Devils at Cradle

Deep in the Tasmanian wilderness, Devils at Cradle offers an intimate encounter with the island's most famous and ferocious marsupials. This wildlife sanctuary, set against the dramatic backdrop of Cradle Mountain, is dedicated to the conservation of Tasmanian devils, quolls, and other native predators. It's a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand Tasmania's unique ecosystem and see these animals up close in a natural setting.

Highlights & What to See

• Tasmanian Devil Feeding & Talks: Watch these charismatic creatures devour their meals while learning about their behaviour and the devastating impact of Devil Facial Tumour Disease. The keepers' commentary is both educational and entertaining.
• Nocturnal House: Step into the dimly lit nocturnal house to observe quolls, bandicoots, and other shy residents as they go about their nightly routines. It's the best chance to see these elusive animals active.
• Devil's Den Viewing Window: Get nose-to-nose with devils through a large glass window in their enclosure. This is prime photo-op territory, especially during feeding time when they're most active.
• Conservation in Action: Devils at Cradle runs a breeding program for the endangered Tasmanian devil. The informative displays explain the conservation efforts and how you can help.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tours: For a deeper dive, book a VIP tour that takes you into the enclosures and the nursery, where you can see joeys up close.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend between 1.5 and 2 hours at Devils at Cradle. The sanctuary is compact but packed with experiences. Time your visit around one of the daily feeding sessions (usually at 10:30am and 2:30pm) to get the most out of your trip. If you're staying in the Cradle Mountain area, an evening visit for the nocturnal tour (available in summer) is a magical alternative.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cradle Mountain National Park: The sanctuary is just a 5-minute drive from the park entrance. Combine with a walk to Dove Lake or a climb up Cradle Mountain itself for a full day of wilderness.
• Waldheim Chalet: A historic hut in the national park that offers a glimpse into early tourism in the area. It's a short drive from Devils at Cradle and makes for a nice stop.
• Lake St Clair: About an hour's drive south, this is the deepest lake in Australia and the endpoint of the famous Overland Track. It's perfect for a scenic picnic or a gentle lakeside walk.
• Sheffield (Town of Murals): A quirky town about 45 minutes north, known for its vibrant street art. It's a great place to break the journey to or from Launceston.

Please check official sources for current details.