Best Snow Trips in Australia: Snowfields, Ski Resorts & Travel Tips
A snow trip in Australia might be a family day of tobogganing at Lake Mountain, a first ski lesson at Selwyn or Mount Baw Baw, or several days exploring the slopes at Thredbo or Perisher. The right destination depends on who is travelling, the activities you want to try and how far you are prepared to drive. This guide compares the main resorts and snow-play areas, with practical advice on day trips, travel dates, costs, bookings, alpine roads, snow chains, packing and safety.
Where to Go for a Snow Trip in Australia?
A family day in the snow calls for a different destination from a week of challenging runs. Some resorts are built around lessons and easy snow play, while others offer larger ski areas, steeper terrain or a village suited to a longer stay. The table below provides a quick overview before comparing the best snow trips for different types of travellers.
Australian Snow Trip Destinations at a Glance
Destination | State | Best For | Typical Trip |
Thredbo | NSW | Mixed groups and skiers who want room to progress | Weekend or multi-day stay |
Perisher | NSW | Large groups and a wide choice of terrain | Multi-day ski holiday |
Charlotte Pass | NSW | A quiet, car-free stay on the snow | Multi-day stay |
Selwyn Snow Resort | NSW | Families and first-time visitors | Day visit or short break nearby |
Falls Creek | Victoria | Families and groups with different interests | Multi-day village stay |
Mount Hotham | Victoria | Experienced skiers and snowboarders | Weekend or multi-day stay |
Mount Buller | Victoria | A short ski break from Melbourne | Day trip or weekend |
Mount Baw Baw | Victoria | Beginners and young families | Day trip or weekend |
Dinner Plain | Victoria | Non-skiers and mixed groups | Day trip or village stay |
Mount Buffalo National Park | Victoria | Snow play and a low-key national park visit | Day trip |
Lake Mountain | Victoria | Snow play and non-skiers | Day trip |
Ben Lomond | Tasmania | A local Tasmanian snow day | Day trip or short stay |
Best Snow Trips for Families
Lake Mountain
For families taking children to see snow for the first time, Lake Mountain is one of the easiest day-trip options from Melbourne. The drive usually takes about two to two and a half hours, and the resort focuses on snow play, tobogganing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing rather than downhill skiing. During Victorian school holidays and busy weekends, book resort entry in advance and arrive early, as the car parks can reach capacity.
Official website: https://lakemountainresort.com.au/
Falls Creek
Falls Creek is particularly practical for families planning several days in the mountains. Its ski-in, ski-out village brings accommodation, dining and winter facilities together, making it easier to organise meals, lessons and rest time around children. Families can also choose snow play and other winter activities when not everyone wants to spend the whole day skiing.
Official website: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/
Selwyn Snow Resort
Selwyn keeps a family’s first ski day relatively simple, with beginner lessons, snow play and a dedicated toboggan park in a compact resort. There is no on-site guest accommodation, so families usually stay in nearby towns such as Adaminaby or Talbingo and drive to the resort for the day. Lift passes and toboggan passes are sold separately.
Official website: https://selwynsnow.com.au/
Best Snow Trips for Beginners
Mount Baw Baw
For beginners who do not want a long alpine holiday, Mount Baw Baw brings lessons, equipment hire and snow play together in a compact resort. Snowmaking supports the beginner lesson areas and toboggan park, although lift operations and open terrain still depend on daily conditions.
Official website: https://www.mountbawbaw.com.au/
Mount Buller
A wider choice of lessons and beginner terrain makes Mount Buller suitable for a full day of learning or a weekend stay. First-timer packages include access to selected beginner lifts, while equipment can be hired close to the Ski and Snowboard School. Its village also provides accommodation, food and other activities if the whole group does not want to stay on the slopes all day.
Official website: https://www.mtbuller.com.au/winter
Ben Lomond Alpine Resort
In northern Tasmania, Ben Lomond offers a smaller-scale introduction to skiing and snowboarding. The resort offers first-timer packages, group lessons and private tuition, with equipment collected from Ben Lomond Base before driving up the mountain. Beyond Ben Lomond, travellers deciding where to see snow in Tasmania can also consider Cradle Mountain, Mount Field and the Hartz Mountains. Weather and road conditions can change quickly, so review the seasonal access requirements before driving up the mountain.
