Ben Lomond Ski Field

Perched on the high plateau of Ben Lomond National Park, this ski field is Tasmania's premier alpine playground, offering a rugged, no-fuss experience that feels a world away from the glossy resorts of the mainland. With a handful of lifts, uncrowded slopes, and breathtaking views over the Tamar Valley, it's a place where you can ski, snowboard, or simply enjoy the crisp mountain air and the company of wallabies hopping through the snow.

Highlights & What to See

• Skiing & Snowboarding: The field features six lifts servicing a range of runs from beginner to advanced, with a terrain park for freestylers. The snow is often dry and powdery, and the lack of queues means more time on the slopes.
• Scenic Chairlift Rides: Even if you don't ski, the chairlift offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and the distant coastline. In summer, the mountain transforms into a hiking and mountain-biking destination.
• Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for Bennett’s wallabies, wombats, and even the occasional echidna. The alpine environment is home to unique flora like the cushion plant and snow gum.
• Ben Lomond Village: A small cluster of lodges and a café where you can warm up with a hot chocolate and swap stories with locals. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back.
• Night Skiing: On select weekends, the slopes are floodlit for a magical evening session under the stars.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a day trip from Launceston (a 1.5-hour drive), but staying overnight in one of the village lodges is highly recommended to soak up the alpine atmosphere and catch first tracks. A weekend allows time for a full day of skiing, plus a leisurely exploration of the national park's walking trails. If you're combining with a Tasmanian road trip, allocate at least one full day here, but be flexible: snow conditions can be fickle, so check the forecast and webcams before heading up.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cataract Gorge – A stunning natural gorge just minutes from Launceston's city centre, with walking trails, a chairlift, and a swimming pool. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon after a day on the mountain.
• Launceston – Tasmania's second city, with a vibrant food scene, historic architecture, and the Tamar Valley wine region on its doorstep. Spend a day exploring the city's museums, markets, and breweries.
• Tamar Valley – A wine lover's paradise, with cellar doors offering tastings of cool-climate wines like Pinot Noir and sparkling. The scenic drive along the Tamar River is dotted with vineyards and gourmet producers.
• Bridport – A charming coastal town on the way to Ben Lomond, known for its sandy beaches and the Barnbougle Dunes golf course. A great spot for a seafood lunch.
• Mount William National Park – A rugged coastal park with wild beaches, abundant wildlife, and the scenic Bay of Fires. It's a longer drive but rewards with stunning landscapes and solitude.

Please check official sources for current details.