Ben Lomond National Park

Rising dramatically above the Tasmanian midlands, Ben Lomond National Park is a high-altitude wonderland of dolerite peaks, alpine heathlands, and snow-swept plateaus. Tasmania’s premier ski destination in winter transforms into a hiker’s paradise come summer, with clear air, wildflowers, and panoramic views that stretch to the distant sea. The drive up Jacob’s Ladder – a steep, zigzagging gravel road – is an adventure in itself, delivering you to a starkly beautiful landscape few visitors experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Legges Tor: Tasmania’s second-highest peak at 1572 m, offering a relatively easy walk from the car park with breathtaking 360-degree views over the northeast.
• Jacobs Ladder: The thrilling access road with tight hairpin bends and sheer drops – a rite of passage for drivers and a photographer’s dream.
• Alpine Walking Tracks: Explore short trails like the Carr Villa walk or the longer ascent to the summit of Stacks Bluff, where cushion plants and snow gums line the path.
• Winter Skiing & Snowboarding: The Ben Lomond Ski Field is Tasmania’s largest, with a handful of lifts, a lodge, and good beginner-to-intermediate terrain.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for Bennett’s wallabies, wombats, and the elusive Tasmanian devil, especially around dusk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors can experience the highlights in a day trip from Launceston (about 1.5 hours’ drive). Arrive early to tackle the Legges Tor walk (2–3 hours return) and enjoy a picnic on the plateau. If you’re skiing, plan for a full day on the slopes. For keen hikers, an overnight stay at the basic Carr Villa hut allows for a sunset summit and a morning exploration of the lesser-visited eastern escarpment.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Launceston: Gateway to the Tamar Valley wine region and the Cataract Gorge, ideal for a pre- or post-park city stop.
• Freycinet National Park: About 2.5 hours east, with the iconic Wineglass Bay and coastal granite peaks.
• Cradle Mountain: A 3-hour drive west, offering the famous Overland Track and alpine wilderness.
• Hobart: The state capital, 2.5 hours south, with MONA, Salamanca Market, and Mount Wellington.
• Port Arthur: Historic convict settlement on the Tasman Peninsula, 3 hours south, rich in colonial history.
• Bruny Island: A 3-hour drive and ferry ride south, known for gourmet food, wildlife, and dramatic coastline.

Please check official sources for current details.