Hi sorry about the late reply. No rentals at the CM Visitor Centre or in the immediate area. As per previous member reply a carrier backpack would be the best option for a little one that cannot walk the trails.

he shuttle stops near the lodge. It's about a 5-10 minute walk from the shuttle stop. Luckily the walk is nice.

Think you can but there is certain time range for it. Better to use shuttle bus as road is winding and narrow. Ask at info counter whether you can drive up to Doce Lake. I asked and they said no so we took the shuttle bus but we saw a few cars drove up there themselves. However, the shuttle bus drivers are constantly in touch on microphone informing where they are etc. Certain stretch only can accommodate 1 car lane. So, still better to take shuttle bus in my opinion

There is a cafe at the visitors center but it closed at 5pm when we were there in Feb, surprising really since there are many people in the park after this time.

I did not mention waterfalls here maybe someone else's review, I did review russell falls .Sorry

I wouldn’t consider driving from Launceston to Cradles late afternoon or evening, especially during winter for the reasons already mentioned by other users. Poor visibility, animals, slippery road are just some of the risks associated. The road to cradles is quite narrow and windy. The GPS might not work so well in the rural if you were lost. I would avoid travelling at dawn or dusk at all cost.

It’s an easy ride, but beware that Sat nag may not work and drive to a reasonable speed and there’s only one hard to see turn to Cradle. Keep going to the actual entrance to the park as Peppers is on the rest. It’s a beautiful drive on a sunny day, even cold. The car rental team are pretty good. We flew to Devonport and it’s an easier drive and the locals there know the area well and advise you on conditions as they are watching the weather. Peppers is terrific with great dinner and breakfast but be aware no mobile phone coverage unless your carrier links with Telstra (Optus does not work) and very little Wi-Fi even in hotels. You should not need chains but check your tires are in good tread. In my opinion you should take full insurance coverage as many young Tasmanians are not insured and there are wallabies and wildlife along the road which could ‘ding’ your car.