The full version of the Ben Lomond National Park Ski Slope Plan 2010 can be downloaded as a PDF File (8100 Kb).
Executive Summary
The Ben Lomond Skifield Development Plan (PWS 1993) identifies a ‘Management Zone B - Primary
downhill skiing area’ or ‘ski slope’ within the Ben Lomond National Park in north-east Tasmania (Map 1).
The ski slopes are one hour from Launceston and just over 3 hours from Hobart by car. The slopes have
traditionally formed part of an affordable family-oriented skifield. Although visitors now come for a variety
of recreational, social and educational activities, skiing and snow boarding are still the main focus and
visitation is overwhelmingly during the snow season. Most facilities and infrastructure on the ski slopes are
centred on snow sports. Other winter activities include tobogganing, snow-play and socialising. However,
the ski slope is accessible all year around and is also used for walking and nature appreciation.
The Draft Ski Slope Plan assesses current facilities, services, conditions and management regimes and guides
phased improvements and the potential expansion of infrastructure, facilities and services for ‘winter’ and
‘non-winter’ recreation to meet changing demand and interests. This Ski Slope Plan promotes
contemporary guidelines and methods used to successfully manage other Australian ski resorts. The Plan
also reinforces the need for all development to be accompanied by conservation and rehabilitation
measures, commensurate with impacts and the slope’s natural values.
The Ben Lomond ski slopes are relatively small and marginal, with resources for development and
maintenance being limited. The slopes have limited gentle and smooth terrain suited to beginner, novice
and low intermediate skiers and natural obstacles abound, further challenging skiers.
However, targeted slope grooming, snow farming, winter grooming or / and tow capacity increases will
better allow for marginal conditions and improve skier enjoyment. Improvements for more reliable and
enjoyable tobogganing, tubing, snow play and other winter recreation are supported. While technically
feasible, further trialling, assessment and resourcing of targeted snow making is largely the responsibility of
commercial interests. The Ski Slope Plan supports construction of an appropriate vehicle service route to
major ski infrastructure, to avoid undesirable environmental impacts and reduce maintenance costs.
Maps in this Ski Slope Plan identify proposed locations of walking tracks, snow fences, tows, skiing runs,
activity areas, services and service routes. Several location options are identified for a potential terrain
park, tubing and tobogganing facilities. Tables indicate existing and proposed skill, tow and slope capacities.
The tows could comfortably handle 300 - 700 patrons in 2009, depending on snow conditions.
There is currently limited directional or interpretive signage for summer visitors. However there is
potential for an easy ‘dry shoe’ walk with interpretation to Legges Tor, the second highest peak in Tasmania.
The characteristics of the area that appeal to ‘year round’ visitors should be conserved and enhanced,
particularly the slope’s visual quality and heritage associated with the area’s skiing history (ie. Summit lodges).
The implementation of many supported ski slope improvements, heavily relies on resourcing by commercial
operators and volunteer assistance. However, there are actions that will require a coordinated effort from
all parties, including the managing authority (ie Parks and Wildlife Service) and community interest groups.
An agreed yearly works schedule or plan should be developed by the relevant parties to maximise
opportunities to fund and implement components of this plan in a timely and coordinated manner.