Does it Snow in Australia? (2024)
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Australia is often seen in one’s imagination as a land of red deserts, sandy beaches, and azure oceans. Though it may surprise you, snow may fall in the southern mountains from June through August.
Although snow is not a common occurrence throughout the country, there are locations in Australia where it does fall each winter. Travelling south, those who yearn for a white winter might discover a plethora of options to satiate their desires.
Indeed, the snow season in Australia is an excellent time for families, and there are many activities to enjoy together. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or go deeper into the icy wilderness, places like NSW, Tasmania, and Victoria have become a hub of snow-filled activities.
Not to mention, there are more locations to see snow in Australia than you may expect, making it an attractive destination whether you’re a snowboarder, skier, or just looking for a winter break. Now that winter is approaching, and the thought of snow is occupying our minds, I have compiled a list of the most important sites in Australia to experience snow for yourself.
Best Places to See Snow in Australia
These top spots to see snow in Australia are perfect for braving the cold this season while enjoying the warmth of a fireplace and the beautiful blue colours of nature.
- Perisher
Perisher is one of the Snowy Mountains must-sees and has been voted Australia’s best ski resort several times.
In particular, the ski resort is located in Kosciuszko National Park. It has 1,245 acres of skiable terrain spread over four different resort areas. As so, it is the most prominent mountain resort in the southern hemisphere.
Every year, the Snowy Mountains’ ski season kicks out on the June long weekend and continues until the October long weekend. Numerous inns, cafes, and boutiques provide visitors with a wealth of alternatives for passing the time.
Where To Stay: Eiger Chalet, Studio Loft 19
2. Blue Mountains
Families flock to Blue Mountains National Park during the colder months to enjoy the snow. The Blue Mountains become a spectacular winter wonderland most years, drawing crowds of tourists from far and wide.
The Blue Mountains are one of Australia’s most popular tourist locations, and they’re just an hour’s drive from Sydney. In particular, ‘ Kanangra-Boyd National Park is home to breathtaking scenery.
Snowball battles are great fun in Memorial Park, Sutton Park, and Blackheath Oval in the Blue Mountains. The Rhododendron Gardens in Blackheath are a great option if you’re looking for a lovely place to wander on a snowy day. There’s a lot of room for the kids to run around in, and it’s completely free.
Unfortunately, winter weather here lasts no more than five days and falls in August. That being said, you should check the forecast before coming.
Where To Stay: Palais Royale, Carrington Hotel
3. Oberon
Even on Christmas Day, the skies over Oberon may turn white, providing the perfect opportunity to build a snowman or capture some great shots.
There are often three or four significant snowfalls every winter in this region. After a snowstorm, the higher elevations in our area can have snow cover for up to 24 hours. A week’s worth of snowfall is possible after a severe snowstorm or many days of precipitation.
Oberon, approximately two hours from Sydney, is one of the most incredible locations to visit if you want a peaceful winter atmosphere. Since there is no ski resort, you will have to settle with enjoying the natural beauty of the area while warming up by the fire.
The chilly, howling winds of winter are something I haven’t experienced very often in Australia; they provide an excellent excuse to cozy up with a mug of anything hot after a stroll through the woods or along the lake’s edge.
Where To Stay: Highlands Motor Inn, Jenolan Caravan Park Oberon
4. Thredbo
It is one of the great locations to see snow close to Sydney, and as such, it should be at the top of your list. Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels will enjoy Thredbo. The town’s many on- and off-mountain eateries and watering holes add to the experience.
If you want to go snow skiing in New South Wales, Thredbo is the place to go. It has first-rate lodging and is just six hour drive from Sydney (or three hour drive from Canberra).
During the warmer months, the rocky landscape of Thredbo is transformed into the Thredbo Mountain Bike Park, where dirt ribbons wind down the hillside through the rocky scrub and are accessible by chairlift.
The interconnected system of cross-country trails offers routes appropriate for cyclists of all experience levels. Also provided are clinics for riders of all ages and youth mountain bike (MTB) programs.
Where To Stay: Snowgoose Apartments, Pure Chalet Thredbo
5. Mount Buller
If you thought it never snowed in Australia, think again. Mount Buller is a popular tourist destination in Australia for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports during the snowy months of the year.
The mountain is famous for alpine hiking and mountain riding during the summer months. Mount Buller is a popular destination for city residents looking to escape the humdrum of city life for a long weekend since it is just a few hours’ drive northeast of Melbourne.
Skiers and snowboarders from the surrounding area were among the first to enjoy Mount Buller once it opened as a resort mountain and hamlet during winter. The mountain has come a long way since then, with more trails, year-round appeal, and even housing the National Alpine Museum.
It’s no secret that many people with Working Holiday Visas come to Mount Buller during the summer in search of seasonal jobs. Those who have grown up in snowy climates will find this a fantastic spot to indulge in their snowy hobby.
