The Australian Snowy Mountains is a bustling region filled with dramatic mountain tops and breathtaking ravines. With its long list of things to do, it can be a truly memorable holiday packed with adventure or tranquil solitude, whichever your preference.

In winter it’s the domain of skiers and snowboarders, and in summer it’s handed over to hikers and mountain bikers. There is something going on all year round in this thriving town, so here’s our top list of Snowy Mountains things to do. 

1. Hike Mount Kosciuszko

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Once the snow has defrosted in the warmer months, local hiking trails are an adventurous way to explore the region’s beautiful scenery, and the Mount Koscuisko Walk is amongst the most popular. 

The walk to the summit winds above Australia’s highest lake, Lake Cootapatamba and can be hiked between November and May. 

In Thredbo, you can board the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift to the start of the Kosciuszko walk. From here, the walk is a 13km return and takes around 5 hours. The alternative summit walk departs from Charlotte Pass and is an 18.6km return and takes approximately 8 hours. 

Nature lovers, get your cameras ready for the glorious views of Australia’s highest mountains, historic huts, weathered snow gums and rock formations along the way.

2. Visit The Award-Winning Perisher Ski Resort 

Pinned Australia’s Best Ski Resort a handful of times, Perisher is one of the Snowy Mountains attractions not to be missed.

Located in the Kosciuszko National Park, the ski resort boasts 1,245h of skiable terrain across four resort areas – Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega. Making it the largest alpine resort in the southern hemisphere. 

With 4 resort areas on offer, it has fantastic skiing and snowboarding options for all ages and ability levels from first-timers right up to experts. It features 110 trails with a good amount of beginner, intermediate and expert runs accessible.

The ski season in the Snowy Mountains opens every year on the June long weekend and runs until the October long weekend. There is a wide range of accommodation, cosy restaurants, cool cafés, and shops making activity options plentiful. 

3. White Spider Restaurant and Bar

White Spider restaurant and bar is Perishers’ finest on-snow experience for guests to wine, dine and unwind. 

This cosy hidden gem serves breakfast and dinner in the winter months with a dynamic ambience, a delicious dining experience and perfectly matched wines. Whether you ski in for an afternoon aprè and stay for dinner, or book for a special occasion, it will be a memorable experience even so.

Featuring cosy booths, round tables and a brilliant bar it’s an atmosphere that will have you transported to Austria or the Swiss Alps in a flash. 

4. Stop by Mid Station at Mid Perisher Centre

Mid Station is a scenic mountainside restaurant, perfect for a pit stop with family and friends. It’s famous for its tasty hot chocolates and delicious heartwarming meals and beers from all over the world that will perk you up. 

If you’re not quite ready to race back to the slopes, take a wander next door into snow zone gifts and gear. Grab some snow essentials and souvenirs while you digest your lunchtime feast. 

5. Indulge in Schnapps tasting at Wild Brumby Distillery 

A visit to Wild Brumby Distillery is the perfect way to spend a day off and relax after days spent adventuring the mountains.

The Wild Brumby Distillery is located along the picturesque Alpine Way between Jindabyne and Thredbo. The distillery is renowned for its flavourful Australian schnapps, including pink lady apple, pear William, peach, butterscotch and hot chilli.

The 20-acre property features a cellar door, a fully licensed cafe and a working raspberry farm. Whilst you’re there, see the beautiful brass distilling equipment from Germany and try out some of the schnapps made on-site from locally sourced fruits.

6. Jindabyne Brewing 

If you like beer, a visit to Jindabyne Brewing is a brilliant idea. Situated at Nettin Circuit in Jindabyne, Jindabyne Brewing is a microbrewery with glorious views overlooking the lake.

Whether you enjoy a pilsner, a lager, or a pale ale, there are 4 in-house brews to quench your thirst and enjoy. All beers are brewed from the fresh local water and go down a treat after a day of hiking, riding, fishing or a skiing session. Offering up a hearty tapas menu that rotates seasonally, there really is no better combination than tapas and beer on tap!

7. Visit Lake Jindabyne 

As you drive into Jindabyne, taking in the beauty of the alpine scenery, it’s hard to miss Lake Jindabyne that sits front and centre and is surrounded by so much adventure. 

If you are a keen walker, a stroll along the purpose-built footpath is an easy walk that is roughly 3.5 km / 1.5 hours depending on your fitness level. The path is a shared trail and can be used to ride bikes, skateboards and wheelchairs. 

The Lake is also a lovely fishing spot with plenty of fishing areas. From Brown trout, Rainbow trout, Brook trout to Atlantic Salmon there is something to be hooked on. 

If you’re looking for low key activities in the warmer months, a balmy swim in the lake, standup paddleboarding or a picture-perfect picnic lakeside could be a great way to spend your Snowy Mountains holidays. 

If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay in the Snowy Mountains, look no further than Eiger Chalet, one of the original boutique ski Chalets in Perisher. As your hosts, we can assure you a fantastic ski holiday and would be delighted to welcome you this snow season.