Does it Snow in Australia? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Have you ever wondered if there’s snow in Australia? You’re not alone. Many first-time visitors have the same question.
This post explores Australia’s snowy secrets, including snow places in Australia and when it might fall, the top spots for winter sports, and other chilly activities.
Discover the hidden gems of Australia’s snowfields and plan an unforgettable winter adventure. Let’s uncover the magic of Australia snow and help you make the most of your visit.
Does it Snow in Australia?
Yes, it does! While the country is famous for its beaches and sunny weather, some parts experience a chilly snowfall in Australia yearly.
So, where does it snow in Australia? While snow in Australia might seem surprising, the country boasts several regions where snowfall is expected.
The Australian Alps are the primary snowy region, stretching across New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory. They probably have the best snow in Australia!
Within this area, you’ll find the Snowy Mountains, home to popular resorts like Thredbo and Perisher and the Victorian Alps, which include Mount Hotham and Falls Creek.
Occasionally, other areas also experience snowfall. The Blue Mountains near Sydney can see snow in winter, creating picturesque landscapes.
Tasmania, particularly around Mount Wellington and Liawenee, also gets its share of snow, adding to the island’s charm.
When Does It Snow in Australia?
Snow in Australia typically falls from June to September, marking the winter season. During these months, the Australian Alps, Snowy Mountains, and Victorian Alps become winter wonderlands.
July and August are the peak months for snowfall, offering the best conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. These months bring the heaviest and most consistent snowfall, making them the ideal time to plan your snowy adventure in Australia.
So, pack your winter gear and get ready to enjoy these chilly and captivating snow places in Australia.
Top Spots for Winter Sports
❄️ Thredbo
Thredbo is located in the Snowy Mountains and offers a vibrant village atmosphere. Its various slopes are suitable for all skill levels, and it’s known for its long runs and excellent après-ski options.
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 a six-hour drive from Sydney (or a three-hour drive from Canberra).
During the warmer months, Thredbo’s rocky landscape 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. Clinics for riders of all ages and youth mountain bike (MTB) programs are also provided.
❄️ Perisher
In the Snowy Mountains, Perisher is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere. It features varied terrain, catering to beginners and experts alike, with extensive facilities and ski schools.
The ski resort is located in Kosciuszko National Park. It has 1,245 acres of skiable terrain spread over four different resort areas, making it 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 offer visitors many alternatives for passing the time.
❄️ Mount Buller
If you thought it never snowed in Australia, think again. During the snowy months of the year, Mount Buller is a popular tourist destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports.
Mount Buller is famous for alpine hiking and mountain riding in summer. It is just a few hours’ drive northeast of Melbourne, making it a popular destination for city residents looking to escape the humdrum of city life for a long weekend.
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 for seasonal jobs. Those who have grown up in snowy climates will find this a fantastic spot to indulge in their snowy hobby.
If you need a break from the action, pubs and restaurants are within walking distance. The Sculpture Walk Park is a fantastic place for families to spend the day.
❄️ 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.
❄️ Mount Hotham
Mount Hotham is renowned in the Victorian Alps for its challenging runs and unique village at the summit. It provides stunning alpine scenery and diverse skiing experiences.
❄️ Blue Mountains
Families flock to Blue Mountains National Park during the colder months to enjoy the snow. For many years, the Blue Mountains have become a spectacular winter wonderland, drawing crowds of tourists from far and wide.
The Blue Mountains are Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, just an hour’s drive from Sydney. Kanangra-Boyd National Park, in particular, offers 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 only five days and falls in August. That being said, you should check the forecast before coming.
❄️ 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 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 must settle in and enjoy the area’s natural beauty 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.
❄️ Mount Wellington/ Kunanyi
Kunanyi/Mount Wellington is a beautiful site that is open during the winter. There are some fantastic short hikes to be had there, but you should be prepared for difficult alpine conditions and 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.
When bushwalking, an abundance of birds may be seen. This area has many vantage points, such as Chalet, Pinnacle Road, and Springs.
❄️ Cradle Mountain
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, such as hiking, heli-hiking, and canyon exploring. I wrote an article detailing more attractions around Cradle Mountain that you may read if interested.
Fun Things to Do in Snow in Australia
1. Hiking
Australia offers a plethora of options for winter trekking. The fact that there is a place to go where it is hot and humid will relieve anybody who dislikes the summer.
Located in northern Australia, the almost 20,000 square kilometre Kakadu National Park is a treasured natural area designated as a World Heritage Site.
Over 280 kinds of birds and over 2,000 plant species live in Kakadu, and a walk around the park is a great chance to see them all and fulfil your inner nature lover.
Spending the winter hiking to hidden gorges, cooling down in the water after a hard day of exploring, or experiencing the spray of fresh water as it cascades down red cliffs is not a terrible idea.
Over 40,000 years of Aboriginal history and culture are on exhibit, including rare examples of ancient rock art. On foot, you may explore the wonders of Kakadu while avoiding the crowds of tourists and on 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 dealing 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, Mount Bogong is a popular site for bushwalkers and hikers who wish to take in the scenery in the snow. Near the 16-kilometre mark, you’ll see some 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 Falls Creek’s expansive backcountry and breathtaking alpine setting. You can take the wheel or just ride 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 with kids at Alpine National Park 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.
What’s even more exciting is that, 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. They provide a chance to pet, play with the Huskies, and take pictures with them and their owners.
5. Toboggan rides
A toboggan is a small sled used for sliding down snowy hills. It’s a great winter activity for kids.
When it snows in Australia, one traditional way for families to have fun is to use toboggans and miniature sleds to slide down hills. Selwyn Snow Resort, Corin Forest, Mt. Buller, Mt. Baw Baw, and Falls Creek are just a few examples of alpine parks that offer 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 various 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 offering full—and half-day adventures to climbers of all ability levels, from 4-year-olds to 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. If you’re lucky, you could see some local animals as you tee off.
Typically, the season kicks up in November, when the cold of winter has begun to ease.
9. Camping
Australia has some beautiful snowy camp locations, so bundle up and go camping with the gang this winter. Camping in the winter has 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, fewer people are around, and your kids could even get lucky and see snow if you go to the right place.
For instance, the Discovery Holiday Park is on the shores of picturesque Lake Jindabyne. During heavy snowfall years, it acquires a beautiful coating of snow.
You may choose how rustic you want your stay to be by choosing from various 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 Thredbo and Perisher seaming snow-filled activities with your family. I have an article you can check if you’re looking for extra camping options for the upcoming holiday season.
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.
The three-day retreats include sunrise yoga, guided walks, swimming in icy rock pools, meditation, relaxation, and healthy eating.
In addition, if the idea of a retreat doesn’t appeal to you or you 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.
Travel Tips for Visiting Snowy Regions
Best times to visit: The best time to visit Australia’s snowy regions is from June to September, with July and August offering peak snowfall.
What to pack for a snow trip
✔️ Pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy boots.
✔️ Don’t forget gloves, beanies, and scarves.
✔️ Consider packing sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against glare from the snow.
Accommodation options in snowy areas
Many resorts, such as those in Thredbo, Perisher, and Mount Buller, offer various accommodation options. Here are a few options
Thredbo: Snowgoose Apartments, Pure Chalet Thredbo
Perisher: Eiger Chalet, Studio Loft 19
Falls Creek: Diana Alpine Lodge, Snow Ski Apartments 05
Mount Buller: Buller Central Hotel, Mt Buller Chalet Hotel & Suites
Personal Anecdotes and Recommendations
My first experience seeing snow was in Thredbo in 2020. I remember trying to hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, but we had to turn back because it was too windy.
Despite that, the chairlift in Thredbo was a highlight – it was fun and exciting, offering stunning views of the snowy landscape.
I recommend dressing in layers and being prepared for changing weather conditions for first-time visitors. Try the chairlift for a memorable experience, and consider taking ski lessons if you’re new to winter sports.
Frequently Asked Questions: Snow in Australia
What Months Does It Snow In Australia?
Snow falls in Australia primarily from June to September. During these winter months, the Australian Alps and other high-altitude areas, such as the Snowy Mountains and the Victorian Alps, experience significant snowfall, creating perfect conditions for winter sports and snowy adventures.
Which Part Of Australia Has Snow?
The Australian Alps, which span New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory, have snow.
The Snowy Mountains, Victorian Alps, and resorts like Thredbo, Perisher, and Mount Hotham are key areas. Occasionally, higher altitudes like the Blue Mountains and Tasmania also experience snowfall.
Does It Snow In Sydney Or Melbourne?
It does not snow in Sydney or Melbourne. These cities have mild winters, with temperatures rarely dropping low enough for snow.
However, nearby regions like the Blue Mountains near Sydney and the Victorian Alps near Melbourne do receive snowfall during winter, offering accessible snowy getaways from the cities.
What Is The Winter Like In Australia?
Winter in Australia varies by region.
In the southern parts, including cities like Melbourne and Adelaide, winters are cool and wet, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. In snowy regions like the Australian Alps, winter brings significant snowfall and cold temperatures perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
Northern Australia, however, remains warm and dry, experiencing a more tropical climate during winter.
What Is The Coldest Month In Australia?
The coldest month in Australia is typically July. During this time, temperatures in the southern regions, including Melbourne and Adelaide, can drop to around 5°C, and the snowfields in the Australian Alps experience their peak snowfall, making it the best time for winter sports.
What Is The Coldest City In Australia?
The coldest city in Australia is Liawenee, Tasmania. Known for its Great Lake, Liawenee experiences the chilliest temperatures among inhabited areas in the country.
It can get extremely cold in winter, often dropping below freezing. Its high elevation and location contribute to its cold climate, making it Australia’s coldest permanently inhabited town.
Ready to Experience Snow in Australia?
Yes, it does snow in Australia, especially in the Australian Alps and other high-altitude regions.
Winter months from June to September offer perfect conditions for snow activities. Whether you’re interested in skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying a snowy landscape, Australia has something for you.
Ready to explore more about Australia? Check out my other posts for more travel tips and hidden gems!
