Trip.
North Eastern Taz, including Jacobs ladder.
- Miles: 156
- Start: Scottsdale
- End: Beaumaris
- Time: 1 day
- Suitability: adventure, dual-sport
Jacob’s Ladder. People threw around phrases like “the most dangerous road in the world.” With its steep gravel hairpins, lack of guardrails, and sheer drops into nothingness, it sounded intense. Naturally, we had to ride it. But honestly, it’s nowhere near as terrifying as the rumours suggest, and it’s definitely not among the most dangerous roads out there.
Jacob’s Ladder is a winding, zig-zag road that climbs up to Ben Lomond’s plateau. This striking stretch is short, gravelly, and packed with sharp hairpin turns, with the steepest point hitting a 13% grade—so it’s best to take it slow and savor the drive. At the top, there’s a great lookout where you can park and wander over to the edge for an incredible view.
Located southeast of Launceston, the route takes you through Ben Lomond National Park and stunning forests. The road is gravel but firm and easy to ride. In winter, though, it can become impassable, with signs warning that snow chains are required between June and September.
