Who’s seen this road but never really knew where it was? Jacob’s Ladder — not the singletrack climb in Smithfield — is one of the most iconic gravel roads in Australia, and come February 16, 2025, the Launceston Mountain Bike Club is hosting a race UP it!
The King and Queen of the Mountain is returning to Ben Lomond for what could be the shortest but also one of the most challenging gravel races we know of.
Starting at the Ben Lomond Base cafe the course is only 17.7km long, but gains a whopping 1,050m of elevation!

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“This is not your average race,” said Matt Patten, Race Director for the Launceston Mountain Bike Club. “The King and Queen of the Mountain race is an unforgettable challenge, not only for the incredible views and variety of terrain but for the sense of achievement that comes with conquering such a unique course. From the lush bushland to the rugged alpine environment, this race is truly one of a kind in Australia.”
Climbing Jacob’s Ladder
In just under 20km, riders will traverse stunning eucalyptus bushland, Australia’s largest boulder field, and of course, the six iconic hairpin corners of Jacob’s Ladder to the finish at Ben Lomond Alpine Ski Village.

It’s an average grade of about 6%, maxing out over 15%! Did we mention it’s all gravel? While you’re suffering your way up, be sure to look around as this is the highest road in Tasmania, and the views over the wide-open alpine plateau are spec-freakin-tacular!
Last year’s winner, former World Tour roadie and all-around legend Richie Port, finished in 50:42! Better start doing those hill repeats.
To sweeten the pie, there’s $500 AUD in cold hard cash up for the first male and female to cross the line, AND $300 AUD for the first male and female in both the Junior and Masters (40+) categories. For local riders, the first 10 riders from each Tassie mountain bike club will receive free entries — so get after it because these spaces will fill up fast.

Who can enter, and where do you sign up?
The Launceston Mountain Bike Club says the event is open to all bikes, from gravel and mountain bikes to roadies and even e-Biker — though e-Bikers won’t be in the running for the overall King and Queen of the Mountain.
After the suffering is over, make your way back down to the Ben Lomond Base cafe, where a BBQ and cold drinks will be waiting.
Entries are open now! You can find more info on the Ben Lomond Alpine Resort website, or click here to secure your spot.
Photos: Scott Mattern / @scott_mattern
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