Ben Lomond has woken up from her summer hibernation this week thanks to the 1 in 100 year snow storm which blanketed Launceston. Tassie snow lovers and those who would normally visit mainland or New Zealand snow resorts are desperate for their annual snow fix. With the first winter system running weeks behind the regular season start, this week’s big freeze was the one that we have all been hanging out for.
The mountain started from rock and shrubbery on Monday, things are very much whiter than what they were a week ago. However with the wind at Antarctic strengths for much of the week this has meant what did fall hasn’t stuck enough to allow all the slopes to open.
Kate Williams from Alpine Enterprises has been keeping the winter faithful updated on their instagram channel this week as the system moved through. Today it has been confirmed that tomorrow will be the first day of lift operations on the mountain. However the top slopes don’t yet have enough snow to operate the lifts safely.
For those snow lovers making their first pilgrimage to Ben Lomond for a ski tomorrow, the beginner lift Bass will be humming. To stay up to date on what’s running, visit the Alpine Enterprises Website, www.alpineenterprises.com.au
Ben Lomond Snow Sports are ready for their biggest weekend of the season tomorrow with transport, hire and food available for all who arrive. Visit their webpage for the latest prices and details. www.skibenlomond.com.au
Visitors are reminded that vehicles are required to carry chains past the lower car park. The snow sports shuttle service is available for those groups without chains from the lower car park. Please follow all signage regarding the fitting of chains on your vehicle. If in doubt of your driving ability, please catch the shuttle.
For the latest road conditions, phone toe PWS update on 0429646557.
Much respect has to be given to Alpine Enterprises and Ben Lomond Snow Sports and the countless lodges who despite the challenges to put together COVID19 Safety Plans, have been able to find a way through and operate this season. Importantly, please be considerate of the changes which have been put in place for our safety.
If you are at all unwell, stay home and get tested. www.coronaviris.tas.gov.au
A large crowd is expected to hit the slopes and we are asking all visitors to be considerate of PWS staff assisting across the mountain, and staff in the ticket office, hire and cafe and operating lifts. Please also be courteous of each other.The weather forecast next week is looking promising for further falls which should consolidate the snow cover and hopefully allow more lifts and terrain to open up.