Snowy Mountains

Rising dramatically from the Monaro Plains, the Snowy Mountains are Australia's highest alpine playground, a realm of granite peaks, wildflower-strewn meadows, and crystal-clear rivers. This is a place where you can ski in winter, hike through wildflower-carpeted valleys in summer, and soak up a gold-rush history that still lingers in towns like Kiandra. For international visitors, the Snowies offer a quintessential Australian high-country experience that feels a world away from the coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk: The easiest climb to the continent's highest peak – a rewarding 13 km return hike from Thredbo that takes you above the tree line to panoramic views over the Main Range.
• Kosciuszko National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it's a year-round wonderland: alpine wildflowers in summer, spectacular autumn colours, and world-class skiing at Thredbo and Perisher in winter.
• Snowy River: Made famous by the poem 'The Man from Snowy River', this wild river offers great fishing, kayaking, and scenic drives along its valley.
• Yarrangobilly Caves: A network of limestone caves with stunning formations, plus a thermal pool (a constant 27°C) for a relaxing soak.
• Kiandra: A ghost town that was once a bustling gold-rush settlement; its historic buildings and cemetery offer a poignant glimpse of the past.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give the Snowies at least three to four days to truly appreciate the range of experiences. Spend your first day exploring Thredbo Village and taking the Kosciuszko walk; dedicate a second day to the caves and the Snowy River; and use a third day to drive the Alpine Way to Khancoban for stunning scenery and wildlife. If you're a skier, allow a week to make the most of the slopes and après-ski scene.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra: Australia's capital, just two hours north, offers world-class museums, galleries, and the Australian War Memorial.
• Jindabyne: The main gateway town on the shores of Lake Jindabyne, with excellent dining, accommodation, and water sports.
• Thredbo: A charming alpine village with year-round appeal – hiking in summer, skiing in winter, and a lively village atmosphere.
• Cooma: A historic town on the Snowy Mountains Highway, known for its Snowy Scheme museum and as a base for exploring the northern park.
• Khancoban: A peaceful town on the western edge of the park, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and scenic drives along the Alpine Way.

Please check official sources for current details.