When people think of Australia, they think of sun-kissed beaches, red deserts and lush rainforests. But Australia has alpine regions too that offer skiing, snowboarding and stunning winter landscapes. If you’re planning a winter escape, there are many places to experience snow in winter from the mountainous regions of New South Wales and Victoria to the south of Tasmania. Whether you’re looking for a day trip, a scenic drive or a full ski season, Australia has plenty of snow resorts and ski fields to get amongst.
Contents
1. Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
The Snowy Mountains, or “The Snowies”, are the most famous alpine region in Australia. This popular spot is home to Kosciuszko National Park, the highest peak in Australia. The region has several well-known ski resorts:
- Perisher – The biggest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, with terrain parks, ski slopes and all sorts of snow activities for all levels.
- Thredbo – A pretty alpine village with views, snow trip and a great spot to ski.
- Charlotte Pass – Known for its reliable snow, it’s a great spot to get away from the crowds.
- Selwyn Snow Resort – A family friendly snow resort, great for beginners and those who just want to have some snow fun.
Taking a snow tour through the Snowy Mountains is a great way to see the region and have guided access to the best ski slopes and snow activities. The Australian ski season is from June to early October, with the most snow in July and August. The area gets consistent snowfalls so there’s plenty of snow for skiers and snowboarders.
2. Victoria’s High Country
Victoria has some of the best alpine resorts in Australia, located in the Alpine National Park. Some of the most popular ones are:
- Mount Buller – A snow community only 3 hours from Melbourne. This alpine village has hot chocolates, great food and plenty of snow for a snowy adventure.
- Falls Creek – A popular spot for cross-country skiing, with panoramic views and terrain parks for all levels.
- Mount Hotham – Famous for its heaviest snowfall, advanced skiers will love its challenging ski slopes and altitude snow.
- Lake Mountain – A day trip from Melbourne, great for snowshoeing trips, tobogganing and making snow angels.
If you want to make the mosadventure wonderlandt of your visit, book a Melbourne snow trip to Victoria’s High Country. These trips often include transport, accommodation and guided snow activities so it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy the winter season.
Victoria’s alpine snowfall is some of the most consistent in Australia, with resorts getting inches of snow during the colder months. Winter is an adventure wonderland with many ski resorts for all levels of skiers.
3. Tasmania
Tasmania’s mountains get alpine snow in the colder months at:
- Ben Lomond National Park – Tasmania’s ski resort, with multiple ski fields and snow activities.
- Mount Field National Park – Great for a light dusting of snow and scenic drives through alpine plateaus.
Tasmania’s mild winters are perfect if you want a winter escape without extreme cold. In the warmer months these snow spots turn into hiking and rock climbing hotspots.
4. Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Namadgi National Park in the ACT gets occasional dustings of snow, especially in the higher elevations. It’s not a major ski resort but a beautiful spot for wilderness adventures, winter walks and a snow day within walking distance of Canberra.
5. South Australia and Western Australia
Snow is super rare in these southern regions but you can get a light dusting at:
- Mount Lofty in South Australia
- Stirling Range in Western Australia
These spots don’t have ski slopes but are a great opportunity to experience snow play in unexpected parts of Australia.
When to See Snow
The Australian snow season is June to October, with the most snow in July and August. If you’re planning a winter getaway make sure to check average temps and snowfall before you book. Resorts like Perisher and Falls Creek have manufactured snow so skiers can have optimal conditions all season. If you’re driving to alpine parks, snow chains are essential especially during heavy snowfall. Resorts have ski-in and ski-out accommodations, so it is a hassle-free snowy adventure.
Australia may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of snow destinations but it has so many ski resorts, snowshoeing trips and wilderness adventures. Whether you want an adventure wonderland or just a dose of snow play, Australia’s alpine regions have something for every snow lover!
FAQ
Does it snow in Australia?
Yes! Australia snows in winter, in its higher alpine regions. The southern states of NSW, Victoria and Tasmania get the most snow.
What’s the best ski resort in Australia?
It depends on what you like. Perisher is the biggest, Thredbo has the highest slopes, Mount Buller is the most accessible and Falls Creek is good for families and all levels of skiers.
When should I visit the Australian snowfields?
June to October is the best time to visit, with most snowfall in July and August.
Can I see snow in Australia without skiing?
Yes! Many snow resorts, like Lake Mountain, Mount Field and Charlotte Pass offer snowshoeing, tobogganing and scenic snow activities so it’s a great snow day.
What should I pack for a snow trip in Australia?
Warm clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, beanie and sunglasses. If you’re skiing, rental gear is available at most ski fields. After a long scenic drive, relax with a meal or hot chocolates in an alpine village for a magic day.
