Stacks Bluff Walk via Storys Creek – Ben Lomond National Park

A Rugged Climb to One of Ben Lomond’s Most Spectacular Southern Summits

The Stacks Bluff Walk via Storys Creek is one of the more demanding day walks in Ben Lomond National Park, climbing from the Storys Creek side of the mountain through eucalypt forest, scree and extensive dolerite boulder fields before reaching the high plateau and the summit of Stacks Bluff. Unlike the easier walks beginning around the Alpine Village, this route approaches Ben Lomond from the south and gives walkers a much wilder experience of the mountain. The climb is sustained, the terrain becomes increasingly rough higher on the mountain and route-finding can require care, particularly once you reach the open plateau. The reward is outstanding alpine scenery, broad views across the Fingal Valley and the dramatic southern edge of the Ben Lomond plateau.

Walk Overview

Terrain

The walk begins from the Storys Creek side of Ben Lomond and initially follows old vehicle tracks and a walking route through eucalypt forest. As you climb toward the escarpment, the terrain becomes steeper and increasingly rocky. Higher up, walkers encounter extensive scree and dolerite boulder fields before reaching the top of the escarpment near Denison Crag. From there, the route crosses more open plateau country before the final approach to Stacks Bluff. The terrain is varied and rugged, with several sections where careful foot placement and route choice are important.

Difficulty

Stacks Bluff via Storys Creek is a hard walk. The route involves a significant climb from the valley floor to the plateau, rough ground, boulder fields and exposure to alpine weather. Although some sections are relatively straightforward, the combination of distance, elevation gain and navigation means this is much more demanding than the shorter walks around the Alpine Village. Allow a full day and do not underestimate the time required to descend safely over rough terrain.

Walk Highlights

🏔️ Stacks Bluff Summit

Stacks Bluff forms part of the dramatic southern edge of the Ben Lomond plateau and is one of the park’s most impressive viewpoints. From the summit area, walkers are rewarded with broad views across the surrounding plateau and toward the valleys and farmland below. In clear weather, the sense of height and isolation is one of the highlights of the entire Ben Lomond region.

🪨 Dolerite Boulder Fields

The upper mountain is dominated by large dolerite blocks and scree, creating a rugged and distinctly alpine landscape. These boulder fields are visually spectacular but can make progress slow and tiring. Take your time, choose stable footing and avoid rushing through the rougher sections.

💧 Tranquil Tarn

The route passes near Tranquil Tarn, a small body of water surrounded by scree and rock. Its unusual setting makes it one of the more memorable features of the climb. From higher on the route, the tarn provides an attractive contrast to the otherwise rugged plateau landscape.

🌄 Fingal Valley Views

As elevation increases, the views back toward the Fingal Valley become increasingly impressive. The combination of farmland below and the rugged cliffs and plateau above gives this side of Ben Lomond a very different character from the Alpine Village approach. Clear weather makes a huge difference to the experience, so this is a walk worth saving for a good forecast.

What to Bring

• Sturdy walking boots – good grip and ankle support are useful on scree and boulders
• Map, compass or GPS – route-finding can be required
• Waterproof jacket – essential in alpine terrain
• Warm layers – temperatures can drop rapidly
• Plenty of water – carry enough for a full day
• Lunch and high-energy snacks
• Sun protection – the upper plateau is exposed
• First-aid kit
• Emergency communication device where practical

Safety

Stacks Bluff is remote enough that preparation matters:

• Tell someone your planned route and expected return time
• Check mountain weather before setting out
• Avoid the walk in poor visibility or severe wind
• Carry proper navigation equipment
• Allow plenty of daylight for the return descent
• Take care on loose scree and unstable boulders
• Carry warm and waterproof clothing even on fine days
• Turn around if weather or visibility deteriorates

Is the Walk Suitable for Children?

Generally, no for young children.

The length, sustained climb, rough boulder terrain and navigation requirements make this better suited to experienced adult walkers and capable older teenagers. Anyone attempting the walk should be confident on steep and uneven mountain terrain.

Are Dogs Allowed?

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

Getting There

The Stacks Bluff route approaches Ben Lomond from the Storys Creek area rather than from the Alpine Village. Storys Creek is reached via the roads around Rossarden in Tasmania’s north-east. From the Storys Creek area, an old vehicle track leads toward the lower slopes of Ben Lomond before the walking route continues uphill. Access conditions can change, so check current road conditions and make sure you are comfortable leaving your vehicle at the chosen starting point.

Facilities

There are no facilities on the Stacks Bluff route.

Walkers should expect:

• No toilets
• No drinking water taps
• No shelters
• No food or kiosk facilities
• Limited or unreliable mobile reception

Carry everything needed for the entire day.

Best Time to Walk

For most walkers, the warmer months provide the best chance of manageable conditions.  Clear, calm days in late spring, summer and early autumn are ideal. Winter can bring deep snow, ice and much more demanding conditions on the plateau. Experienced walkers may enjoy the route in snow, but winter dramatically increases the difficulty and navigation requirements.

Why Walk Stacks Bluff?

Stacks Bluff offers a very different Ben Lomond experience from the more accessible walks around the Alpine Village. Instead of starting high on the plateau, you climb the mountain from below, moving from forest through rocky escarpment country and eventually onto the open alpine landscape. The approach feels remote, the terrain is rugged and the views from the upper mountain can be exceptional. It is a demanding day, but that effort is exactly what gives the walk its sense of achievement.

For experienced bushwalkers wanting a serious Ben Lomond day walk away from the ski village, Stacks Bluff via Storys Creek is one of the park’s standout adventures.