Snowy Mountains Highway

The Snowy Mountains Highway is a spectacular alpine road that cuts through the heart of New South Wales' Snowy Mountains region, offering travellers a journey through some of Australia's most dramatic mountain scenery. This 280-kilometre route connects the Hume Highway near Gundagai to the coast at Cooma, winding through national parks, historic towns, and high-country landscapes that change with the seasons. Whether you're chasing snow in winter, wildflowers in spring, or golden aspen leaves in autumn, this drive rewards at every turn.

Highlights & What to See

• Kosciuszko National Park: The highway runs along the park's edge, providing access to the highest peaks in Australia. Stop at Charlotte Pass or Thredbo for summer hiking to Mount Kosciuszko, or winter skiing and snowboarding.
• Yarrangobilly Caves: A hidden gem off the highway, these limestone caves feature stunning formations and a thermal pool where you can soak year-round (water stays at 27°C).
• Selwyn Snow Resort: A family-friendly ski field that's less crowded than Thredbo or Perisher, perfect for beginners and cross-country skiing.
• Historic Towns: Explore the gold-rush-era town of Adaminaby (now relocated after dam construction) and the charming village of Berridale, both offering classic country pubs and local produce.
• Scenic Lookouts: Don't miss the view from the Kiandra Lookout, where you can see the remains of a gold-mining ghost town, and the stunning alpine vistas from the Cabramurra lookout.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least a full day to drive the highway with stops, but two to three days is ideal if you want to hike, visit the caves, or ski. Break the journey overnight in Cooma, Jindabyne, or one of the historic villages. In winter, allow extra time for snow and ice on the road, and check conditions before setting out.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Jindabyne: The main gateway town to the ski fields, with excellent accommodation, dining, and water sports on Lake Jindabyne.
• Thredbo: A year-round alpine village with hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, plus the famous Kosciuszko Express chairlift.
• Cooma: The southern terminus of the highway, known for its Snowy Mountains Scheme heritage and the informative Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre.
• Tumut: A historic town on the western side of the Snowy Mountains, with trout fishing, waterfalls, and the nearby Blowering Dam.
• Canberra: About two hours north of Cooma, Australia's capital offers museums, galleries, and national institutions.

Please check official sources for current details.