Mt Baw Baw

Perched in the southern reaches of the Great Dividing Range, Mt Baw Baw is a compact alpine playground that punches well above its weight. It’s a place where snow gums twist into ghostly shapes, the air smells of eucalyptus and crisp powder, and the pace of life slows to a ski-lift glide. While it’s one of Victoria’s smallest ski resorts, its lack of crowds and unpretentious charm make it a favourite for families, beginners, and anyone who wants to escape the commercial buzz of bigger resorts. In summer, the mountain transforms into a hiking haven, with wildflower-strewn trails and sweeping views across the Latrobe Valley.

Highlights & What to See

• Ski & Snowboard the Baw Baw Plateau – With 15 runs served by seven lifts, the snowfields are perfect for intermediates and beginners. The terrain park adds a dose of fun for freestylers.
• Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing – Over 20 km of groomed trails wind through snow gums and alpine heath, offering a serene alternative to downhill skiing.
• Baw Baw Village – A small, relaxed base with accommodation, a bistro, and a bar. It’s the kind of place where you’ll bump into the same faces on the chairlift.
• Summer Hikes to Mount St Phillack – A 6 km return walk leads to the highest point on the plateau (1567 m), with panoramic views and carpets of snow daisies in January.
• Baw Baw National Park – The mountain sits within this protected area, home to the rare Baw Baw frog and ancient snow gums. Keep an eye out for lyrebirds.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a day trip from Melbourne (2.5 hours’ drive) or a weekend stay. If you’re skiing, a full day gives you time to cover all the runs and enjoy a leisurely lunch at the village. For a deeper experience, spend two nights: one day on the slopes, another snowshoeing or hiking. In summer, a single day is enough to tackle a few walks and soak in the views, but an overnight stay lets you catch sunrise over the valley.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Walhalla – A beautifully preserved gold-rush town in a steep valley, with a historic railway and eerie Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine.
• Yarra Valley – Victoria’s premier wine region, just an hour’s drive north. Perfect for a post-snow tasting of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
• Baw Baw National Park (other sections) – Explore the park’s more remote areas, such as the Thomson River valley and the Mushroom Rocks, a surreal granite boulder field.
• Mount Erica – A challenging day-hike from the Baw Baw car park, leading to a fire tower with 360-degree views of the high country.
• Latrobe Valley – The gateway towns of Moe and Morwell offer practical services and a glimpse into Victoria’s coal-mining history.

Please check official sources for current details.