Cold-weather and snow travel in Australia: what to prepare
Many people who come to Australia from the tropics see snow here for the first time — and it can be a memorable experience if you prepare properly. The snow-covered mountains of Australia are not as extensive as in Europe or Japan, but there are ski fields and snow walks that are well worth visiting.
Snow in Australia: where and when
Natural snowfall in Australia is concentrated mainly in two regions:
The Snowy Mountains — New South Wales This is the largest snow area in Australia, within Kosciuszko National Park. Thredbo, Perisher, and Charlotte Pass are the main ski resorts. Mount Kosciuszko — Australia’s highest peak — is in this region.
Alpine Victoria Falls Creek, Mount Buller, and Mount Hotham are the well-known ski resorts in Victoria. This region is closer to Melbourne and popular with people from the south.
The snow season: Winter in Australia runs from June to August. This is the main period for skiing. Early-season snow (June) is usually thin and unreliable; mid and late season (July–August) is usually better — but snow conditions vary from year to year. There are no guaranteed figures.
Outside winter, some high-mountain areas are still worth visiting in summer for walking — when the snow has melted, the alpine meadow scenery is very distinctive.
Skiing or just visiting the snow?
The two kinds of trip differ considerably in preparation:
Skiing / snowboarding: You need equipment (hire it at the resort), specialised clothing, and either experience or lessons for beginners. The cost is significantly higher than most other travel activities in Australia. Not suitable for very young children or for people with joint and bone health issues.
Snow play / sightseeing: No skiing skill needed. Many families go to snow areas simply to let their children see and play in the snow for the first time. You still need warm clothing and suitable shoes.
Clothing and gear
This is the most important part — especially for people experiencing snow for the first time from a warm climate.
Must-haves:
- A windproof and waterproof jacket (a waterproof outer layer) — not an ordinary coat
- Waterproof trousers or snow pants
- Warm, waterproof gloves
- A warm hat that covers your ears
- Thick socks — merino wool is better than cotton, because cotton holds moisture
- Non-slip, waterproof, warm boots
Needed but often forgotten:
- Sunscreen — snow reflects UV very strongly, and skin burns easily even when it is cold
- Sunglasses or goggles if skiing or out in blizzard conditions
- A thermal base layer underneath — especially important for young children
If you do not have suitable clothing, many areas offer hire — but booking ahead through a website is cheaper than hiring on site.
Getting to the snow
From Sydney to the Snowy Mountains: A drive of several hours from Sydney, passing through Cooma before reaching the ski resorts. There are buses from Sydney in winter, but the schedule is limited — check the actual timetable first.
From Melbourne to Alpine Victoria: Closer to Melbourne than the Snowy Mountains are to Sydney. Mount Buller and Falls Creek are the most popular options for people from Melbourne.
Notes when driving:
- Some roads into the ski resorts may require snow chains when there is snow — the specific rules vary by state and actual conditions. Check road information with the state transport authority before you set out. Hire or buy chains beforehand in the town at the foot of the mountain.
- Road conditions change quickly — check road information before you set out.
- Fill up on fuel and food before going up the mountain — the choice and prices at the ski resort are limited.
Booking accommodation
The snow season is peak travel time in these mountain areas. Accommodation at the resort (ski-in/ski-out) is convenient but much more expensive than staying in a nearby town and travelling up each day.
Book early — especially for the winter holidays and weekends in July. Some places are booked a whole season in advance.
Children and older travellers
Children: Playing in the snow for the first time is a wonderful experience, but young children lose heat faster than adults. Dress them in enough layers, check often whether they are cold, and have a warm area to rest in when needed. “Snow play” areas (snow without skiing) are usually safer for young children.
Older travellers: Icy, snowy surfaces make slips and falls easy — non-slip shoes are essential. You do not need to ski to enjoy the scenery.
See the related guides on choosing destinations by season and visiting national parks.