Official website: https://benlomondalpineresort.com.au/
Best Snow Trips for Non-Skiers
Dinner Plain
Dinner Plain is best suited to mixed groups that want an alpine village stay without requiring everyone to buy a downhill lift pass. Visitors can use the toboggan slope, explore cross-country trails, hire snowshoes or simply spend time around the village. Accommodation and dining are available within the village, and visitors do not pay the Mount Hotham resort entry fee unless they stop within the Mount Hotham resort area.
Official website: https://www.visitdinnerplain.com.au/
Mount Buffalo National Park
For a quieter snow day outside a commercial ski resort, Mount Buffalo provides a low-key national park setting. Dingo Dell and Cresta Valley provide designated areas for snow play and tobogganing, while Cresta Valley also has marked cross-country ski trails and snowshoe walks. As this is a national park rather than a full-service ski resort, review road conditions and organise food, clothing and equipment before travelling.
Official website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/mount-buffalo-national-park
Charlotte Pass
Reaching car-free Charlotte Pass by oversnow vehicle makes the journey part of the experience for non-skiers. During winter, visitors leave their car at Perisher before continuing into the snowbound village. Snow play and guided snowshoe tours are available, while the village setting provides an alpine experience without requiring everyone to ski. Day visitors must book the appropriate DayTripper package in advance.
Official website: https://charlottepass.com.au/
Best Snow Trips for Advanced Skiers
Mount Hotham
Confident skiers and snowboarders often choose Mount Hotham for its advanced terrain. Areas such as Heavenly Valley provide steeper runs, while the mountaintop village means many visitors begin the day by skiing down towards the lifts. Open terrain can change quickly with snow, wind and visibility, so review the daily lift and trail report before heading out.
Official website: https://www.mthotham.com.au/
Thredbo
Long descents and a well-serviced village make Thredbo a strong option for experienced riders planning several days on the snow. Confident skiers can explore black runs and natural mountain features, while the village provides accommodation, dining and transport close to the slopes. Lift and trail availability varies with weather, so review the mountain report each morning before choosing a route.
Official website: https://www.thredbo.com.au/
Perisher
Perisher gives experienced skiers access to extensive terrain across four linked resort areas. Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega are connected by ski and snowboard trails when conditions allow.
Official website: https://www.perisher.com.au/
Best Day Trips to the Snow in Australia
Once you know which destinations suit your group, the next step is to choose the most practical day trip to the snow from your departure city.
Departure Area | Recommended Destinations | Day-Trip Practicality | Key Planning Note |
Melbourne | Lake Mountain, Mount Baw Baw and Mount Buller | Lake Mountain and Mount Baw Baw are well suited to day visits. Mount Buller is possible as a long day trip but also works well for a weekend. | Leave early and confirm resort entry, parking and snow-chain requirements before departure. |
Canberra | Selwyn Snow Resort, Perisher and Thredbo | Selwyn is the simplest family day-trip option. Perisher and Thredbo are also accessible for a full day, although an overnight stay allows more time on the slopes. | Allow time for national park entry, equipment collection and possible delays on alpine roads. |
Sydney | Perisher, Thredbo and Selwyn Snow Resort | A same-day return is possible but demanding because of the distance. A weekend stay in Jindabyne or nearby towns is generally more practical. | Consider an overnight stay, a booked coach service or parking at Bullocks Flat and taking Skitube to Perisher. |
Launceston | Ben Lomond | Ben Lomond is one of the most practical snow day trips from northern Tasmania when road and snow conditions allow. | Collect rental equipment before driving up the mountain and follow the seasonal snow-chain requirements outlined below. |
When to Go on a Snow Trip in Australia?
Snow conditions in Australia can change considerably between June and September. The best time to visit depends on whether you want a family snow day, reliable ski conditions or a quieter spring trip.
When Does the Snow Season Start in Australia?
Australia’s main snow season usually begins in June, with many resorts opening around the King’s Birthday long weekend. The season often continues into September or early October at larger, higher-altitude resorts.
An official opening date does not mean every lift, run or snow-play area will be operating. Early June conditions depend on natural snowfall, overnight temperatures and snowmaking, so flexible plans are useful if travelling near the start of the season.
What Is the Best Month for Snow in Australia?
July and August are the main months for an Australian snow holiday. August often offers a more established snow base, while higher resorts may continue to provide good spring conditions in September.
