While Australia may be better known for its sun-drenched beaches and vast outback landscapes, the country also has its fair share of winter wonderlands.
Between the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales, Mount Wellington in Tasmania and the Victorian High Country, there are plenty of world-class, snow-covered landscapes where you can partake in various snow-based activities.
But which are the most notable destinations to visit?
In this article, we’ll attempt to answer that question by reviewing some of the best places this winter to see snow in Australia.
From snow-capped mountains to romantic alpine villages, these destinations provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s frosty beauty. So grab your skis and your warmest attire and brace yourself for a magnificent, albeit cold, adventure sports experience!
(To make it easier for you, we have broken down the states into different sections).
Where To See Snow in Victoria
If you want to see snow in Victoria, here are two very good places to visit:
Falls Creek
Nestled in the Victorian High Country, Falls Creek is one of Australia’s premier snow destinations.
Known for its breathtaking alpine landscapes, pristine snowfields, and a wide array of winter activities, Falls Creek offers a remarkable combination of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation.
Just 350 kilometres northeast of Melbourne, it is easily accessible, making it a popular choice for local and international visitors. The resort village sits at an elevation of 1,600 meters, ensuring consistent snowfall and excellent skiing conditions throughout the winter season.
One of the main highlights of Falls Creek is its extensive ski terrain, catering to all levels of expertise. From beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders, plenty of trails and slopes suit every skill level. The resort boasts over 90 runs, ranging from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging black diamond runs for the more experienced thrill-seekers.
Additionally, the ski school at Falls Creek offers lessons and programs for all ages, allowing beginners to learn the basics or improve their skills under the guidance of professional instructors.
As well as skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing. It takes place over 65 kilometres of groomed trails that wind through stunning snow-covered landscapes, providing a unique and serene way to experience the beauty of the alpine surroundings. Another popular activity is snowshoeing, which takes visitors off the beaten path and immerses them in the tranquillity of the winter wilderness.
For those seeking more of an adrenaline rush, Falls Creek provides thrilling snow tubing, tobogganing, and snowmobile experiences. These activities are perfect for families and groups, offering laughter-filled moments and unforgettable memories in the snow.
Mount Hotham
Mount Hotham is another exceptional snow location in the Victorian High Country.
Perched at an altitude of 1,750 meters, it offers breathtaking alpine vistas, superb skiing and snowboarding opportunities, and a vibrant winter atmosphere that attracts snow enthusiasts in their droves.
Situated about a 4.5-hour drive from Melbourne, its gorgeous village is nestled atop the mountain, providing ski-in, ski-out convenience and a charming alpine atmosphere.
What many experienced skiers and snowboarders love about Mount Hotham is its diverse and often challenging ski terrain. Overall, the resort boasts in excess of 320 hectares of skiable terrain, featuring more than 80 runs that cater to all skill levels.
From gentle beginner slopes to steep and exhilarating black diamond runs, Mount Hotham offers something for everyone. The resort’s advanced terrain also includes challenging chutes, glades, and off-piste areas, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience for those seeking a thrill.
Mount Hotham’s snow conditions are exceptional, with an average annual snowfall of around three metres. The resort’s high elevation ensures consistent snow cover, and the snow quality is often praised for its dryness and powder-like texture. The ski season typically runs from June to October, offering an extended period for visitors to enjoy the snow-covered slopes.
Like with Falls Creek, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular activities that allow visitors to venture off-piste and discover hidden corners of the mountain.
Should you want a break from the slopes, Mount Hotham possesses a vibrant après-ski scene. The village is home to a range of restaurants, bars, and cafes, where visitors can indulge in delicious cuisine, warm up by the fire, or enjoy live music and entertainment. The atmosphere is usually lively and convivial, creating a sense of camaraderie among snow enthusiasts.
Where To See Snow in Tasmania
Should Tasmania be your preferred destination to see snow, check out the following places:
Cradle Mountain
The picturesque wilderness of Tasmania, particularly Cradle Mountain, offers a unique and captivating snow experience in the heart of Australia’s southernmost state.
Situated within the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, it forms part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The region showcases a dramatic alpine environment with ancient forests, glacial lakes, and rugged mountain ranges that create a breathtaking backdrop for winter activities.
