Snowy Mountains Scheme

The Snowy Mountains Scheme is one of the world's most ambitious engineering feats, a sprawling hydro-electric and irrigation project carved through the rugged alpine wilderness of New South Wales. Completed in 1974, this network of dams, tunnels, and power stations transformed the region, creating a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and a fascinating chapter in Australian history. Today, visitors can explore its monumental infrastructure, learn about the multicultural workforce that built it, and soak up the dramatic scenery of the Snowy Mountains.

Highlights & What to See

• Cooma Visitors Centre – Start here for interactive exhibits on the scheme's construction, including a giant model and stories of the 100,000 workers from 30 countries.
• Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre – Located in Cooma, this centre offers a virtual tour of the scheme's tunnels and power stations, plus a chance to see real hydro-electric turbines.
• Lake Jindabyne – The scheme's largest reservoir, perfect for sailing, fishing, and lakeside walks. The lake views against the backdrop of the Snowy Mountains are breathtaking.
• Kosciuszko National Park – The scheme is intertwined with this alpine park. Drive to Charlotte Pass or take the chairlift at Thredbo for walks to Australia's highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko.
• Eucumbene Dam – The scheme's largest dam, with an impressive spillway and a visitor lookout. The surrounding area is prime for trout fishing.
• Cabramurra – Australia's highest town (1,488 m), built for scheme workers. It offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's engineering history.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least two full days to appreciate the scheme's scale and the surrounding national park. Spend day one in Cooma at the visitors centres and touring the nearby dams and tunnels. On day two, head into Kosciuszko National Park for a hike or scenic drive, stopping at Lake Jindabyne and Cabramurra. If you're keen on fishing or longer walks, add an extra day. The scheme is best visited from November to April when the alpine roads are clear of snow.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Thredbo – A lively alpine village with year-round activities, from skiing in winter to mountain biking and hiking in summer.
• Jindabyne – The main lakeside town, offering accommodation, restaurants, and water sports on the lake.
• Kosciuszko National Park – Explore the vast alpine wilderness, with trails for all abilities and the iconic summit walk.
• Cooma – The historic gateway town, with charming heritage buildings and the main information centres for the scheme.
• Canberra – The national capital is about a 1.5-hour drive north, perfect for adding a dose of politics and culture to your trip.
• Snowy River – Follow the river downstream from the scheme for white-water rafting and scenic gorges.

Please check official sources for current details.