Ben Lomond National Park

Ben Lomond is a dolerite plateau standing above the midlands northeast of Launceston, reaching 1,572 metres at Legges Tor, the second-highest point in Tasmania. The road onto the plateau climbs Jacobs Ladder, a series of six unsealed hairpin bends cut into the escarpment with a drop on the outside and no barrier, which is the memorable part of any visit. On top sits Tasmania's principal ski field, a small operation with a handful of lifts and an alpine village, running when snow allows from around July. In summer the plateau is open walking country of boulder fields, cushion plants and alpine flowers, with Legges Tor an easy climb from the village.

History

The mountain was the country of the Ben Lomond nation, at least three clans of some 150 to 200 people recorded as the Plangermaireener, Plindermairhemener and Tonenerweenerlarmenne, who moved through their lands with the seasons. In the early 1800s colonial settlement spreading up the South Esk river and its tributaries from Launceston and Norfolk Plains displaced them (Wikipedia, Ben Lomond - Tasmania).

What's there

• Jacobs Ladder - six unsealed hairpin bends climbing the escarpment.
• The ski field - Tasmania's main snowfield with a small alpine village.
• Legges Tor - the second-highest point in the state, easily walked in summer.
• The alpine plateau - boulder fields, cushion plants and summer wildflowers.

When to go

July to September for snow, though Tasmanian seasons are short and unreliable; December to March for walking the plateau. Chains are required in winter and the road closes in bad conditions. Weather changes fast at altitude.

Before you go

Jacobs Ladder is unsealed, narrow and unnerving, and is closed at times in winter. The ski field is small and seasons vary greatly. There is no fuel on the mountain, and facilities are minimal outside the ski season.

Nearby

Launceston lies west; Evandale and the midlands are southwest.

Key facts