Ben Lomond National Park Tasmania Jacob's Ladder
Experience the exhilarating drive up Jacob's Ladder, a steep, winding road to the stunning alpine landscapes of Ben Lomond National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, better visibility
Ben Lomond National Park Tasmania Jacob's Ladder
Best Time
Clearer skies, better visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the exhilarating drive up Jacob's Ladder, a steep, winding road to the stunning alpine landscapes of Ben Lomond National Park.
"Breathtaking scenery, terrifying hairpins, and totally worth the drive."
Drive with Caution 🚘
Take it slow on Jacob's Ladder, enjoy the views, and don't look down too often! 4WD recommended.
Pack Snacks & Water 🥚
Limited amenities at the summit. Bring your own provisions for a comfortable visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jacob's Ladder Drive
Ben Lomond National Park
Experience one of the world's steepest zig-zag roads with breathtaking alpine views. A true adventure!
Summit Views
Ben Lomond Summit
Panoramic vistas of rugged landscapes, valleys, and distant snowy peaks. Unforgettable scenery.
Ben Lomond Ski Village
Ben Lomond Summit
Explore the unique alpine village, a gateway to hiking trails and winter sports.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer Jacob's Ladder
Summit Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Drive with Caution 🚘
Take it slow on Jacob's Ladder, enjoy the views, and don't look down too often! 4WD recommended.
Pack Snacks & Water 🥚
Limited amenities at the summit. Bring your own provisions for a comfortable visit.
Check Weather 🌧️
Conditions change rapidly. Be prepared for wind, rain, or snow, even in summer.
Allow Ample Time 👫
The drive and exploration require several hours. Don't rush the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Drive with Caution 🚘
Take it slow on Jacob's Ladder, enjoy the views, and don't look down too often! 4WD recommended.
Pack Snacks & Water 🥚
Limited amenities at the summit. Bring your own provisions for a comfortable visit.
Check Weather 🌧️
Conditions change rapidly. Be prepared for wind, rain, or snow, even in summer.
Allow Ample Time 👫
The drive and exploration require several hours. Don't rush the experience.
Winter Road Conditions ☃️
Snow chains and 4WD are essential in winter. Summer access is easier for 2WD.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery and the thrilling, albeit terrifying, drive up Jacob's Ladder. The panoramic views from the summit are consistently described as spectacular and worth the challenging ascent. However, the lack of amenities at the top and the intense nature of the drive can be drawbacks for some.
"Stunning alpine passage consisting of several switchbacks with a viewing platform at the top overlooking the road, the surrounding rugged landscape and panoramic views out across the valley below."
Simon Meusburger
"We drove up Jacob’s Ladder in Ben Lomond National Park, and wow… it’s basically a scenic rollercoaster with a side of panic. This road is steep, twisty, and full of hairpin bends that make you question your life choices and your car insurance all at once. One moment you’re admiring the alpine views, the next you’re gripping the wheel, silently begging your brakes to cooperate.
The scenery is unreal — snowy peaks in the distance, valleys stretching forever, and those moments when the road disappears around a bend and you think, “Yep, that’s a sheer drop. Cool.” The wind in the windows is fresh and exhilarating, but also helps you breathe through the mild terror.
Pro tip: take it slow, enjoy the views, and don’t look down too often. Also, if you’re prone to car sickness, bring ginger tablets — the switchbacks are merciless. Driving up Jacob’s Ladder is equal parts thrill, adventure, and cardio for your heart.
Verdict: breathtaking scenery, terrifying hairpins, and totally worth the 3-hour drive from Hobart. Bring snacks, bring courage, and maybe bring a friend to laugh at your white-knuckle expressions."
S R
"Worth all the hype, the ride was not fantastic because of the low speed limit, but the view is breathtaking. No coffee to be found at the village unfortunately 😕"
David Harris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jacob's Ladder is a steep, winding gravel road with hairpin turns. Drive slowly and cautiously, especially in wet or snowy conditions. A 4WD is recommended, though 2WD vehicles can manage in summer. The drive is about an hour from Launceston.
