If you’ve ever dreamed of carving up pristine slopes while spotting a kangaroo in the distance, then skiing in Australia might just be your perfect adventure. Nestled in the heart of the Great Dividing Range, Australia’s ski resorts offer a unique blend of world-class skiing, laid-back Aussie charm, and breathtaking alpine scenery you won’t find anywhere else. From the towering snow gums of Thredbo to the vast expanse of Perisher, we’re about to embark on a journey through the winter wonderland Down Under. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, there’s something magical about hitting the slopes in the land of beaches and barbecues. Get ready to discover why skiing in Australia is an experience like no other!
Best Ski Resorts in Australia:
- 🏔️ For Largest Terrain: Perisher, New South Wales
- 🏂 For Longest Ski Runs: Thredbo, New South Wales
- 👨👩👧👦 For Family-Friendly Skiing: Falls Creek, Victoria
- 🏄♂️ For Advanced Skiers: Mount Hotham, Victoria
- 🚗 For Easy Access from Melbourne: Mount Buller, Victoria
- 🌠 For Highest Altitude Skiing: Charlotte Pass, New South Wales
- 🏞️ For Unique Tasmanian Skiing: Ben Lomond, Tasmania
- 🏘️ For Charming Alpine Village Experience: Dinner Plain, Victoria
1. Perisher, New South Wales
- 🎿 Pistes: 65 km of runs, 46 lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1,605 m – 2,054 m above sea level (altitude difference 449 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 200 km from Canberra Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, from beginners to advanced
- 🏨 Average price per night: Varies widely
Perisher is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, spanning four interconnected areas: Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega. Located in the picturesque Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales, Australia, it offers a vast 1,245 hectares of skiable terrain across seven mountain peaks.
The resort boasts modern infrastructure, including high-speed chairlifts and an extensive snowmaking system with 240 snow guns covering 54.9 hectares. Perisher’s varied terrain caters to all skill levels, with 22% beginner runs, 60% intermediate, and 18% advanced.
A unique feature of Perisher is the Skitube Alpine Railway, which tunnels through the Ramshead Range, providing easy access to the slopes. The resort also offers night skiing on Tuesdays and Saturdays, adding to its appeal.
Features: Perisher is known for its world-class terrain parks, with five parks catering to freestyle enthusiasts. The resort also offers over 100 km of marked cross-country trails, making it a versatile destination for various snow sports.
Facts: Perisher’s ski season typically runs from June to October, with July and August being the peak months. The resort averages 1.9 meters of snow depth over the past 15 years, supplemented by extensive snowmaking capabilities to ensure consistent conditions throughout the season.
Hotels in Perisher:
Expensive Hotels:
- Guthega Inn – Cozy alpine hotel offering stunning mountain views and direct access to ski slopes.
- Perisher Manor Hotel – Comfortable ski-in/ski-out place featuring a sauna and communal lounge with fireplace.
- The Perisher Valley Hotel – Stylish resort with an indoor pool, spa facilities, and on-site restaurant serving gourmet meals.
Medium price category:
- Peer Gynt Ski Lodge – Friendly, family-run hotel offering home-cooked meals and a warm atmosphere for skiers.
- Boonoona Ski Lodge – Charming budget-friendly place with shared facilities and a cozy communal living area.
2. Thredbo, New South Wales
- 🎿 Pistes: 67 km of runs, 14 lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1,365 m – 2,037 m above sea level (altitude difference 672 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 216 km from Canberra Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, particularly good for intermediates and advanced
- 🏨 Average price per night: Varies widely (accommodation options not provided)
Thredbo, located in the heart of the Snowy Mountains of NSW, is one of Australia’s best-known and oldest ski resorts. It’s a premier destination for those looking to go skiing in Australia, offering a unique blend of challenging terrain and vibrant village atmosphere.
The resort boasts the longest runs in Australia, including the famous Supertrail which stretches for 5.9 km. With its impressive vertical drop, Thredbo is a favorite among downhill skiing enthusiasts. The resort caters to all skill levels, from first-time skiers to seasoned pros, with a variety of ski slopes and terrain parks.
Thredbo’s modern lift system, including the Kosciuszko Express chairlift, provides easy access to the mountain’s peak. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine landscape and even embark on a hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak.
Features: Thredbo is renowned for its lively village atmosphere, offering a range of après-ski activities. The resort hosts various events throughout the season, from ski competitions to music festivals. In summer, Thredbo transforms into a hub for mountain biking and hiking.
Facts: Thredbo’s ski season typically runs from June to October. Thredbo is part of the Ikon Pass, making it an attractive option for international visitors planning to ski across multiple resorts.
Hotels in Thredbo:
Expensive Hotels:
- The Denman Hotel in Thredbo – Elegant alpine retreat featuring a fine dining restaurant and cozy apres-ski bar.
- Thredbo Alpine Hotel – Modern ski-in/ski-out hotel with an indoor pool and on-site dining options.
- YHA Thredbo – Budget-friendly hostel offering shared and private rooms with stunning mountain views.
Medium price category:
- Pure Chalet Thredbo – Luxurious chalet-style hotel featuring private balconies and a hot tub.
- Candlelight Lodge – Charming family-run lodge with a cozy fireplace lounge and in-house restaurant.
- Bernti's Mountain Inn – Traditional alpine inn offering comfortable rooms and a lively pub atmosphere.
3. Falls Creek, Victoria
- 🎿 Pistes: 92 km of runs, 14 lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1,210 m – 1,780 m above sea level (altitude difference 570 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 386 km from Melbourne Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, especially intermediates and families
- 🏨 Average price per night: Varies widely
Falls Creek is Victoria’s largest alpine resort and a premier destination for skiing in Australia. Located about 4.5 hours from Melbourne, it offers a unique ski-in/ski-out village experience that sets it apart from other Australian ski resorts.
The resort features 92 km of diverse ski terrain, catering to all skill levels but particularly appealing to intermediate skiers. With 14 lifts serving the area, visitors can explore varied runs and scenic snow gum forests. Falls Creek is also renowned for its cross-country skiing, boasting over 65 km of groomed trails.
A standout feature of Falls Creek is its pedestrian-friendly village, offering true ski-in/ski-out hotels. This convenience, combined with the resort’s family-friendly atmosphere, makes it a popular choice for skiing holidays in Australia.
Features: Falls Creek offers year-round activities. In winter, it’s a haven for downhill and cross-country skiing, while in summer, it transforms into a popular destination for mountain biking and hiking. The nearby Rocky Valley Lake provides opportunities for water sports and fishing.
Facts: Falls Creek is part of the Epic Australia Pass, allowing seamless access for those planning to ski multiple resorts. The resort has invested in snowmaking capabilities to ensure consistent conditions throughout the winter season, which typically runs from June to October.
Hotels in Falls Creek:
Expensive Hotels:
- Summit Ridge Alpine Lodge – Spacious hotel offering panoramic mountain views and a cozy fireplace lounge.
- Falls Creek Country Club – Modern apartments with full kitchens and private balconies, perfect for self-catering ski holidays.
- Attunga Alpine Lodge & Apartments – Comfortable hotel featuring a sauna and ski storage facilities.
Medium price category:
- Feathertop Alpine Lodge – Charming hotel with a communal lounge and easy access to ski lifts.
- Lakeside Falls Creek – Stylish apartments overlooking a picturesque lake, offering ski-in/ski-out convenience.
- Cooroona Alpine Lodge – Cozy budget-friendly hotel with shared facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.
4. Mount Hotham, Victoria
- 🎿 Pistes: 72 km of runs, 13 lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1,450 m – 1,861 m above sea level (altitude difference 411 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 250 km from Melbourne Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: Intermediate to advanced, powder seekers
- 🏨 Average price per night: Varies widely
Mount Hotham, often referred to as the “Powder Capital of Australia,” is one of the highest ski resorts in the country and a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders. Located in the Victorian Alps, it’s part of the Australian Alps National Park and offers a unique experience with its village situated at the top of the mountain.
The resort boasts 72 km of diverse ski terrain, with a good mix of groomed runs and challenging off-piste areas. Its 13 lifts, including Australia’s first quad detachable chairlift, provide access to some of the best advanced terrain in the country.
Mount Hotham is part of the interconnected Hotham-Falls Creek Alpine Resort, creating one of the largest lift networks in Australia. This connection allows skiers and snowboarders to explore a vast area of varied terrain across two resorts.
Features: Mount Hotham is renowned for its snowmaking capabilities, ensuring good snow coverage throughout the season. The place also offers night skiing on selected evenings, adding to the variety of skiing experiences available. For those looking to improve their skills, the resort’s ski school is highly regarded, with programs for all ages and abilities.
Facts: The ski season at Mount Hotham typically runs from early June to early October. The resort’s unique inverted village layout, with accommodation at the top of the mountain, provides stunning views and true ski-in/ski-out access. Mount Hotham is also known for its vibrant après-ski scene, with a range of bars and restaurants offering everything from casual pub fare to fine dining experiences.
Hotels in Mount Hotham:
- Mountain Dreaming – Cozy chalet-style accommodation offering stunning alpine views and easy access to ski runs.
- White Crystal Apartments – Modern self-contained apartments with ski-in/ski-out access and a heated indoor pool.
5. Mount Buller, Victoria
- 🎿 Pistes: 80 km of runs, 22 lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1,375 m – 1,805 m above sea level (altitude difference 430 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 248 km from Melbourne Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, great for families and beginners
- 🏨 Average price per night: Varies widely (accommodation options not provided)
Mount Buller is one of Australia’s best ski resorts and a favorite among Melburnians, being the closest major snow resort to any Australian capital city. Just a three-hour drive from Melbourne, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the city for a quick ski getaway.
The resort boasts an impressive 80 km of ski trails catered by 22 lifts, making it one of the largest lift networks in Australia. From gentle slopes for first-time skiers to challenging runs for the more experienced, Mount Buller’s varied terrain caters to all skill levels.
One of Mount Buller’s standout features is its vibrant alpine village. Unlike some other Australian ski resorts, Buller offers a true ski-in, ski-out experience with a wide range of on-mountain accommodation options. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the resort’s lively après-ski scene, with numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from.
Features: The resort also some of Australia’s best terrain parks, making it a hit with snowboarders and freestyle skiers. For those new to snow sports, the resort offers comprehensive ski and snowboard schools.
Facts: The ski season at Mount Buller typically runs from early June to late September. The resort has invested heavily in sustainable practices, including the use of renewable energy. Mount Buller is also home to the National Alpine Museum of Australia, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history of Australian snow sports.
Hotels in Mount Buller:
- Arlberg Hotel Mt. Buller – Ski-in/ski-out hotel offering direct access to Bourke Street ski run, with on-site restaurants and bars.
- Alpine Retreat Mt Buller – Family-friendly hotel featuring a pool, spa, and games room, perfect for a cozy mountain getaway.
6. Ben Lomond, Tasmania
- 🎿 Pistes: 6 km of slopes, 7 lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1,460 m – 1,570 m above sea level (altitude difference 110 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 230 km from Launceston Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, from beginners to advanced
- 🏨 Average price per night: Varies widely
Ben Lomond is Tasmania’s only commercial ski resort, offering a unique alpine experience in Australia’s island state. The resort operates as a winter ski destination from mid-June to September, with 6 km of slopes catering to all skill levels.
Access to the resort is via the infamous Jacob’s Ladder, a steep zig-zag road that provides a thrilling journey to the ski area. A shuttle service is available for those who prefer not to drive this challenging route.
Outside the ski season, Ben Lomond transforms into a popular destination for hiking and wildlife spotting. The park is home to diverse native fauna including Bennett’s wallabies, wombats, and Forester kangaroos.
Features: Ben Lomond offers year-round attractions. In winter, it’s a compact but exciting ski area. In summer, it becomes a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with trails leading to spectacular viewpoints like Legges Tor, Tasmania’s second-highest peak.
Facts: The resort is situated within Ben Lomond National Park, known for its unique alpine flora including snow gums and alpine wildflowers. The park’s dolerite peaks and clear night skies offer excellent stargazing opportunities, adding to its appeal as a year-round destination.
7. Dinner Plain, Victoria
- 🎿 Pistes: 1 beginner ski run with a poma lift, 16 km of cross-country ski trails
- 🏔 Altitude: 1,520 m above sea level
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 250 km from Melbourne Airport
- ⛷ Type of visitors: Families, beginners, cross-country skiers, year-round outdoor enthusiasts
- 🏨 Average price per night: Varies widely
Dinner Plain is a charming alpine village located in Victoria’s High Country, just 10 km from Mount Hotham. It offers a unique, laid-back Australian alpine experience with year-round attractions.
In winter, the village has its own beginner-friendly ski run and 16 km of groomed cross-country ski trails. It’s an ideal destination for families and those new to snow sports. Dog sledding tours are also available, offering a unique winter adventure.
During summer, Dinner Plain transforms into a hub for outdoor activities including mountain biking, hiking, tennis (on Australia’s highest court), and disc golf on the country’s highest course.
Features: Dinner Plain’s architecture is inspired by traditional cattlemen’s huts, blending seamlessly with the alpine environment. The village offers a range of dining options, from hearty pub meals to wood-fired pizzas, catering to visitors after a day of outdoor activities.
Facts: Dinner Plain is a year-round destination, offering snow sports in winter and a variety of outdoor activities in summer. Its proximity to Mount Hotham makes it a popular alternative or complementary destination for those visiting the larger resort.
Hotels in Dinner Plain:
- Shiraz – Charming alpine chalet offering cozy hotel and easy access to nearby ski slopes.
- Snowgums 15 – Spacious holiday home surrounded by snow gums, perfect for families or groups.
- Champagne – Luxurious apartment featuring modern amenities and stunning mountain views.
- Hotel High Plains – Comfortable hotel with on-site restaurant and bar, ideal for après-ski relaxation.
- Little MOOSE – Cozy apartment with a rustic feel, offering a home-away-from-home experience in the mountains.
- Loft – Stylish loft apartment with open-plan living, perfect for couples seeking a romantic mountain getaway.
8. Charlotte Pass, New South Wales
- 🎿 Pistes: 10 km of slopes, 4 lifts
- 🏔 Altitude: 1,765 m – 1,954 m above sea level (altitude difference 189 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 212 km from Canberra Airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: All levels, particularly good for families and beginners
- 🏨 Average price per night: Day ticket AU$ 159 for adults
Charlotte Pass is Australia’s highest ski resort, located in the heart of the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales. It’s unique in being completely snowbound during winter, accessible only by oversnow transport from Perisher Valley.
The resort offers a true ski-in/ski-out experience with all accommodation and facilities right on the slopes. It’s known for its intimate, crowd-free atmosphere, with no cars, no long lift queues, and spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Kosciuszko.
Charlotte Pass caters to all skill levels but is particularly popular with families and beginners due to its manageable size and friendly atmosphere. The resort offers a variety of winter activities beyond skiing and snowboarding.
Features: Night skiing, groomer tours, flare runs, snowshoe tours, and the unique Mount Stilwell Snow Experience where guests can watch the sunrise and be the first to ski down the mountain.
Facts: Charlotte Pass is one of Australia’s oldest ski areas, with a rich history dating back to the 1930s. It holds the record for Australia’s lowest recorded temperature (-23°C). The resort typically operates from mid-June to late September, offering a quintessential Australian alpine experience.
9. When to Visit Australian Ski Resorts
- 🎿 Typical season: Early June to early October
- 🏔 Peak snow conditions: July and August
- 🛫 Best time to book: As early as possible for deals, or last-minute for potential bargains
- ⛷ Opening dates: Most major resorts aim to open around June 8-9
- 🏨 Closing dates: Vary by resort, but generally around late September to early October
The Australian ski season typically runs from June through to October. While the season traditionally spans almost 5 months, July and August tend to offer the best snow and weather conditions, being the coldest months of the year.
Many major Australian ski resorts are projecting opening dates around June 8-9. However, it’s important to note that these dates can vary depending on snow conditions and are subject to change.
When planning your visit, consider the following:
- Peak season: July and August offer the most reliable snowfall and coldest temperatures, ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
- Early season: June can be hit-or-miss for natural snow, but many resorts have extensive snowmaking capabilities to ensure skiable conditions.
- Late season: September can offer good spring skiing conditions and fewer crowds.
- Closing dates: Most resorts aim to stay open until late September or early October, with the 2024/25 season projected to end around October 6, 2024.
Keep in mind that climate change is affecting Australian ski seasons. Recent reports suggest that by 2050, the average ski season across all resorts could be 44 days shorter under a mid-emissions scenario. This makes it even more crucial to plan your visit during peak snow months.
For the best experience, book your trip as early as possible to secure good deals on accommodation and lift passes. However, if you’re flexible, last-minute bookings can sometimes offer unexpected bargains.
Remember to check individual resort websites for the most up-to-date information on opening dates, snow conditions, and any COVID-19 related restrictions that may be in place.
10. Getting to Australian Ski Resorts
- 🚗 Main access: Most visitors drive from major cities
- 🏔 Key regions: Snowy Mountains (NSW), Victorian Alps
- 🛫 Nearest airports: Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra; regional airports like Cooma and Albury
- 🚌 Public transport: Coach services available from major cities
- 🚂 Unique option: Skitube alpine railway to Perisher
Getting to Australian ski resorts is an adventure in itself, with most destinations nestled in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales or the Victorian Alps. Popular resorts like Perisher and Thredbo are often accessed from Sydney, while Falls Creek and Mount Buller are typically reached from Melbourne.
Driving is the most popular option, offering flexibility and scenic routes. However, roads can be challenging in winter, requiring snow chains and suitable vehicles. For those preferring not to drive, coach services operate from major cities to most resorts. The Skitube alpine railway offers a unique transport option to Perisher.
Flying to regional airports like Cooma (NSW) or Albury (Victoria) can save time, with shuttle services available to nearby resorts. Many resorts offer on-mountain accommodation, allowing visitors to stay close to the slopes.
11. Unique Features of Australian Skiing
- 🌳 Unique landscape: Skiing among snow gum forests
- 🗓️ Season: June to October (Northern Hemisphere summer)
- 🏔️ Highest point: Thredbo (highest lifted point in Australia)
- 🏂 Largest resort: Perisher (largest in Southern Hemisphere)
- 🐨 Wildlife: Possibility of spotting native animals near ski fields
Australian skiing offers a distinctive experience that blends unique natural features with a laid-back Aussie atmosphere. The opportunity to ski among snow gum forests, a sight exclusive to Australia, creates a surreal and quintessentially Australian alpine landscape.
The ski season runs from June to October, making it an ideal destination for Northern Hemisphere residents seeking a “summer skiing” experience. Australia’s ski resorts have invested heavily in snowmaking capabilities to ensure reliable conditions throughout the season.
Thredbo in New South Wales boasts the longest runs and highest lifted point in Australia, while Perisher, also in NSW, is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere. In Victoria, Falls Creek is renowned for its cross-country skiing trails, and Mount Hotham is known as the “Powder Capital of Australia.”
Australian ski resorts offer unique experiences such as night skiing, fireworks displays, and family-friendly activities. Some resorts provide backcountry tours, including the opportunity to ski to Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak.
While Australian ski terrain may not match the difficulty of European or North American resorts, it offers a unique blend of skiing and Australian culture. The apres-ski scene has a distinctly laid-back, Aussie vibe, and the possibility of spotting native wildlife like wombats or kangaroos near the snow fields adds an extra layer of excitement to the Australian skiing experience.
12. Off-Slope Activities and Attractions
- 🏔️ Scenic views: Chairlift rides for non-skiers to enjoy alpine vistas
- 🥾 Hiking: Summer trails and guided walks, including to Mount Kosciuszko
- 🚵 Mountain biking: Extensive trail networks in summer months
- 🍷 Après-ski: Vibrant village atmospheres with bars, restaurants, and events
- 🐾 Wildlife spotting: Opportunities to see native animals in alpine environments
During the ski season, visitors can enjoy scenic chairlift rides for breathtaking views of the Australian Alps without hitting the slopes. These rides are particularly popular at resorts like Thredbo and Falls Creek, offering non-skiers a chance to experience the mountain atmosphere.
Thredbo offers guided walks to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak. Falls Creek and Mount Buller are renowned for their extensive mountain biking trail networks.
For nature enthusiasts, the unique Australian alpine environment provides opportunities for wildlife spotting. Visitors might catch glimpses of native animals like wombats, wallabies, and various bird species adapted to the alpine habitat.
Cultural experiences are also available, with some resorts offering insights into Aboriginal heritage and connections to the alpine landscapes. Art exhibitions, galleries, and workshops can be found in resort villages, showcasing local talent and providing creative outlets for visitors.
How many Australian ski resorts are there?
Australia has around 10 major ski resorts and several smaller ski fields. The main resorts are concentrated in the states of New South Wales and Victoria, with a couple of small ski areas in Tasmania.
Where is the best place to snow ski in Australia?
The best places to ski in Australia are generally considered to be Thredbo and Perisher in New South Wales. These resorts offer the largest and most varied terrain, as well as the most reliable snow conditions in the country.
What is the largest ski resort in Australia?
Perisher is the largest ski resort in Australia and the Southern Hemisphere. It covers 3,076 acres of skiable terrain across four interconnected areas: Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega.
What is the most accessible ski resort in Australia?
Mount Buller is often considered the most accessible major ski resort in Australia. It’s located just a three-hour drive from Melbourne, making it a popular choice for weekend trips and day visits.
What is the longest ski run in Australia?
The longest ski run in Australia is the Supertrail at Thredbo, which is 5.9 kilometers long. This run offers a vertical drop of 672 meters, the largest in Australia, and provides a challenging descent for intermediate and advanced skiers.
