The Ben Lomond National Park has something for everyone, from the thrill-seeking rock climber to the gentle snowman creator. The park is home to some of Tasmania’s most impressive scenery, as well as fantastic ski fields, stunning alpine walking tracks, and lovable wildlife.
Ben Lomond is located just 60 km east of Launceston. We’ve listed seven reasons to explore this breathtaking spot (remember to grab a Parks Pass).
1. Admire the epic scenery
Be warned, you may have to pick your jaw up off the ground! Ben Lomond is surrounded by precipitous escarpments and striking mountain top features, such as dolerite columns and scree slopes. The alpine plateau is over 1500 metres high, with a stark, treeless landscape. It feels a bit like visiting another world, and it’s easy to see why Ben Lomond is appealing to ambitious rock climbers.
Image: @lauren.somers/Instagram
2. Conquer Jacob’s Ladder
Getting to the top is an adrenaline spiking experience! The steep ascent up the sharp twists and turns of Jacob’s Ladder is not for the fainthearted (and is a particularly good challenge for experienced cyclists). The scenery is spectacular, with dramatic cliffs and views out to Northern Tasmania. Take a moment at the top to catch your breath and enjoy the sights before you head on towards the alpine village.
Please note that the road is subject to ice and snow, so be sure to check the road rules and conditions, exercise caution, and consider catching the winter shuttle service.
Image: @kate_werner_photography/Instagram
3. Go skiing or snowboarding
Ben Lomond is the main destination for downhill skiing in Tasmania, with a charming alpine village nestled at the foot of the ski slopes. Ski season usually runs from early July to late September, but check the weather forecast and Ben Lomond Snow Sports for updates.
Adults and kids will have snow bother skiing or snowboarding, as most runs are suitable for beginner to intermediate levels. If you’re a first timer (or need to brush up on your skills), book a lesson with Ben Lomond Snow Sports.
Image: @thai.in.tas/Instagram
4. Enjoy good old fashioned family fun in the snow
Do you wanna build a snowman? There’s fun for the whole family on Ben Lomond, with snowman building, snow basketball, and toboggans to be enjoyed (did someone yell ‘snowball fight’?). If you need to thaw out, there’s a cosy café on the summit (the mountain hot chocolate will warm you up quick smart).
Image: @oliverfield12/Instagram
5. Say hello to the local wildlife
The Ben Lomond National Park plays a crucial role in regional wildlife conservation. Keep an eye out for Bennett’s wallabies and wombats—they are regularly seen in the ski village, even under blizzard conditions! Pademelons can be spotted in wet gullies and areas with thick undergrowth, while Forester kangaroos bounce along the southwest edge of the park.
Other animals known to call the park home include Eastern quolls, echidnas, platypus, potoroos, Tasmanian bettongs, possums, sugar gliders, native rodents, bats, birds (including the majestic wedge-tailed eagle), and frogs.
Image: @eviejadeimages/Instagram
6. Embark upon an alpine walk
There are spectacular sights to take in throughout the Ben Lomond National Park, and the vegetation is different to other parts of the state. Exploring on foot is a joy (especially if you prefer sturdy walking shoes to ski boots). During the warmer months, enjoy the alpine wildflowers in all their glory.
There are several day walks to choose from, including the Carr Villa to Alpine Village walk (1.5 hours one way) and the Alpine Village to Little Hell track (1.5 hours return).
Image: @emmajanewarren/Instagram
7. Stay awhile
While Ben Lomond makes an awesome day trip, there’s so much to do and see, you could easily stay for longer. There are several lodges in the alpine village (although accommodation is usually restricted to members and their guests).
If you have good thermals, set up in the small camping area below the summit, about one kilometre inside the park boundary. There are six unpowered sites suitable for tents or camper vans, flush toilet, drinking water, a lookout, and a shelter shed.
Image: @alexweir_/Instagram
Header image:
@benlomondsnowsports/Instagram
Words:
Isabel Galloway
