If you missed my last post about Jacobs Ladder, go back and check that out. We had ascended this mad road with six switchbacks the day before, but it was far too foggy and we didn't see a thing. This particular morning though was cold, clear and bright, and we were up the Ladder before anyone else.
This time, however, we could see! It definitely made it less scary, even though it's probably the most dangerous road in Australia. We were so glad to be up early too as there was no one to pass on the track which makes it even scarier!!!
The road has six switchbacks which are thrilling to drive and allow for the most amazing views. To be honest it wasn't the most switchbacks we have ever done nor the highest road - Morocco last year was twice as high, far longer and way scarier, but still, this was definitely worth a diversion!!
I never understand why people don't get up early for these kinds of things but I'm glad they don't. We had it to ourselves for two hours and would even walk to the summit which I'll write about in a later post.
There's a great look out at the top where I filmed Jamie going down and up another time. It's a bit shaky but I think I have enough for YouTube. I've been wanting to do a short film for a while so this might just be the content we were after.
Being summer tons of alpine flowers were our which was lovely. We even frightened a rock wallaby with his very fluffy shaggy coat, though he was too fast and too shy for a photo.
For those interested, Jamie had it in low gear all the way up and we had plenty of grunt thanks to the TD5 turbo. The TD5 was the last proper Landie engine and with some mapping and a bigger intercooler she really pulls even with all the weight.
By 11 am there were more cars coming up the mountain. In summer it's accessible by 2wd though your wits about you. I honestly don't know how people do it on ice and snow in the winter. It gets so cold in some parts of Tassie that even a waterfall in the nearby valley can freeze.
Obviously none of the photos truly do it justice but I hope you get a sense of this beauty of a place.
I'm sorry if I haven't replied to many of your comments but I will catch up with you all when I get back. So much of Tassie has no reception so I'm often drafting these in notes and quickly loading photos and scheduling when I get to a town. It does mean that some are out of sequence but I don't suppose it matters a great deal!
With Love,
Are you on HIVE yet? Earn for writing! Referral link for FREE account here
You can check out this post and your own profile on the map. Be part of the Worldmappin Community and join our Discord Channel to get in touch with other travelers, ask questions or just be updated on our latest features.
Wow! This sounds epic adventure! It sounds like you had an amazing time driving the Jacobs Ladder. I can only imagine how incredible the views were, especially being up there before anyone else. It must have been so peaceful and serene.
I'm not surprised you found Morocco's roads scarier! I've heard some crazy things about driving there. But still, six switchbacks on a mountain road like that sounds pretty intense! I can only imagine how thrilling it was.
I totally agree with you about getting up early. It's the best way to avoid crowds and really soak in the atmosphere. Plus, the sunrise views are usually unbeatable.
It's great that you're planning to do a short film about your experience. I'm looking forward to seeing it! The footage of Jamie driving up and down sounds like it could be really cool.
I'm not surprised you saw some wildlife. Tasmania is known for its amazing biodiversity. It's a shame you didn't get a photo of the rock wallaby, but it sounds like it was a pretty memorable encounter.
I love that you're using a Land Rover for your adventures! They're built for this kind of terrain. And it's cool that you've done some modifications to improve its performance.
I know what you mean about the reception issues. It's frustrating, but it's part of the experience, I guess. I'm looking forward to seeing more of your photos and hearing about your other adventures in Tasmania.
Keep exploring, 𝑅𝒾𝓋𝑒𝓇𝒻𝓁𝑜𝓌𝓈!
Wow, it is so amazing no that there is no fog. I agree, it would be a lot less scary, but still to be respected for sure. I bet those in a 2wd have a heck of a time making it up that road.
Cool as, I had never even heard of this one
Yeah it's a great drive and some nice hikes at the top. Worth it next time you're in Tassie.