Month | What to Expect | Best For |
June | Early-season conditions and fewer open runs | Flexible trips and opening-weekend events |
July | Busy resorts, school-holiday demand and a strong winter atmosphere | Family holidays and the full winter experience |
August | Usually the best chance of an established snow base | Ski and snowboard holidays |
September | Milder days and quieter slopes, although snow becomes less reliable at lower elevations | Spring skiing and flexible trips |
Snowfall varies from year to year, so no month guarantees ideal conditions. Accommodation, lessons and popular equipment sizes can fill early during the July school holidays.
When Should You Check Snow Reports?
Check conditions more than once before leaving:
One week before: Review the alpine forecast, recent snowfall and resort cameras.
The evening before: Confirm lift status, snow-play areas, parking, road access and snow-chain requirements.
Before departure: Review any overnight changes to wind, visibility, roads and open facilities.
This is particularly important for early day trips from Melbourne or Canberra. A full car park, chain requirement or delayed lift can affect the whole day, even when the general weather forecast looks fine.
How to Plan and Book a Snow Trip?
Once you have chosen a destination and suitable travel dates, arrange accommodation and lessons first, followed by lift passes, equipment hire and transport.
What Costs Should You Budget for on a Snow Trip?
Snow trip costs depend on the destination, activities, group size and length of stay. A snow-play day trip may only involve transport, resort entry, clothing hire and food, while a ski holiday also requires lift passes, lessons, equipment and accommodation.
Trip Type | Main Costs to Budget For | Ways to Manage Costs |
Snow-play day trip | Resort or national park entry, parking, clothing hire, tobogganing, food and fuel | Bring food, travel midweek and hire only the clothing or equipment you need. |
One-day ski trip | Lift pass, equipment hire, lessons, resort entry, transport and food | Compare beginner packages and confirm whether equipment, lessons and lift access are bundled together. |
Multi-day ski holiday | Accommodation, multi-day lift passes, lessons, equipment hire, meals and transport | Compare on-mountain accommodation with nearby towns and secure peak-period stays early. |
Costs vary by resort, travel date and visitor age. Check whether resort entry, parking, equipment, lessons and lift access are included or charged separately.
When Should You Book Accommodation?
Accommodation can fill quickly during July school holidays, weekends and periods following major snowfall. On-mountain rooms and family-sized apartments are limited, and some properties require a minimum stay during busy periods. Staying in a resort village makes early lessons and rest breaks easier, but accommodation in Jindabyne or towns below the Victorian Alps often provides more choice and may cost less. Allow extra time for the morning drive, parking and possible snow-chain delays, and review the cancellation terms before paying.
Should You Book Lift Passes and Lessons Early?
Children’s lessons, private tuition and preferred time slots can fill early, especially during school holidays. Lesson places may fill before general lift passes sell out, while advance online passes can sometimes cost less than last-minute purchases. Not everyone in the group needs the same product, as a parent staying in a snow-play area may not need a full lift pass and beginner packages may only cover selected learning areas.
Before paying, confirm:
the lesson meeting point and start time
age or ability requirements
whether equipment and lift access are included
Should You Hire or Bring Snow Equipment?
The best option depends on your experience, travel plans and how often you ski:
Hire equipment if you are a first-time skier, travelling with growing children or flying to the snow. It avoids carrying bulky gear and allows staff to check the fit.
Bring your own equipment if you ski regularly, already have a suitable setup and have enough room to transport and store it.
During school holidays, reserve rental equipment early and ask whether evening collection is available. Packages commonly include skis or a snowboard and boots, while helmets, goggles, gloves and waterproof clothing may be separate.
Driving and Transport to the Snow
Driving offers more flexibility for luggage and departure times, but alpine travel requires planning for resort access, parking, road conditions and snow-chain rules.
Resort Entry, Parking and National Park Fees
Resort entry, parking and lift access are often charged separately. Include the applicable fees when setting your budget:
Kosciuszko National Park: A park-use fee applies to vehicles entering the Thredbo–Perisher area. Day and multi-day passes are available, but the fee does not include lift tickets, lessons or equipment hire.
Victorian alpine resorts: Vehicles entering Falls Creek, Mt Hotham, Mt Buller, Mt Stirling, Mt Baw Baw or Lake Mountain during the declared snow season need a valid resort entry permit. Permits may cover one day, several days or the full season.
