The Snowy Mountains in southern New South Wales are Australia's highest peaks and the country's only genuine alpine region. Home to Mt Kosciuszko (2,228 metres, Australia's highest point), two major ski resorts, and the engineering marvel of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme, the Snowies offer world-class skiing in winter and spectacular hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing in summer.
Getting There
The Snowy Mountains are about 450 kilometres south of Sydney (roughly 5-6 hours by car) and about 200 kilometres from Canberra (2-2.5 hours). Jindabyne is the main gateway town, sitting on the shore of the lake of the same name. During ski season, shuttle buses run from Jindabyne to the ski resorts. Cooma Airport has limited services, and some visitors fly into Canberra and drive from there. The drive from Sydney via Canberra is the most common approach, with the last section through the mountains being particularly scenic.
Getting Around
In winter, most visitors base themselves in Jindabyne and take shuttle buses to the ski resorts (Thredbo is about 35 minutes, Perisher's Skitube terminal at Bullocks Flat is about 20 minutes). Shuttle services run frequently during ski season and are included in some accommodation packages. In summer, you'll need a car to access trailheads and attractions. The Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne to Thredbo and Charlotte Pass is sealed and well-maintained. The Alpine Way connects Thredbo to Khancoban on the western side - a spectacular drive through snow gum country. Be aware that some roads close in winter due to snow.
Winter: Skiing & Snowboarding
Australia's ski season runs from early June to early October, with peak conditions usually in July and August.
- Thredbo: The premier ski resort, offering the longest runs in Australia (up to 5.9km) and a drop of 672 metres. The village at the base has restaurants, bars, and accommodation. Thredbo also has a terrain park, night skiing on select dates, and excellent off-piste options for advanced skiers. Lift passes from around $170/day.
- Perisher: The largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, with over 1,200 hectares of skiable terrain across four interlinked resort areas (Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega). Access is via the Skitube, an underground train from Bullocks Flat. Lift passes from around $165/day.
- Selwyn Snow Resort: A smaller, more affordable option ideal for beginners and families. Less crowded and more relaxed.
Summer: Hiking
The Snowy Mountains are arguably even more beautiful in summer, when wildflowers carpet the alpine meadows and the trails are crowd-free:
- Mt Kosciuszko Summit Walk: The most popular walk takes you from the top of Thredbo's Kosciuszko Express Chairlift along a 6.5-kilometre elevated metal walkway to the summit of Australia's highest peak. The walk is relatively easy and the views are extraordinary. Allow 4-5 hours return. The chairlift operates year-round.
- Main Range Walk: A more challenging 22-kilometre loop that takes in Mt Kosciuszko, the Blue Lake, and the headwaters of the Snowy River. One of the best day walks in Australia.
- Thredbo Valley Track: A beautiful riverside walk (9km one way) from Thredbo Village to the Thredbo Diggings, following the Thredbo River through alpine country.
- Dead Horse Gap: A popular walk from Thredbo through snow gum forests and alpine meadows.
Jindabyne
Jindabyne is the main town and gateway to the Snowies. It sits on the shore of Lake Jindabyne, a large reservoir created by the Snowy Hydro Scheme. In winter it's a bustling base for skiers; in summer it's a quieter hub for hikers, mountain bikers, and fishing enthusiasts.
- Lake Jindabyne: Great for trout fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming in summer.
- Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery: Just outside Jindabyne, this distillery produces outstanding fruit schnapps and has a cosy cafe with mountain views.
- Mountain Biking: The Thredbo Mountain Bike Park operates in summer with chairlift-accessed downhill trails and cross-country routes.
Where to Eat
- Cuisine Restaurant & Bar: (Jindabyne): Modern Australian with a focus on local produce. The best restaurant in town. Mains $32-44.
- Takayama: (Jindabyne): Excellent Japanese in the mountains. Great ramen and sake. Mains $22-34.
- Birch: (Thredbo Village): Bistro-style dining with a great wine list and fireplace. Mains $28-42.
- Banjo Paterson Inn: (Jindabyne): A classic mountain pub with hearty meals and cold beers. Great atmosphere after a day on the slopes.
- Wildbrumby Cafe: Outstanding coffee, cakes, and schnapps tastings with mountain views.
Where to Stay
- Budget: Jindabyne YHA, Discovery Parks Jindabyne (lakeside cabins and camping).
- Mid-Range: Station Resort Jindabyne, Rydges Thredbo Alpine Hotel.
- Luxury: Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa (stunning lakeside resort between Jindabyne and Thredbo), Chateau Chalet Thredbo.
Practical Tips
- Snow Chains: Between June and October, you must carry snow chains in your vehicle when driving in the Kosciuszko National Park alpine area, even if you have a 4WD. They can be hired in Jindabyne or Cooma. - National Park Entry: Kosciuszko National Park charges $29 per vehicle per day (or $65 for an annual pass). This covers road access to both Thredbo and Perisher. - Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre: Learn about the incredible engineering of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme, one of the most complex engineering projects ever undertaken. Tours run from Cooma. - Yarrangobilly Caves: On the western side of the park, these limestone caves include guided cave tours and a natural thermal pool (27°C year-round) fed by underground springs.
AUBIS Tip
: The Snowy Mountains offer a completely different Australian experience. Use AUBIS to plan a winter ski trip or a summer hiking adventure. Add the Kosciuszko Summit Walk, lunch at Wildbrumby, and accommodation in Jindabyne to your itinerary. Combine it with a stop in Canberra for a well-rounded trip.