Cradle Mountain Summit day hike

I was lucky to have perfect weather. Most of the hike was moderate but the final summit climb (after the wooden overland hut at the cross-roads of the various paths) was very steep and difficult, and dangerous for those not very sure-footed. There are patches where climbing on hands and knees is required over giant boulders up near the granite spires. The route is marked by metal spikes among the rocks here and sometimes they are hard to see. It is usual for the summit to be cloud-covered, even in summer. The return route passed across a high plateau, and there was a long stretch of steps downwards towards the end. Plenty of beautiful scenic views along the way. Easy-to-walk boardwalks along the lower paths from Dove Lake.