Snowy Mountains

Straddling the border of New South Wales and Victoria, the Snowy Mountains offer a dramatic alpine landscape that feels a world away from the coastal heat. This is Australia’s highest mountain range, crowned by Mount Kosciuszko, and it transforms from wildflower-strewn meadows in summer to a skier’s paradise in winter. The region is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking, mountain biking, trout fishing, and snow sports drawing visitors year-round.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk: The easiest route to Australia’s highest peak, a well-graded 13 km return walk from Thredbo Top Station offering panoramic views of the Main Range.
• Kosciuszko National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with diverse ecosystems, from snow gum forests to alpine herbfields. In summer, the wildflowers are spectacular.
• Thredbo & Perisher: Australia’s premier ski resorts. Thredbo is known for its lively village and long runs; Perisher is the largest, with four interconnected resorts.
• Snowy Hydro Scheme: An engineering marvel that diverts water through tunnels and power stations. The visitor centre at Cooma explains this vast project’s history and impact.
• Yarrangobilly Caves: A series of limestone caves with stunning formations, plus a thermal pool for a soak after exploring.
• Jindabyne: The main gateway town, set on a large lake perfect for sailing, kayaking, and trout fishing. The lakefront offers lovely walks and dining.

Suggested Time to Spend

With at least three to four days you can experience the highlights. Dedicate one day to a summit walk or scenic chairlift ride at Thredbo, another to exploring the caves and the Snowy Hydro Scheme, and a third to skiing or snow play if visiting in winter. If you’re keen on multi-day hikes, the Australian Alps Walking Track traverses the region; allow a week for a serious section. Summer and autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling, while winter (June–September) is peak ski season.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra: The national capital, about two hours north, with world-class museums, galleries, and Parliament House.
• Cooma: A historic town on the Monaro Plains, known for its Snowy Scheme museum and as a southern gateway to the mountains.
• Murray River Region: Head west to the upper Murray, where you can explore quaint towns like Corryong and go paddling or fishing.
• South Coast NSW: Combine mountains with beach time by driving east to Batemans Bay or Narooma for coastal walks and seafood.
• Alpine National Park (Vic): The Victorian side of the Alps offers similar alpine experiences, including the famous Bogong High Plains.

Please check official sources for current details.