Guide to Lake St Clair

Tucked within Tasmania’s Central Highlands, Lake St Clair is Australia’s deepest freshwater lake and the southern gateway to the world-famous Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. With snow-capped peaks, ancient forests, and a stillness that feels far from the everyday, it’s a popular spot for walkers, photographers, and travellers looking to connect with nature. Whether you’re on a road trip through Tasmania or completing the iconic Overland Track, Lake St Clair offers one of the state’s most unforgettable wilderness experiences.

Why do people go to Lake St Clair?

People visit Lake St Clair Tasmania for the combination of natural beauty and access to one of Australia’s most celebrated national parks. Framed by dense rainforest and alpine ranges, the lake is known for its still waters, dramatic reflections, and rich biodiversity – including wombats, echidnas, platypus, and native birdlife.

The area is the finishing point of the Overland Track Tasmania, a six-day alpine hike that begins at Cradle Mountain. But even for those not tackling long-distance walks, there are plenty of shorter, accessible tracks and scenic points around the lake, many starting from Cynthia Bay, near the visitor centre.

Popular things to do at Lake St Clair include:

Short Lake St Clair walks, such as the Platypus Bay Track or Watersmeet
Boating, kayaking, or catching the Lake St Clair ferry across to Narcissus Bay
Wildlife spotting, especially at dawn or dusk
Dining at nearby cafes or booking a stay at Pumphouse Point Lake St Clair, a boutique retreat set over the water

How long should I spend at Lake St Clair?

If you're stopping by on a road trip, a full day is enough to walk a couple of trails, visit the Cynthia Bay Visitor Centre, and take a short ferry ride across the lake. The facilities are well set up for day visitors, and many of the walking tracks begin right from the main car park.

If you have more time, staying for 2–3 days lets you explore further, relax in nature, and take advantage of sunrise and sunset walks, when the light is at its best. Multi-day hikers or those completing the Overland Track will need to plan for several days, especially if combining it with accommodation or gear transfer services.

Is it okay to swim in Lake St Clair?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Lake St Clair, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. As the deepest freshwater lake in Australia, fed by snowmelt and alpine streams, the water is cold year-round, even in summer.

Some visitors take a quick dip on hot days, especially near Cynthia Bay, but it's not a designated swimming lake, and facilities like change rooms or lifeguards are not provided. If you're planning to swim, do so cautiously, and always stay close to shore.

How to get to Lake St Clair

Lake St Clair is located on the Lyell Highway (A10) and is easily accessible by road from Tasmania’s two major cities:

From Hobart: Around 180 km (2.5 hours). Take the A10 northwest via New Norfolk and through the Central Highlands.
From Launceston: Also roughly 180 km (3 hours), depending on the route. Drive via Deloraine and link up with the A10 from the highlands.

The road into Cynthia Bay is sealed and well-maintained. Once inside the park, signage is clear and directs visitors toward parking, walking tracks, and the visitor centre.

Best time to visit Lake St Clair

The best time of year to visit is between November and April, when temperatures are milder, walking trails are clear of snow, and services such as the Lake St Clair ferry are running on a regular schedule.

Summer (Dec–Feb): Great for walking, wildlife spotting, and camping
Autumn (Mar–May): Crisp air and beautiful colour changes in the forest
Winter (Jun–Aug): Cold and often snowy – scenic, but with limited trail access
Spring (Sep–Oct): Early blooms, but trails may still be damp or icy in sections

The best time of day is early morning, when the water is calm, and wildlife is active. Evening is also ideal for photography as the sun drops behind the mountains and softens the landscape.

Weather at Lake St Clair

The climate around Lake St Clair is alpine, meaning it remains cool throughout the year, with sudden changes in weather common, even in summer.

Typical temperatures:

Summer: 15–22°C during the day
Winter: 0–8°C, with regular frosts and occasional snowfall

It’s important to dress in layers, bring waterproof gear, and check track conditions before setting out, especially if hiking beyond the main walking tracks.

Best place to park your campervan at Lake St Clair

The main parking area is at Cynthia Bay, just beside the visitor centre. The car park is sealed and offers plenty of space for campervans and motorhomes, with flat access and a short walk to key facilities.

If you're planning to do the Overland Track, this is also where long-term parking is available while you arrange a shuttle or transfer to Cradle Mountain. Day visitors will find parking here convenient for accessing both short walks and lakefront areas.