Perisher Valley

Perisher Valley is the heart of Australia's largest alpine resort, a snowy playground in Kosciuszko National Park that transforms into a skier's and snowboarder's paradise each winter. With its high-altitude location and reliable snow cover, Perisher offers a vibrant village atmosphere, world-class slopes, and a surprising range of summer activities when the snow melts. Whether you're carving down groomed runs, exploring cross-country trails, or simply soaking in the crisp mountain air, Perisher Valley delivers an authentic alpine experience just a few hours from Canberra.

Highlights & What to See

• Skiing & Snowboarding: Perisher boasts over 1,200 hectares of terrain across four interconnected resorts – Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega – with runs for all abilities and a modern lift system.
• Perisher Blue Cow: Take the Skitube from Bullocks Flat to reach Blue Cow, known for its high-altitude snow reliability and stunning views over the Main Range.
• Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the extensive network of groomed trails, including the popular route to Charlotte Pass, which offers a serene backcountry experience.
• Snow Tubing & Tobogganing: The Snowy Ride and toboggan park at Perisher Valley provide family-friendly fun away from the main slopes.
• Summer Hiking & Mountain Biking: When the snow clears, the valley becomes a hub for hiking to alpine lakes, wildflower spotting, and tackling the Perisher Mountain Bike Trail.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least a full day to experience Perisher's slopes, but two to three days allows you to explore the different sectors and enjoy the après-ski scene. If you're visiting in summer, a half-day hike or bike ride is enough to appreciate the alpine landscape. For a complete ski holiday, consider a week-long stay to take advantage of the resort's extensive terrain and nearby accommodation in Jindabyne.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Jindabyne: The main gateway town on Lake Jindabyne, offering accommodation, dining, and water sports in summer.
• Thredbo: A rival ski resort with a lively village, challenging runs, and the scenic Kosciuszko Walk.
• Charlotte Pass: Australia's highest resort village, accessible only by oversnow transport, with a more secluded and serene vibe.
• Kosciuszko National Park: Explore the park's alpine trails, including the walk to Mt Kosciuszko, Australia's highest peak.
• Cooma: A historic town on the Snowy Mountains Highway, ideal for a pit stop or learning about the Snowy Mountains Scheme.

Please check official sources for current details.