Snow Skiing In Tasmania
Skiing in Australia was founded in the 1950s by family groups and migrants working on the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Scheme who came from countries where snow fell each winter. They recognised the potential for skiing in the Australian Alps, built the first resort accommodation, and soon set in motion the industry that thrives in Australia's High Country today.
New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania are the only states to experience sufficient snow each winter to support regular snow skiing activities. Though they are quite small by world standards, Australia's alpine region mountains are are easy to access and the terrain is gentle by international stardards.
Skiing in Tasmania takes place in the high country of the state during the Southern Hemisphere winter. Cross country skiing is possible within the Tasmanian Wilderness and two small downhill ski-fields have been developed at Ben Lomond and Mount Mawson. The Tasmanian Ski season opens in early July and closes in late September.
New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania are the only states to experience sufficient snow each winter to support regular snow skiing activities. Though they are quite small by world standards, Australia's alpine region mountains are are easy to access and the terrain is gentle by international stardards.
Skiing in Tasmania takes place in the high country of the state during the Southern Hemisphere winter. Cross country skiing is possible within the Tasmanian Wilderness and two small downhill ski-fields have been developed at Ben Lomond and Mount Mawson. The Tasmanian Ski season opens in early July and closes in late September.
Ben Lomond
Ben Lomond ski resort in Tasmania is the premier ski resort, what a place! The spectacular alpine scenery within the National Park is worth the trip.
Ben Lomond National Park is about one hour from Launceston, and three or more hours from Hobart. If you are driving, just remember there is NO fuel available on the mountain. The area covers some 16,527 hectares and has Tasmania's second-highest peak.
The ski village facilities are on the Ben Lomond plateau. The Village is set at the foot of the ski slopes and the ski runs are not as steep or fast as some of those in other resort, however the lack of crowds, the stunning scenery and the diverse wildlife make this a memorable alpine experience. Cross-country skiing and snowboarding are very popular.
You will find there are three T-Bars and four Poma lifts helping provide affordable skiing for the beginner to intermediate skier. During the ski season a shuttle bus service runs from the snowline to the top car park. You will need an entry pass, these can be purchased at the park entry or at the Creek Inn.
As Ben Lomond Mountain is in a Tasmanian National Park, you will need to purchase a Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife Pass. If you are staying longer than 24 hours or overnight / multiple days, alternative options are available for 8 week passes, Annual Passes and 2 year passes.
Phone: 1300 TASPARKS (1300 827 727)
Ben Lomond
Mount Mawson is located within the Mount Field National Park about 1 1/2 hours drive from Hobart in southern Tasmania. While the facilities are basic, the price makes up for it and it is never crowded. Mount Mawson is located within the Mount Field National Park.
The ski area is at an altitude of approximately 1250m and usually gets fairly consistent snow falls during winter resulting in sufficient cover for downhill skiing from mid July to mid September. This is a picturesque alpine environment featuring; gnarly snow gums, unique pandani plants and the calls of the ubiquitous currawong birds trumpeting across the valleys.
There are three 'nutcracker' rope tows and one small surface lift in the beginner's area, which is free, beginners are well catered for here. Tow belts for use with the rope tows can be hired on the mountain. The tows can be accessed from the car park. Two of the rope tows are intermediate standard, one is advanced standard. Roadway tow is the steepest serviced ski area in Tasmania.
Everyone is catered for, intermediates and the more advance or expert skiers and snowboarders. Cross-country skiing is excellent, with beautiful high-level routes around tarns to huts. There are spectacular views over the south-west Tasmanian wilderness and you will find one of the steepest runs in the country there. Just be aware that the snow conditions do vary a great deal so check it out before you go.
As Mount Mawson is in a Tasmanian National Park, you will need to purchase a Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife Pass.
Phone: 1300 TASPARKS (1300 827 727).