Tasmania: A fat-tire heaven for locum dirt fiends
Tasmania, Australia. Mountain bikers have long kept quiet about the outstanding trails here, but in an area crawling with outdoor adventures - not to mention adventurers - a secret like this is tough to contain.
Known for its outstanding skiing,
the Ben Lomond National Park (which encompasses the Mountain Range of
the same name) offers a challenge for those of you who are into pedal power: Jacob’s Ladder.
Aptly named after the ladder to heaven described in the Book of Genesis, this steep and narrow zigzag road ascends to heaven - or at least 5148 feet (1570 meters) - and the thrilling descent is heaven on earth for bike riders. The hairpin bends of the road and the sweeping views from its lookout make the drive to the plateau an experience in itself. Jacob’s Ladder also happens to be the final section of the ascent to the Ben Lomond peak - and the only way to get to the ski resorts.
The characteristic dolerite (the type of rock) columns so prized by rock-climbers and rapellers (abseilers) are especially dramatic here. Wildflowers abound in summer, and despite the stony plateaus, there are also dense forests and moorlands most of us associate with places like Scotland.
Astride bikes, riders start near the summit, and then cruise down sweeping fire-trail switchbacks before hitting the main trail down. One Jacob’s Ladder devotee, Andrew Harris, describes the ride this way: “Fist-sized rocks, lung busting ascents and hope-and-pray descents combine with vast vistas and temperamental weather for an unprecedented outdoor experience.” You can also take some tough secondary access trails and sculpted single-tracks, which make riders a little less sorry that their Jacob’s Ladder descent is behind them.
This spectacular ride is less than an hour from Launceston, Tasmania’s second largest town and a true mountain-biker’s haven. With one of the highest per-capita densities of bike shops in Australia, you can buy or hire at Mountain Bike Tasmania (MBT). Not only will MBT help you with gear, they can also provide guide who will tailor your Jacob’s Ladder ride to your skill level. In addition to Jacob’s Ladder and Ben Lomond, Tasmania's dirt fiends recommend Kate Reed Nature Recreation Reserve. Wedged between the Midland and Bass highways, there’s no set route to follow, but it’s difficult to get lost; just go where you please along the trails and fire roads.
A word to the wise: Whether you’re planning to bike, bushwalk or ski in Tasmania while you locum, be sure to have windproof and rainproof gear - the weather can change rapidly, whatever the season. It’s common to see people pedaling Jacob’s Ladder in the snow, even though chains are required on vehicles. Says one steadfast rider, “I enjoy the cool weather: it’s easier to see the incredible views if you’re not drowning in sweat!”
Check out the view of a decent down Jacob's Ladder from a (motorized) bike here:
What do you think about...Jacob's Ladder and biking in Tasmania?