Snowy Mountains

Australia's highest mountain range in the south, offering skiing in winter, scenic hiking in summer, and access to the Snowy Mountains Scheme's alpine lakes. It provides spectacular alpine scenery and outdoor recreation year-round.

Things to do

• Skiing at Thredbo — Australia's premier ski resort with varied terrain, snow-making facilities, and a long winter season from June to August.
• Hiking to Mount Kosciuszko — Trek to Australia's highest peak (2,228 m) via the Main Range Trail for alpine views and wildflower meadows in summer.
• Lake Jindabyne water sports — Enjoy kayaking, fishing, and swimming in this major alpine lake created by the Snowy Mountains Scheme, surrounded by mountain vistas.
• Perisher Blue skiing — Access multiple ski fields connected by underground train, offering diverse runs for all skill levels during winter months.
• Snowy Mountains Scheme discovery — Visit historic dams, tunnels, and power stations that harness alpine water for irrigation and hydroelectric power across three states.
• Charlotte Pass scenic drive — Drive the highest sealed road in Australia (2,228 m) with panoramic alpine views, wildflowers, and access to walking trails.
• Corin Forest outdoor activities — Mountain biking, hiking, and skiing in winter across extensive trail networks with forest and alpine scenery.

Food to try

• Locally caught alpine trout — Fresh trout from Snowy Mountains rivers and lakes, typically grilled or pan-fried at mountain lodges and restaurants.
• Beef from high country farms — Grass-fed beef from alpine grazing properties, prepared as steaks and hearty mountain fare in regional restaurants.
• Cheese from Snowy Mountains Dairy — Artisanal cheeses made from local dairy herds, showcasing alpine pasture milk in varieties like cheddar and specialty blends.
• Warming pies and stews — Traditional meat pies and slow-cooked stews served in mountain cafes, designed to fuel skiers and hikers in cold weather.
• Wild mushroom dishes — Seasonal wild mushrooms foraged from mountain forests, featured in risottos and pasta at upscale alpine restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Book accommodation early in winter — Ski season (June-August) books out months ahead, so advance reservations for lodging are essential for reliable stays.
• Respect alpine weather and conditions — Mountain weather changes rapidly; always check forecasts, carry layers, and be prepared to adjust plans for sudden storms or snow.
• Support local conservation efforts — The Snowy Mountains alpine ecosystem is fragile; stick to marked trails, avoid picking wildflowers, and participate in Leave No Trace principles.
• Learn about Indigenous heritage — The region is traditional Country of the Ngarigo people; visit interpretive centres and acknowledge their connection to these mountains.