In winter, Jacob's Ladder can be treacherous and may require snow chains and a 4WD. Always check road conditions and weather forecasts before attempting the drive during colder months.
Yes, you can walk from the lower car park to Jacob's Ladder and then on to Legges Tor. The lower car park is often used when the upper road is inaccessible or for those who prefer a longer hike.
The drive is described as a scenic rollercoaster with a side of panic due to steepness and hairpin bends. It offers breathtaking scenery and exhilarating wind.
Ben Lomond National Park is approximately a 3-hour drive from Hobart, making it a substantial day trip or an overnight stay.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Ben Lomond National Park is generally free, but it's always a good idea to check the official Parks Tasmania website for any updates or specific fees related to certain activities or facilities.
Ben Lomond National Park is typically open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access to Jacob's Ladder may be restricted during severe weather conditions, especially in winter.
There are no specific tickets required for Jacob's Ladder itself, as it's a public road within the national park. However, if you plan to visit the ski resort area, check their specific operational details.
While 2WD vehicles can access the park in summer, a 4WD is recommended for Jacob's Ladder. In winter, snow chains and 4WD are often mandatory due to snow and ice.
The speed limit on Jacob's Ladder is low to ensure safety due to the steepness and hairpin turns. Travelers have noted the low speed limit, but emphasize the view is worth it.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can explore the ski village, enjoy panoramic views, and embark on various hiking trails. The scenery is truly breathtaking.
Yes, Ben Lomond offers several hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels, leading to stunning viewpoints and alpine landscapes.
Expect spectacular views of the surrounding rugged landscape, valleys stretching out below, and potentially snowy peaks in the distance.
Absolutely! The dramatic landscapes, winding road, and panoramic vistas make it a photographer's paradise with endless opportunities.
Crowds can vary. Some visitors have noted surprisingly few people, even during summer holidays, while others might find it busier during peak times.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Unfortunately, there are no coffee or food facilities at the summit village. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Yes, packing a picnic is a great idea! There are stunning spots with incredible views where you can enjoy your meal.
The nearest significant town with dining options is Launceston, which is about an hour's drive from the park entrance.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing platform at the top offers incredible perspectives of the road and valley. The winding nature of the ladder itself is also highly photogenic.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with golden hues enhancing the dramatic landscapes.
Capture the scale by including your vehicle or people in the frame. Wide-angle lenses are great for the expansive views, and consider drone photography if permitted.
A camera with good low-light capabilities and a versatile lens range would be ideal. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for landscape shots, especially during sunrise or sunset.
If you visit during winter, the snow-covered landscapes offer unique and stunning photographic opportunities. Be sure to protect your gear from the cold and moisture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving Jacob's Ladder: A Thrill Seeker's Guide
Pro tips for navigating this iconic ascent include driving slowly, taking advantage of the viewing platform at the top to admire the road's design, and being prepared for the sheer drops. While the drive itself is the main attraction for many, the reward at the summit is unparalleled alpine scenery.
It's crucial to check weather conditions before heading up, as they can change rapidly. If you're prone to car sickness, bringing ginger tablets is a good idea, as the switchbacks can be relentless. Despite the challenges, the breathtaking views and the unique driving experience make Jacob's Ladder a must-do for adventurers visiting Tasmania.
Exploring Ben Lomond National Park: Beyond the Ladder
The park's landscape is characterized by dramatic rock formations, expansive valleys, and, in winter, a blanket of snow that transforms the scenery into a winter wonderland. Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to capture the dramatic terrain and sweeping views. It's advisable to pack layers of clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable and change quickly, even during summer months.
Remember that amenities at the summit are limited, so bringing your own food and water is essential for a comfortable exploration. The park is a fantastic destination for those looking to escape the ordinary and experience the raw, untamed beauty of Tasmania's highlands.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit