Australian Alps snow forecast

Skiing in Australian Alps

The Australian Alps are the high country of south-east Australia, where the mainland's ski resorts sit on rounded ranges topping out near Mount Kosciuszko (2,228 m), the highest peak on the mainland. The resorts are low by world standards, with lifts mostly between about 1,400 m and 2,037 m, and snowfall varies a great deal from one winter to the next. Long-term records show a gradual decline in snow depth, so every major resort now relies on snowmaking to secure its main runs. The season usually runs from June to early October, with July and August the most reliable months.

In the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, Perisher is the largest ski area in the Southern Hemisphere, spread across several linked valleys including Smiggin Holes and Blue Cow, which have wide, gentle beginner terrain. The Skitube railway from Bullocks Flat reaches Perisher and Blue Cow. Thredbo has the greatest vertical in Australia, around 670 m, and the country's longest run, about 5.9 km, with mostly intermediate terrain and a beginner area at Friday Flat. Canberra is around two hours' drive away.

In the Victorian Alps, Mt. Buller, about three hours from Melbourne, has terrain for every level. Falls Creek is the largest resort in Victoria, with a car-free, ski-in ski-out village and a dedicated beginner zone at Drovers. Hotham has little beginner terrain but is known for steep runs and its expert reputation.

Weather here can change quickly, and rain or wind can affect the lower runs even in mid-winter, so comparing the two states on the same day is often worthwhile.