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Best time to visit the Snowy Mountains

Hit the slopes during the winter months to experience peak snow.

Alex Keshen
Alex Keshen

Last updated:

Nestled inland between Sydney and Melbourne, the aptly-named Snowy Mountains are where Australians come to play during the winter months.

There are half a dozen ski resorts sitting on both the New South Wales and Victoria sides of the border, including Perisher, Thredbo and Mount Buller.

The best time to visit the Snowy Mountains

July and August.

Why?

The coldest months of the year in Australia, July and August, offer the best snow conditions in the area’s ski resorts. Temperatures at the top of resorts like Thredbo, Mount Buller and Charlotte Pass hover at around freezing during these months.

Overview

The Snowy Mountains is Australia’s premier ski destination. It's where you’ll find Thredbo, Perisher, Selwyn Snowfields, Charlotte Pass, Mount Hotham, Falls Creek, Mount Buller and Mount Baw Baw. These resorts can be reached from Canberra in about two and a half hours, from Melbourne in about three hours and from Sydney in about six hours.

July and August is mid-winter in Australia and the prime time to go skiing, as this is when temperatures are low enough to make snow. While ski resorts may still operate during the shoulder months of June and September, going during the peak season will offer more of a selection in runs. Also, lift passes and rental prices aren’t generally cheaper when fewer trails are open.

If you're travelling with children, the July school holidays and weekends will likely also offer more activities for them.

Weather and prices

The best time to visit the Snowy Mountains for the weather: July and August are the coldest months, during which snow is most likely to fall.

The cheapest time to visit the Snowy Mountains: For skiing, the shoulder months of June and October offer cheaper hotel prices and have the most deals available. While ticket and rental prices won’t change much during the season, most resorts to offer discounts for booking in advance.

Charlotte Pass with snow transport and lunch
Charlotte Pass with snow transport and lunch

Groupon

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The best time to visit the Snowy Mountains for...

  • Skiing: The coldest months, July and August. This is when you'll get the most snowfall and when resorts can make snow.
  • Hiking: The summer months, December to February. Being higher up, the temperatures tend to be cooler and more comfortable, making outdoor activities easier.
  • Horse riding: This is available all year, but if you’d like to experience it in the snow, go between June and October. If you’re doing a multi-day horse trek involving camping, the summer months are the most comfortable for sleeping in a tent.

Image: Thredbo

Hot travel deals

Groupon Groupon

Up to 20% off Mt Baw Baw ski holiday

Available for travel until 31 May 2020. Includes accommodation and more. T&Cs apply.

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Expedia.com.au Expedia.com.au

Stay in Jindabyne near Charlotte Pass from $79 per night

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Fly to the Snowy Mountains (Cooma) from just $137 each way

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