The park covers an area of 16,527 hectares (40,772 acres), including the island's second-highest peak, Legges Tor, which is 1,572 metres (5,147 feet) above sea level. Just 50 kilometres (31 miles) from Launceston, Ben Lomond is Tasmania's principal downhill ski field.
A contemporary ski village and ski facilities have been established on the Ben Lomond plateau. While the runs are not as steep or fast as some of those in other States, the relative lack of crowds, the park's stunning scenery and the diverse wildlife make this a memorable alpine experience. Cross-country skiing is also popular.
If skiing is your objective, always check snow cover before departing for Ben Lomond.
Tasmania's characteristic dolerite columns so prized by rock-climbers and abseilers are especially dramatic here. Wildflowers abound in summer, and although much of the plateau is stony, elsewhere on the mountain there are dense forests and moorlands.
The hairpin bends of the road known as Jacobs Ladder and the sweeping views from its lookout make the drive to the plateau an experience in itself. If you are planning to bushwalk or ski, be sure to have windproof and rainproof gear - the weather can change rapidly, whatever the season.
Six unpowered camp sites suitable for tents or campervans are available inside the park boundary, six kilometres (3.7 miles) from the summit. Remote camping is permitted anywhere in the park as long as you are more than 500 metres (550 yards) from the road.
The Creek Inn at the ski village, is open year round and offers five ensuite rooms and one self-contained studio apartment. There is also a bar and licensed restaurant.
Ben Lomond is an easy day trip from Launceston or the east coast towns of St Marys and St Helens.
From Launceston travel via White Hills or Evandale onto the Blessington Road (C401). About 3.5 kilometres (two miles) before Upper Blessington, turn right onto the Ben Lomond Road, the only road within the park. It's eight kilometres (five miles) from the turnoff to the boundary and 18 kilometres (11 miles) to the alpine village. Jacobs Ladder is the name of the sharply winding and precipitous ascent to the plateau that is subject to ice and snow. Accordingly, please check road rules, conditions and details of a winter shuttle service.
No petrol is available on the mountain.
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