and want to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in Australia, Cradle Mountain is definitely worth a visit. Just make sure you come prepared for whatever the Tassie weather throws at you!
All the best,
Cahn