Skiing & snowboarding in NSW

It's time to dust off your skis and snowboard – the ski season is here! Now is the time to start planning a snowy escape this winter, but there are a few things you should know before you go. On these pages, you can explore NSW’s ski resorts, plan your perfect trip and find a place to stay.

Perisher

The largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, Perisher has something for everyone. Spread across four areas – Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega – it has 47 lifts, plenty of runs, five terrain parks and over 100km of cross country trails.

Explore Perisher
Gum leaves in Perisher - Snowy Mountains
Perisher Ski Resort - Snowy Mountains
Sunrise in Blue Cow - Perisher
Skiing in Perisher - Snowy Mountains
Taking in the view at Perisher - Snowy Mountains

Thredbo

In Thredbo you can ski Australia’s longest runs, ring the bell at the country’s highest lifted point or ride on the Merritts Gondola, the only one of its kind. The pretty Alpine village at the base of the mountain is full of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops.

Explore Thredbo
A family warming up with hot chocolates at Thredbo ski resort in the Snowy Mountains
A couple snowshoeing by their campsite through Dead Horse Gap, Thredbo in the Snowy Mountains
Friends building a snowman at Thredbo in the NSW Snowy Mountains
Skiing on Thredbo slopes, Snowy Mountains
Skier in Thredbo - Kosciuszko National Park

Charlotte Pass

Australia’s highest ski field, Charlotte Pass is a boutique resort that’s perfect for families. It’s snowbound in winter and the only way to get there is on an over-snow trip from Perisher. You can also make a snowshoe climb to the top of Mount Kosciuszko.

Explore Charlotte Pass
Charlotte Pass Ski Resort - Kosciuszko National Park
Summer in Charlotte Pass and Lookout, Snowy Mountains
A couple heading out to ski at Charlottes Pass in the Snowy Mountains
Blue skies and apres ski activities at the Charlotte Pass Snow Resort, Kosciuszko National Park
Ski lesson in Charlotte Pass

Hit the slopes

Hit the slopes

From first tracks at sunrise to fresh powder on backcountry trails and evenings by the fire, every day is an adventure in the Snowy Mountains.

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Skiing & snowboarding in NSW FAQs

When does the ski season start and end in NSW?

When does the ski season start and end in NSW?

Generally, the ski season starts on the June long weekend and runs until October. The peak season and the best snow is usually found in July and August. 
What are the biggest differences between Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass?

What are the biggest differences between Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass?

Thredbo is a compact resort with a good variety of runs, including Australia’s longest and highest ski runs. There’s also a great area for kids and beginners, Friday Flat. It is the only resort to have a substantial Alpine village at the base of the mountain with accommodation, shops, restaurants and bars.

Perisher is the largest resort, with four separate ski areas and three times as many runs as Thredbo. It’s great for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. It is also easy to access from Jindabyne with the Skitube Railway running from Bullocks Flat.

Charlotte Pass is the smallest resort and the only one that is completely snowbound in winter. You will stay in one of the lodges at the base of the runs and get to look out over the snow at night.
What should I pack for my ski/snowboarding trip?

What should I pack for my ski/snowboarding trip?

If you’ve never been skiing or snowboarding, it’s a good idea to hire your clothing and equipment. There are hire shops in Jindabyne and Cooma, and at all the resorts. It is compulsory for children to wear a helmet on the slopes and recommended for adults too.

Obviously, it gets very cold in the Snowy Mountains. Pack lots of layers, including thermals if you have them. You will also need sunscreen and a good pair of sunglasses or ski goggles as the sun’s reflection off the snow can be harsh.

Find more tips for first time skiers and boarders here.
How do I get to the ski resorts?

How do I get to the ski resorts?

There are many ways to get to the Snowy Mountains and the ski resorts. The drive from Sydney to Jindabyne is around five hours or just over two hours from Canberra. You can also fly into Snowy Mountains Airport in Cooma, a one-hour drive from the resorts. You will need to take special care when driving on snowy or icy roads – read these tips first.

You can drive or take a shuttle to Thredbo and park at the base of the mountain. For Perisher, drive up to the resort or catch the Skitube from Bullocks Flat. To get to Charlotte Pass you will need to take over-snow transport from Perisher.

Plan your trip

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