Mount Maurice

Rising dramatically from the Tasmanian wilderness, Mount Maurice is a rugged peak in the Ben Lomond National Park, offering intrepid travellers sweeping views over the surrounding valleys and the distant Tamar River. This is a place for those who love raw, untamed nature — think craggy dolerite outcrops, alpine heathlands, and the kind of silence that makes you feel like the last person on Earth. The summit rewards a challenging hike with a 360-degree panorama that stretches from Launceston to the Great Western Tiers.

Highlights & What to See

• Summit Hike: A steep but rewarding 4–5 hour return walk through subalpine vegetation, with the final scramble up the dolerite columns offering a true sense of achievement.
• Panoramic Views: From the top, soak in the patchwork of farmland, forest, and the Tamar River winding its way to the sea — particularly spectacular at sunset.
• Alpine Flora: In spring and summer, the slopes are dotted with colourful wildflowers, including cushion plants, snow gums, and delicate orchids.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for Bennett’s wallabies, wombats, and if you’re lucky, a wedge-tailed eagle soaring overhead.
• Ben Lomond National Park: Mount Maurice is part of this stunning park, which also features the ski fields of Ben Lomond in winter and excellent bushwalking tracks year-round.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least half a day to fully experience Mount Maurice. The summit hike itself takes 4–5 hours, and you’ll want extra time to pause for photos, a picnic, and to simply absorb the wild atmosphere. If you’re combining it with other stops in the Ben Lomond National Park, plan a full day to explore the area thoroughly. Early morning or late afternoon starts are best to avoid the heat and catch the light at its most dramatic.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cataract Gorge: A beautiful natural gorge just minutes from Launceston’s city centre, with walking trails, a chairlift, and peacocks roaming the grounds.
• Launceston City: Tasmania’s second-largest city offers a vibrant food and café scene, historic architecture, and the excellent Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery.
• Tamar Valley Wine Route: A scenic drive through rolling vineyards, with cellar doors offering tastings of cool-climate wines, particularly Pinot Noir and sparkling.
• Ben Lomond Village: In winter, this is the hub for skiing and snowboarding; in summer, it’s a base for walks and mountain biking.
• Bridport & the Bay of Fires: A 90-minute drive east takes you to the stunning white beaches and orange-hued granite boulders of the Bay of Fires.

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