Alpine Village to Little Hell Walk – Ben Lomond National Park

A Rugged Boulder-Field Route Across the Alpine Plateau

Despite its relatively short distance, the Alpine Village to Little Hell Walk is one of the more demanding short routes in Ben Lomond National Park. Rated Grade 5 – Hard, the route follows an old cross-country ski trail across exposed alpine terrain rather than a conventional formed walking track. Much of the journey involves navigating through dolerite scree, uneven rocks and large boulder fields. The reward is a raw and dramatic alpine landscape, with expansive views across Ben Lomond’s treeless plateau and the glacially shaped terrain surrounding Little Hell. This is a walk for experienced bushwalkers who are confident with route-finding, rough terrain and rapidly changing alpine weather.

Walk Overview

Terrain

The route begins near the Alpine Village and follows a cross-country ski route across the open plateau toward Little Hell. Unlike the formed walking tracks elsewhere in Ben Lomond National Park, much of this route is rough, rocky and only lightly defined. Walkers cross extensive dolerite scree and uneven boulder fields where careful foot placement is essential. There is relatively little sustained climbing, but the difficulty comes from the rough ground, navigation requirements and exposure to alpine weather.

Difficulty

This walk is rated Grade 5 – Hard.

The relatively short distance can be misleading. There may be no clear footpath for long sections, and progress across loose rock and large boulders can be slow. Navigation becomes particularly difficult if cloud, fog or snow reduces visibility across the plateau. Walkers should be experienced in off-track or lightly marked terrain and comfortable using a map, compass or GPS.

Walk Highlights

🪨 Little Hell Boulder Field

Little Hell is an extensive jumble of dolerite rocks and boulders on the high Ben Lomond plateau. The chaotic-looking terrain gives the area its memorable name and provides a striking contrast with the smoother alpine plains nearby. Crossing the area requires care, patience and confident footing.

🏔️ Glacial Plateau Scenery

Ben Lomond’s plateau was shaped by glacial activity, leaving behind boulder fields, scree and broad open alpine landscapes. The Little Hell route gives walkers a close-up view of this rugged terrain without the forest cover found on many lower-altitude Tasmanian walks. On a clear day, the views across the plateau can be spectacular.

🌿 Alpine Vegetation

Between the rock fields are patches of low alpine vegetation adapted to Ben Lomond’s cold, windy and exposed conditions. Stay on durable surfaces where possible and avoid trampling fragile vegetation when choosing your route through the plateau.

What to Bring

• Map and compass or GPS – navigation skills are essential
• Sturdy boots – preferably with good ankle support
• Warm insulating layers – even in summer
• Waterproof jacket – alpine weather can change quickly
• Water and snacks – there are no facilities once you leave the village
• Sun protection – the plateau is completely exposed
• Fully charged phone – but do not rely on phone reception

Safety

The combination of rough terrain and alpine exposure means preparation is important:

• Strong navigation skills are required
• Do not attempt the walk in poor visibility
• Avoid the route during strong winds or severe weather
• Wet or icy dolerite can become extremely slippery
• Tell someone your route and expected return time
• Carry full alpine-weather clothing regardless of conditions at lower elevations
• Turn around if conditions deteriorate

Is the Walk Suitable for Children?

Generally, no.

The route involves extensive rough boulder terrain, navigation challenges and exposure to rapidly changing alpine weather. It is best suited to experienced adult bushwalkers who are confident moving across uneven and untracked ground.

Are Dogs Allowed?

No. Dogs and other domestic pets are not permitted within Ben Lomond National Park.

Getting There

From Launceston, travel through White Hills toward Blessington and turn onto Ben Lomond Road. Continue into Ben Lomond National Park and follow the road toward the alpine plateau.

The final climb follows the famous Jacobs Ladder, a dramatic series of switchbacks rising toward the Alpine Village. The Little Hell route begins near the Alpine Village on the plateau.

Jacobs Ladder

Jacobs Ladder is one of Tasmania’s most distinctive mountain roads and forms part of the experience of reaching the walk. The narrow switchbacks climb steeply through dramatic dolerite terrain toward the plateau. Drive cautiously, watch for oncoming traffic and check road conditions before heading up the mountain, particularly during winter.

Facilities

Facilities are available around the Alpine Village, although some services operate seasonally.

Depending on the season, facilities may include:

• Toilets
• Seasonal kiosk facilities
• Ski and snow equipment hire
• Parking

There are no facilities once you leave the Alpine Village, so carry everything required for the walk.

Best Time to Walk

For most walkers, the safest conditions occur during clear, calm summer days. Even in summer, weather conditions on Ben Lomond can deteriorate rapidly. Winter transforms the plateau into snow country and significantly increases the difficulty of navigation and travel. Anyone considering the route in snow conditions should have appropriate alpine experience and equipment.

Why Walk to Little Hell?

The Little Hell route offers something very different from Ben Lomond’s easier formed tracks. Within a relatively short distance of the Alpine Village, experienced walkers can find themselves crossing genuinely rugged alpine terrain among huge dolerite boulders and exposed plateau landscapes. It is challenging without requiring a full-day expedition and provides an excellent introduction to the rougher side of Ben Lomond for walkers with suitable experience.

For confident navigators who enjoy boulder hopping and exposed alpine country, Little Hell is one of the most rugged short adventures in northern Tasmania.