Snowy Mountains Scheme

Stretching across the high country of New South Wales, the Snowy Mountains Scheme is one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century. This vast hydro-electric and irrigation network, built between 1949 and 1974, transformed the landscape and powered Australia's post-war development. Today, visitors can explore its tunnels, dams, and power stations while soaking up the alpine scenery of Kosciuszko National Park. It’s a fascinating blend of industrial heritage and natural grandeur.

Highlights & What to See

• Visit the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre in Cooma for interactive exhibits on the scheme's construction and the multicultural workforce that built it.
• Tour the Tumut 2 and 3 power stations deep inside mountains – a guided journey through underground caverns that still hum with energy.
• Drive over the Murray 1 and Murray 2 dams to see the sheer scale of the concrete walls and the turquoise reservoirs they hold.
• Hike or cycle the Alpine Way between Thredbo and Khancoban, passing through the scheme’s aqueducts and tunnels with panoramic views.
• Stop at the Cabramurra township, Australia’s highest permanently inhabited town, built for scheme workers and offering a glimpse into life at altitude.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least two full days to appreciate the scheme’s scale. Start with the Discovery Centre in Cooma (half a day), then drive the Alpine Way loop, stopping at key dams and lookouts. A third day allows for a guided underground tour and a short walk in Kosciuszko National Park. The scheme is best visited from November to April when roads are snow-free.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cooma – the gateway town with historic streets and the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre.
• Thredbo – alpine village for hiking, mountain biking, and year-round mountain activities.
• Jindabyne – lakefront town perfect for water sports and as a base for exploring the high country.
• Kosciuszko National Park – Australia’s highest peak and stunning alpine walks, including the Main Range track.
• Khancoban – small town at the western edge of the scheme, with fishing and camping by the reservoir.

Please check official sources for current details.