The stunning alpine scenery of the Snowy Mountains is proof that Australia is not all about red deserts and gorgeous beaches. In this region enjoy skiing or snowboarding in winter and hiking and camping in summer. Don't miss the chance to visit the summit of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. On your way to the mountains, stop at rustic villages, glacial lakes, museums and vineyards.
Despite being just a 3-hour drive away from Australia’s capital Canberra, the Snowy Mountains seem like a world away. Get a vehicle pass along the scenic Alpine Way and drive through the impressive Mount Kosciuszko National Park. Its wilderness stretches from the Australian Capital Territory into New South Wales and Victoria.
In winter, hire snow chains and wintersports gear in Jindabyne and drive to the ski villages of Thredbo or Perisher. Go tobogganing, bobsledding, skiing and snowboarding. Afterwards, sit by the fire in a chalet with an après ski drink of locally produced schnapps or wine.
In summer, explore a snow gum forest or wildflower-covered plains on a mountain bike or horseback. Catch trout in the lake at Jindabyne. In Thredbo, get trail maps from the visitor centre and go for a hike. If you are aiming for Kosciuszko’s summit, you can do the hike in a day if you take the 14.3-kilometre (8.9-mile) return trip starting at the Kosciuszko Express chairlift at Thredbo. Visit the Yarrangobilly limestone caves and bathe in its thermal pool. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Murray 1 hydroelectric power station with its visitor centre in Khancoban.
In the foothills of the Snowy Mountains, step inside the Pioneer Women’s Hut Museum in Tumbarumba. Learn about the resourcefulness of mothers in the early period of rural settlement. Long before their arrival, the Wiradjuri Aboriginal people also found ingenious ways to survive in this rugged landscape. As you follow the Alpine Way out, stop in Tumut for an Aboriginal Discovery Tour to taste bush foods, learn to weave and hear the origin stories from their Dreamtime.