Any pubs and restaurants are within walking distance if you need a break from the action. The Sculpture Walk Park is a fantastic place for families to spend the day.
Where To Stay: Buller Central Hotel, Mt Buller Chalet Hotel & Suites
6. Falls Creek
In the winter, Falls Creek transforms into a picturesque alpine community with snow-covered streets, gnarled snow gums, and panoramic vistas of the rugged landscape.
In the winter, Falls Creek transforms into a picturesque alpine community with snow-covered streets, gnarled snow gums, and panoramic vistas of the rugged landscape. Falls Creek is a tiny resort town in the Victorian Alps, 350 kilometres from Melbourne.
The city is a popular tourist destination because of the variety of things to do. It is located at an altitude of 5840 feet above sea level, and it experiences snow throughout the winter.
Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels may take advantage of Victoria’s most extensive snow-producing facilities and the city’s most profound and steepest slopes.
Get your blood pumping on the steep downhills, have fun in the terrain parks, learn about the backcountry double blacks from an Olympic skier from Australia, or let the little ones shriek with glee on the toboggan runs.
Where To Stay: Diana Alpine Lodge, Snow Ski Apartments 05
7. Mount Wellington/ Kunanyi
Kunanyi/Mount Wellington is a beautiful site in the winter. There are some fantastic short hikes to be had there, but you should be prepared for difficult alpine conditions. You should allow yourself enough time to accomplish your walk safely. Snow and ice may make driving conditions treacherous on the mountain.
Wellington Park, located atop Mount Wellington, is a beautiful green space. The park is excellent for rock climbing, bush trekking, horseback riding, and long walks.
An abundance of birds may be seen when out on a bushwalking adventure. Many vantage points, such as Chalet, Pinnacle Road, and Springs, can be found in this area.
Where To Stay: Pipeline Chalet, Hobart Hideaways Pods
The Overland Track begins at Cradle Mountain, part of the Wilderness World Heritage Area. It is located in Lake St. Clair National Park (a four-hour drive from Hobart). The fact that it sometimes snows despite the ban on skiing is not something to be disregarded.
The winter wonderland is well-known for its beauty and the abundance of activities available there, such as hiking, heli-hiking, and canyon exploring. I wrote a whole article detailing more attractions around Cradle Mountain that you may read if you are interested.
Where To Stay: Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village, Cradle Mountain Hotel
Fun Things to do in Snow in Australia
- Hiking
When it comes to winter trekking, Australia offers a plethora of options. The fact that there is a place to go where it is hot and humid will relieve anybody who dislikes the summer.
Located in the northern part of Australia, the almost 20,000 square kilometre Kakadu National Park is a treasured natural area designated as a World Heritage Site. There are over 280 kinds of birds and over 2,000 plant species in Kakadu, and a walk around the park is a great chance to see them all and fulfil your inner nature lover.
It’s not a terrible idea to spend the winter hiking to hidden gorges and cooling down in the water there after a hard day of exploring or to experience the spray of fresh water as it cascades down red cliffs.
Over 40,000 years of Aboriginal history and culture are on exhibit, including rare examples of ancient rock art. By foot, you may explore the wonders of Kakadu while avoiding the throngs of tourists and having a one-of-a-kind journey.
2. Snowshoe
Take a snowshoeing trip to Australia’s alpine area. It’s not just for the kids; this is an excellent place for adults to go snowshoeing. You may rent snowshoes at any of the ski shops around.
For one, the Perisher Valley ski resort sees a significant increase in its population during peak tourist periods such as winter vacations and weekend days. However, snowshoeing is the way to go if you want to see the sights without having to deal with the crowds.
There are designated snowshoeing paths in Perisher Valley, and they are well-marked. Exploring the Australian wilderness on snowshoes is a fantastic way to see more of the natural landscape in Perisher Valley.
Moreover, bushwalkers and hikers who wish to take in the scenery in the snow find Mount Bogong a popular site. Near the 16-kilometre mark, you’ll see some very stunning landscapes.
Typically, this guided excursion starts at the Mountain Creek Camp parking lot at the foot of Mount Bogong. This snowshoeing trip will take a whole day, around 9-10 hours.
3. Snowmobile
Taking a snowmobile ride across Australia’s winter scenery is the finest way to see the country in the cold season. Feel free to explore the vast highlands at your leisure. Usually, a maximum of two people may ride on a snowmobile.
Taking a snowmobile tour is an exciting way to discover the expansive backcountry of Falls Creek and its breathtaking alpine setting. You have the option of taking the wheel or just riding a shotgun to take in the scenery.
Views of Mount McKay, The Summit, Frying Pan Spur, Ruined Castle, and the highly windy Road 24, which winds down the back side of The Summit, enable tours to descend to Howman’s Gap.
