Charlotte Pass

Charlotte Pass is Australia's highest resort village, sitting at 1,765 metres in the heart of the Snowy Mountains. This alpine hideaway offers a true mountain escape, with snow-capped peaks, crisp air, and a relaxed village atmosphere. Accessible only via oversnow transport in winter, it feels wonderfully remote, yet is a stone's throw from Kosciuszko National Park's best hiking and skiing.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk – The highest point in Australia is a moderate 13 km return hike from the chairlift, with panoramic views over the Main Range.
• Skiing & Snowboarding – Charlotte Pass has uncrowded slopes suited to intermediate and advanced skiers, with long runs and reliable natural snow.
• Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing – Explore the silent backcountry on marked trails; guided tours are available for beginners.
• Main Range Walk – In summer, this challenging but rewarding walk traverses alpine heath and glacial lakes, with wildflowers in December.
• Charlotte Pass Village – A tiny, car-free hamlet with a pub, café, and cosy lodges; perfect for a hot chocolate après-ski.

Suggested Time to Spend

For a ski trip, plan at least 3–4 days to settle in and explore the diverse runs. In summer, 2–3 days allows for a summit hike and a day on the Main Range Walk. Day-trippers from Thredbo or Jindabyne can manage a long day, but oversnow transport limits flexibility—staying overnight is highly recommended to soak up the alpine atmosphere.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Thredbo – 20 minutes away by road (then oversnow), this lively resort has more dining and après options.
• Perisher Valley – Australia's largest ski resort, with extensive terrain and a vibrant base village.
• Jindabyne – The main gateway town on Lake Jindabyne, with accommodation, shops, and water sports in summer.
• Kosciuszko National Park – Beyond the resort, explore Yarrangobilly Caves, Snowy River, and the Jagungal Wilderness.
• Cooma – A historic town on the Snowy Mountains Highway, perfect for a pit stop and the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre.

Please check official sources for current details.