The Snowy Mountains are the highest part of the Great Dividing Range, in the south of New South Wales, mostly within Kosciuszko National Park. Mount Kosciuszko, at 2,228 metres, is the highest peak on the Australian mainland. The region is also known for the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme, built from 1949 by workers from more than thirty countries. This is the Country of the Ngarigo and other peoples.
In winter, Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass become the busiest ski resorts in the country. In summer, the snow gives way to wildflowers, alpine walks, mountain biking, fishing and lakes. The base town of Jindabyne sits on a lake below the mountains, about two and a half hours from Canberra. Combine the region with the South Coast.
Highlights
- Mount Kosciuszko: the summit walk from the top of the Thredbo chairlift.
- Skiing and snowboarding: Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass, usually June to early October.
- Main Range walks: glacial lakes and high plains in summer.
- Lake Jindabyne: fishing, paddling and lakeside trails.
- Yarrangobilly Caves: limestone caves and a warm thermal pool.
- Wildflowers: alpine meadows in bloom in early summer.
Quick facts
| Where | Southern NSW, near the Victorian border |
|---|---|
| Highest point | Mount Kosciuszko, 2,228 m |
| From Sydney | About 5 h 30 by car; Canberra about 2 h 30 |
| Ideal stay | 2–5 nights |
| Best for | Skiing in winter, hiking in summer |
| Getting around | Car; Skitube and resort shuttles in winter |
How long to stay & where to base yourself
For skiing, plan three to five nights; for summer walking, two or three. Thredbo has village accommodation on the slopes; Perisher and Charlotte Pass have ski-in lodges; Jindabyne, below the mountains, is cheaper and has the most services. Winter weekends and school holidays sell out early.
