Written by Ben Cole· Updated Apr 2026Quick Actions
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About Lake St Clair
Australia's deepest lake at 167 metres depth, Lake St Clair occupies a glacially scoured basin at the southern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and forms the terminus of the famous Overland Track. The lake is 17km long and lies within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, surrounded by ancient stands of pencil pine, celery-top pine, and Huon pine. A ferry service crosses the lake from Narcissus Bay to Cynthia Bay, used by Overland Track hikers.
About
Australia's deepest lake at 167 metres depth, Lake St Clair occupies a glacially scoured basin at the southern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and forms the terminus of the famous Overland Track. The lake is 17km long and lies within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, surrounded by ancient stands of pencil pine, celery-top pine, and Huon pine. A ferry service crosses the lake from Narcissus Bay to Cynthia Bay, used by Overland Track hikers.
History & Significance
Lake St Clair was carved by glacial activity during the Pleistocene epoch, creating Australia's deepest freshwater lake at 167 metres. It became significant as the terminus of the Overland Track, Tasmania's most famous long-distance hiking trail established in the 1920s. The lake lies within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, recognised for its pristine wilderness and rare vegetation including ancient Huon pine forests.
Sources & References
Getting There
Nearest major town is Devonport (90km north). From Hobart, drive north via Lake Highway and Lyrebird Rd to Narcissus Bay/Cynthia Bay carpark (around 2.5 hours total). Park access is via C6 road through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
Parking
Free parking at both Narcissus Bay and Cynthia Bay carparks. Capacity is limited and fills quickly during peak season and on weekends. Accessible parking available near visitor centre. Overflow parking is not clearly marked — arrive early or use alternative access points.
Visitor Tips
- •Book the ferry in advance during peak season (December-February) as it fills quickly with Overland Track hikers
- •Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends and during hiking season
- •Bring insect repellent — Tasmanian wilderness can have biting insects, particularly in warmer months
- •Water is cold year-round; swimming is possible but only for hardy swimmers
- •The lake offers excellent kayaking and fishing, but conditions can change rapidly — check weather before setting out
Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- World Heritage
Plan Your Visit
- Duration
- Full day to multiple days
- Best Time
- December to February for warmest conditions and reliable ferry service. November and March offer fewer crowds. June to August is coldest and can be icy; weather is extremely changeable year-round. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
- Hours
- Park open 24/7; Visitor Centre 8am-5pm; Ferry seasonal
Location
- Region
- Central Highlands
- State
- Tasmania
Good to Know
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages, though Overland Track hiking suits ages 10+ with good fitness; younger children suitable for lakeside walking and ferry ride
- Shade/Cover
- Moderate shade
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
Cafe at Cynthia Bay offers light refreshments. Picnic areas available. BYO supplies recommended as options are limited.
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