While Cradle Mountain may not have the extensive ski resorts found on the mainland, its unique charm lies in its serene and untouched snow experiences. Indeed, many people come here for tranquillity, adventure, and a chance to witness the ethereal beauty of snow-covered peaks.
The snow season at Cradle Mountain typically runs from June to September, with occasional falls transforming the landscape into a winter paradise. At this time, snowshoeing becomes very popular as people take to exploring the snowy terrain at their own pace. The park offers a range of well-marked trails that provide ample opportunities to immerse oneself in the stunning natural beauty and experience the solitude of the winter wilderness.
If you’d rather not venture out alone, guided winter hikes are available, enabling you to trek through the snow-clad landscapes while learning about the park’s unique flora, fauna, and geological features. These guided tours provide a deeper understanding of the region’s natural history and offer a fascinating educational experience.
It is also a terrific place to visit if you are into photography. The snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and misty valleys create a surreal and captivating landscape that can be perfectly captured on camera.
Ben Lomond
Nestled in the northeastern part of Tasmania, Ben Lomond is a spectacular snow destination that offers breathtaking alpine scenery and exhilarating winter activities.
Located 50 kilometres southeast of Launceston, it is an area renowned for its lofty peaks, snow-covered slopes, and diverse terrain. The mountain reaches an elevation of 1,570 metres and is popular with skiers and snowboarders. Its lofty position contributes to colder temperatures and favourable snow conditions, allowing visitors to enjoy quality skiing and snowboarding experiences.
To get to the top, visitors can take a scenic chairlift ride to soak in panoramic views of the snow-clad mountain range and the surrounding valleys. The chairlift provides a unique perspective on the alpine environment and is a popular attraction for sightseers and nature enthusiasts.
If you would prefer to stay on ground level, there are lots of snowshoeing trails to explore.
Where To See Snow in New South Wales
If New South Wales is where you would like to go to see snow, then we recommend heading to these destinations:
Perisher
Situated within the bosom of the Snowy Mountains, Perisher is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also Australia’s premier snow destination.
A popular day trip destination for people in Canberra, which is a two-hour drive away, and a long weekend getaway for Sydneysiders willing to embark on a five-hour drive, the resort encompasses four interconnected ski areas – Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega.
Collectively, they provide an extensive range of ski runs and trails to cater to all skill levels, making it
an ideal destination for everyone from beginners and families to experienced skiers and snowboarders.
All up, Perisher comprises more than 1,200 hectares of skiable terrain and 100 kilometres of groomed trails. The resort also offers a diverse range of slopes and ski areas that are interconnected by a network of lifts, allowing visitors to easily explore the expansive terrain and access a variety of slopes throughout the resort.
A great thing about this resort is that to maintain reliable snow cover and excellent snow conditions, it utilises state-of-the-art snowmaking technology that supplements the natural snowfall.
Additionally, there is a children’s play area and a wide range of ski and snowboard schools at Perisher which offer lessons and programmes for all ages and skill levels. They allow beginners to learn the basics or improve their technique under the guidance of experienced instructors.
As you would expect, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular activities, as is tubing and night skiing, while the bars, restaurants and nightclubs will provide you with just as much fun as the snow will.
Thredbo
Another popular destination to visit in the Snowy Mountains is Thredbo. Similar in distance to Canberra and Sydney than Perisher, it offers over 480 hectares of slopes and more than 50 runs for visitors to enjoy.
Its combination of world-class skiing and snowboarding is sure to impress, whatever your skill level. The resort’s well-groomed trails feature a mix of wide-open cruisers, challenging steeps, and exhilarating terrain parks, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all snow enthusiasts. At the same time, this stunning alpine landscape will take your breath away, especially the iconic Mount Kosciuszko, which lords imperiously over the area.
Residing at the base of it, the resort’s village features comfortable accommodations, an excellent range of cafes and restaurants and a happening nightlife scene which includes live music, bars and nightclubs.
Thredbo also offers several ski and snowboard schools with experienced instructors who can coach all ages and abilities. Additionally, its hiking enthusiasts can embark on the popular Thredbo Valley Track, which offers scenic walks and hikes through alpine landscapes, rugged gorges, and breathtaking vistas.
During the warmer months, the resort also offers activities such as mountain biking, fishing, and scenic chairlift rides, enabling you to explore the area’s stunning natural wonders further.