Adaminaby

Perched on the shores of Lake Eucumbene, Adaminaby is a charming high-country town that serves as a gateway to the Snowy Mountains. Famous for its trout fishing and as the home of the Big Trout, this former gold-mining settlement offers a relaxed, authentic slice of Australian alpine life. The town was relocated in the 1950s to make way for the Snowy Hydro scheme, and its history is palpable in the local museum and the submerged remnants of the original settlement that emerge when lake levels drop.

Highlights & What to See

• Big Trout – Snap a selfie with Australia’s largest trout, a 10-metre fibreglass sculpture that celebrates the region’s fishing culture.
• Lake Eucumbene – A vast, man-made lake perfect for trout fishing, kayaking, and boating. In dry years, explore the eerie ruins of the old town that reappear from the depths.
• Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre – Dive into the engineering marvel of the Snowy Mountains Scheme with interactive exhibits and panoramic views of the dam.
• Adaminaby Museum – Housed in the original Snowy Mountains Authority cottage, this museum tells the story of the town’s relocation and the hydro project.
• Providore and Cafés – Sample local trout, cheeses, and wines at the town’s artisan food shops, a highlight for food-focused travellers.

Suggested Time to Spend

A day trip from Cooma or Jindabyne is enough to see the main sights and enjoy a meal, but to fully appreciate the lake and fishing, plan for an overnight stay. Two days allow you to explore the lake by boat, visit the discovery centre, and take a short hike in the nearby Kosciuszko National Park. The town is compact, so you can easily pace your visit with a relaxed lunch and a stroll.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cooma – The Snowy Mountains hub, 40 minutes north, with the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre and historic streets.
• Jindabyne – A lively lakeside town with water sports, dining, and access to ski resorts in winter.
• Kosciuszko National Park – Australia’s highest peak, offering hiking, wildflowers in summer, and skiing in winter.
• Snowy Mountains Highway – A scenic drive through alpine landscapes, connecting Adaminaby to Tumut and the western slopes.
• Yarrangobilly Caves – Limestone caves with guided tours and a thermal pool, about an hour’s drive west.

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