4. Husky Rides
One of the most incredible things to do at Alpine National Park with kids is to take a husky ride through the snowy landscape. You may ride around the park on the backs of a team of docile huskies. The finest part of the trip has had to be the end when you get to pet the huskies.
In addition, since 2014, trips to Mt. Buller have been offered by Australian Sled Dog Tours. Come along on a once-in-a-lifetime journey with a gregarious pack of Siberian Huskies.
Tours will run continuously throughout the season except for extreme snow or weather. The tours provide a chance to pet and play with the Huskies. Not to mention, take pictures with them and their owners.
5. Toboggan rides
The toboggan is a little sled used for sliding down snowy hills. That’s a great thing to do with kids in the winter.
When it snows in Australia, one of the most traditional ways for families to have fun is to utilize toboggans, miniature sleds used for sliding down hills. Selwyn Snow Resort, Corin Forest, Mt. Buller, Mt. Baw Baw, and Falls Creek are just a few examples of alpine parks that provide tobogganing.
Toboggans may be rented and used on specially designed slopes in the snow play sections of these parks. There’s no better method to get your kids on skis or snowboards.
6. Winter Festivals
During the cold months, Australia’s snowy areas shine with all their glory. Peak Festival, Yulefest, Winter Wonderlights, and the Bathurst Winter Festival are just a few of the many celebrations that may be attended this time of year.
Despite the lack of snow, you may still enjoy a wide variety of winter-themed activities and the upbeat atmosphere created by Christmas lights and music at these celebrations.
7. Abseiling and rock climbing
Discover Thredbo, Australia’s “rooftop,” from a new angle by climbing and abseiling down the granite tors above the resort. K7 Experiences and the Snowy Mountain Climbing School are two local companies that provide full and half-day adventures to climbers of all ability levels, from 4-year-olds and up. Those nervous about abseiling for the first time may practice on the indoor climbing wall at Thredbo Leisure Centre.
8. Golf
Enjoy the crisp mountain air at Thredbo Golf Club, Australia’s highest course. This beautiful nine-hole course winds along the Thredbo River and the foot of the mountain, with eucalyptus trees and wildflowers along the fairways. You could even see some local animals as you tee off if you’re lucky.
Typically, the season kicks up in November, when the cold of winter has begun to ease.
9. Camping
There are some beautiful snowy camp locations in Australia, so bundle up and go camping with the gang this winter. Camping in the winter has its advantages, but it also presents some setbacks, particularly the cold.
The off-season in Australia is ideal for camping since many campgrounds reduce their rates, there are fewer people around, and your kids could even get lucky and see snow if you go to the correct place.
For instance, the Discovery Holiday Park is located right on the shores of picturesque Lake Jindabyne. It does acquire a beautiful coating of snow during heavy snowfall years. You may choose how rustic you want your stay to be by choosing from a variety of cottages and villas, as well as both powered and unpowered sites for your caravan or tent.
Best of all, you’ll be in an ideal location to see both Thredbo and Perisher seaming snow-filled activities with your family. If you’re looking for extra camping options for the upcoming holiday season, I have an article about this that you can check.
10. Yoga retreats
Put on some spandex instead of your cozy sweater and go to the yoga class; you won’t regret it. Attend one of Jindabyne Yoga Shala’s summer wellness retreats and find your centre in the mountains. Sunrise yoga, guided walks, swimming in icy rock pools, meditation, relaxation, and healthy eating are all part of the three-day retreats.
In addition, if the idea of a retreat doesn’t appeal to you or you simply can’t spare three days, you can always go to the Jindabyne shala (about 30 minutes away by car) for a yoga lesson or an infrared sauna session.
Snow in Australia Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What months does it snow in Australia?
The Australian winter officially lasts from June to August. However, in the harsher regions, snowfall is possible in May and even into October.
Indeed, Australia’s winter snow season is notoriously erratic. The majority of the annual snowfall occurs in the winter and amounts to barely 4 inches on average. Hence, if you want to see snow in Australia, you’ll have to make your way to southern Victoria or Tasmania.
How cold can it get in Australia?
From June to August, Australia has three winter months each year. Although snowfall is not common throughout the country during this season, the weather is often colder. This means there are certain places you’ll need to visit if you want to see snow.
In fact, several weeks after the winter solstice in June, July usually is when much of Australia experiences the lowest night and day temperatures. Not to mention, during the Australian winter, temperatures may plummet to a chilly 5 degrees Celsius, so pack accordingly.
Conclusion: Snow in Australia
People often wrongly assume there is no snow in Australia. To most of us, building a snowman in the middle of a cold Australian winter is not something we would ever consider doing. While it’s true that not everything in the Great Southern Land has snow, there are plenty of picturesque spots that are ideal for a winter getaway.
Indeed, it’s the best time of year to enjoy the snowy slopes, a hike in the forest, and the celebrations that only a white Christmas can offer. While you may be tempted to remain indoors during winter, I hope these top-notch options should change your mind.