Parking and village transfers: A valid entry permit does not always mean you can park beside the village. On busy weekends, visitors may need to use an outer car park and continue by shuttle or resort transfer.
Buy the permit for the correct resort and dates, and confirm any separate arrangements for overnight parking.
Snow Chain Rules in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania
Snow-chain rules vary by state, resort, road and vehicle type. Some alpine routes require chains to be carried throughout the snow season, while other resorts set requirements according to daily road and weather conditions.
Area | Who Must Carry Chains | When | Main Requirement |
Thredbo and Perisher area, NSW | All 2WD vehicles | Between the June and October long weekends | Chains must be carried on designated roads in Kosciuszko National Park*. AWD and 4WD vehicles are also advised to carry them during severe weather. |
Falls Creek, Mount Baw Baw, Mount Buller, Mount Hotham and Mount Stirling, Victoria | All vehicles, including AWD and 4WD | Throughout the declared snow season, from 6 June to 4 October 2026 | Suitable snow chains must be carried and fitted when directed by signs, resort staff or Victoria Police. |
Lake Mountain, Victoria | All 2WD vehicles | On declared chain days | Chains must be carried and fitted only when directed by resort staff. Daily requirements are published by the resort. |
Ben Lomond, Tasmania | All vehicles driving up the mountain | From 1 June to 30 September | Snow chains must be carried by law and fitted only when road conditions or official directions require them. |
*In NSW, designated roads include Kosciuszko Road from the park boundary at Thredbo River, Island Bend–Guthega Road and Alpine Way between Thredbo and Tom Groggin.
Before travelling, confirm that the chains fit your vehicle’s tyres and practise installing them at home. Keep them in the vehicle where required, and fit them only when directed, using a designated chain-fitting bay or another safe area away from traffic.
Coach, Bus and Skitube Options
Public transport can remove the need to drive on icy roads, fit chains or search for resort parking. The main options include:
Snowy Mountains Bus Service: Seasonal buses connect Jindabyne with Perisher and Thredbo. Services operate daily during the ski season, and advance booking is recommended during school holidays and other busy periods. Return fares include entry to Kosciuszko National Park, and the buses have space for skis or a snowboard.
Skitube: Visitors to Perisher can park at Bullocks Flat and take the alpine railway to Perisher Valley or Blue Cow. Bullocks Flat offers free day and overnight parking, and using Skitube avoids the upper alpine drive and the Kosciuszko National Park vehicle-use fee.
Coach and transfer services: Coaches and private transfers operate to several Victorian resorts from Melbourne, regional towns and airports. Services are available to destinations including Mt Buller, Mt Hotham and Falls Creek, although routes and timetables vary by operator and date.
Confirm luggage and equipment allowances, the final return service and whether the timetable leaves enough time to collect passes and rental equipment.
What to Pack for a Snow Trip?
Snow trip essentials include warm waterproof layers, spare clothing, food, water, booking details and any road equipment required for the journey.
What to Wear on a Snow Trip
Dress in layers so you can adjust as the temperature changes:
Base layer: Moisture-wicking thermals worn next to the skin
Mid-layer: A fleece or insulated jacket for warmth
Outer layer: A waterproof jacket and snow pants
Accessories: Waterproof gloves, warm socks, a beanie and goggles or sunglasses
Avoid cotton as a base layer because it holds moisture and can leave you feeling cold. Sunscreen and lip balm are also important in alpine areas, where UV reflects off the snow. Pack dry clothes for the trip home, especially for children or anyone spending the day tobogganing.
Snow Trip Packing Checklist for Day Trips, Children and Overnight Stays
The basic packing list is similar for most snow trips, with extra clothing and supplies added for children or overnight stays.
Packing Area | Day Trip Essentials | Extra Items for Children | Overnight Additions |
Clothing | Waterproof outer layers, thermals, warm socks, gloves and a beanie | Spare gloves, socks and a full dry change of clothes | Additional base layers, casual clothes and indoor footwear |
Food and water | Drinking water, snacks and lunch if food options are limited | Easy-to-carry snacks and a labelled water bottle | Breakfast supplies or groceries for self-contained accommodation |
Personal items | Sunscreen, lip balm, medication, tissues and hand sanitiser | Children’s medication, name labels and a bag for wet clothing | Toiletries and any regular medication |
Travel items | Phone, charging cable, wallet and booking confirmations | Emergency contact details | Accommodation details, additional chargers and evening essentials |
Keep frequently used items in a small backpack rather than at the bottom of the car. A waterproof or reusable bag is also useful for separating wet clothing from dry gear.
