david cowles, Dove Lake Walk in Fagus Season (LANDSCAPE 2025)

Around ANZC Day each year, there is a festival in Cradle Mountain to celebrate the Autumn colour of Australia's only native winter deciduous tree. The " Fagus" or "Southern Beech" tree goes right back to "Gondwana" super -continent times of the Dinosaurs. These days they are only found in areas of high rainfall and at an altitude of around 800 M . Only in Tasmania. Starting our 6 km Dove Lake circuit walk from the new interpretative centre, we were delighted to see Cradle Mountain in full for the first time. Having been here on a number of occasions, it is quite rare to get these clear conditions even for only a few minutes at a time. Cradle Mountain and surrounding areas on average can have over 300 -330 days of cloud ,rain or fog making it unlikely to see the total vista and rock wall face of Cradle Mountain which stands at 1545 M. The Dove lake walk is very well maintained and signposted. There are many viewing points along the journey. There is so much to see. This was this first time we have been here when the Fagus was visible. It made for a spectacular show and colour contrast against the Mountain Trees, Rock Walls ,the Blueish lake and the overall vistas. A magical area to immerse yourself in. It is well visited by large numbers of tourists. However, the area is so large you can find locations to sit an contemplate and enjoy the silence and just listen to nature. Great for the spirit and soul. A must visit. Plenty of accommodation . Also a good location to visit any time of the year. A lot of history to immerse yourself in here also.

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