Mount Baw Baw

Mount Baw Baw is a laid-back alpine resort in Victoria’s High Country, a two-hour drive from Melbourne. Unlike the glitzy resorts of the Snowy Mountains, Baw Baw offers a rustic, family-friendly escape with genuine snow gums, cross-country trails, and a relaxed village atmosphere that feels like a secret shared among locals.

Highlights & What to See

• Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding: Mount Baw Baw’s downhill runs are perfect for beginners and intermediates, with gentle slopes and a terrain park for freestylers. The resort’s small size means short lift lines and a more intimate mountain experience.
• Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing: The resort is a hub for Nordic skiing, with over 35 km of groomed trails winding through snow gum forests and alpine meadows. Snowshoe hire is available for exploring the silent winter landscape.
• Baw Baw National Park Walks: In summer, hike the Australian Alps Walking Track or the short boardwalk to Mushroom Rocks, a bizarre formation of granite tors. Wildflowers bloom in December and January, and you might spot wombats and echidnas.
• Mount Baw Baw Summit: Take the chairlift or hike to the 1,564-metre summit for panoramic views of the Latrobe Valley and, on clear days, the distant peaks of the Snowy Mountains.
• Village Atmosphere: The compact village has a few cafes, a pub, and ski-in/ski-out accommodation. It’s a place where you’ll bump into the same faces on the slopes and around the fireplace—perfect for a low-key alpine getaway.

Suggested Time to Spend

Mount Baw Baw is best experienced over a weekend (two days). Spend one day on the slopes or trails and the other exploring the national park or simply relaxing in the village. A day trip from Melbourne is feasible but feels rushed; staying overnight lets you enjoy the après-ski vibe and the starry skies. In summer, a full day is enough for a few walks and a picnic.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Walhalla: A historic gold-mining town 45 minutes away, with a narrow-gauge railway, underground mine tours, and charming heritage buildings.
• Baw Baw Village & Mount St Gwinear: Just 20 minutes from Mount Baw Baw, this smaller ski area offers cross-country and downhill options, plus a snowplay area for kids.
• Noojee: A 40-minute drive through towering mountain ash forests, known for the Noojee Trestle Bridge and the Toorongo Falls walking track.
• Yarra Valley: On the way back to Melbourne, stop at the Yarra Valley for wineries, gourmet produce, and hot air balloon rides.

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