Car Equipment, Emergency Power and Charging
Useful items for an alpine drive include:
correctly sized snow chains where required
gloves and a mat for fitting chains
an ice scraper and torch
a blanket and first-aid kit
drinking water and offline maps
charging cables and backup power
A power bank is usually enough for a simple day trip. For longer drives or overnight stays, an EcoFlow portable power station can charge several phones, cameras, tablets and portable lights from one unit. Choose the capacity according to the devices you plan to use and their expected runtime.
The EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station suits snow day trips, weekend stays and family drives where several devices need charging. It can keep phones, cameras, laptops and portable lights running from one unit, reducing reliance on vehicle charging ports or limited accommodation outlets. Its portable design also makes it practical to move between the car, caravan and accommodation.
The EcoFlow DELTA 3 Max Plus Portable Power Station is better suited to longer snow trips, off-grid stays and more demanding equipment. Its automotive-grade LFP battery is built for long-term use, while the unit is designed to operate in freezing temperatures and other challenging conditions. It can provide dependable backup power for communication devices, lighting, refrigeration and selected travel equipment when grid access is limited.
Snow Safety and Alpine Responsibility
Alpine conditions can change quickly, even when the village appears calm. Drive to the conditions and follow directions from road, resort and national park staff.
Drive Carefully on Alpine Roads
Snow, fog and black ice can increase stopping distances and reduce visibility. When driving in alpine areas:
slow down and leave more space behind the vehicle ahead
accelerate, steer and brake smoothly
select a lower gear on steep descents
use low-beam headlights in fog or falling snow
Fit chains when directed and use a designated fitting bay or safe pull-off area. Do not stop in a traffic lane to take photographs, fit equipment or let passengers play in the snow. If visibility becomes too poor, find a safe place to stop.
Stay Warm, Dry and Hydrated
Replace wet gloves, socks and base layers before the cold becomes difficult to manage. Children may stay focused on playing and not mention that they are cold, so bring them indoors for regular breaks and keep dry clothing nearby.
Carry water and easy snacks, even for a short visit. Stop the activity if someone cannot get warm, feels unwell or becomes too tired to continue safely.
Follow Resort and National Park Rules
Local rules protect visitors and the alpine environment:
stay within open runs, tracks and designated snow-play areas
give way to skiers and riders below you, and stop where others can see you
park only in marked areas and follow staff directions
take rubbish and food scraps with you where bins are not provided
Do not enter closed roads, trails or cordoned-off areas. A closure may be caused by poor visibility, unsafe snow, maintenance work or changing weather, even when conditions appear manageable nearby.
Know When to Turn Back
Changing the plan is often safer than trying to complete the trip. Delay the drive, return to the village or move indoors when:
visibility drops or a road, lift or activity area closes
the vehicle does not have the required chains or suitable equipment
clothing is soaked and there is no dry replacement
a child, passenger or driver becomes cold, exhausted, unwell or distressed
If you become lost, stop moving, find shelter and contact emergency services. In a life-threatening emergency in Australia, call Triple Zero (000).
Conclusion
A snow trip in Australia can range from a family snow-play day to a multi-day ski holiday. Choose a destination that suits your group, allow enough time for alpine travel and secure peak-period accommodation and lessons early. With suitable clothing, careful transport planning and backup power for essential devices, you will be better prepared for changing alpine conditions.
FAQs
When Is the Best Time to Book a Snow Trip in Australia?
Book accommodation, lessons and equipment hire as soon as your dates are confirmed, particularly for July and August weekends and school holidays. On-mountain accommodation and children’s lessons can fill early. Midweek trips usually offer greater availability and may cost less.
What Non-Skiing Activities Can You Enjoy on an Australian Snow Trip?
Options may include tobogganing, snow play, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, scenic lift rides and alpine village visits. Availability varies by destination, snow conditions and operating dates, so confirm the current activity schedule before travelling.
Do You Need Snow Chains for a Snow Trip in Australia?
Snow-chain requirements depend on the state, road, vehicle and current conditions. Some alpine routes require certain vehicles to carry chains during the snow season, while other resorts decide requirements each day. Follow the latest official road and resort advice, carry the correct chain size where required and fit the chains only when directed.