Skiing in the Snowy Mountains, NSW
The Snowy Mountains are home to Australia’s best skiing and snowboarding, with four ski resorts spread across Kosciuszko National Park in South Eastern NSW. Whether you’re a first-timer looking for beginner-friendly slopes or an experienced skier chasing the longest runs in the country, the Snowy Mountains has a resort to suit.
Jindabyne is the main gateway town for the ski resorts and the most popular base for a Snowy Mountains ski holiday — centrally located, with a wide range of holiday accommodation at a fraction of resort prices.
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Which Ski Resorts Are in the Snowy Mountains?
The Snowy Mountains has four ski resorts, all within Kosciuszko National Park:
| Resort | Best For | Distance from Jindabyne | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thredbo | Intermediate–Advanced skiers, longest runs | 35 min | Jun–Oct |
| Perisher | All levels, families, largest resort | 35 min via Skitube | Jun–Oct |
| Charlotte Pass | Quiet, snowbound escape, intermediate skiers | 55 min | Jun–Oct |
| Selwyn Snow Resort | Beginners, families, day trips | 90 min | Jun–Sep |
Thredbo
Thredbo offers the longest ski runs in Australia, with varied terrain that suits all skill levels — from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs. Beyond the slopes, Thredbo village has cafés, restaurants, and bars for après-ski.
Staying in Jindabyne gives you easy access to Thredbo (35 minutes along the Alpine Way) without paying on-mountain accommodation prices. These properties are well-positioned for a Thredbo ski trip:
Perisher
Perisher is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, spanning four linked areas — Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega — with 47 lifts and over 100km of cross-country trails. It’s one of the most family-friendly resorts in Australia, with strong beginner and kids’ programs.
Most visitors staying in Jindabyne access Perisher via the Skitube — an underground train from Bullocks Flat that eliminates the need to drive or carry chains to the resort. These Jindabyne properties make a great Perisher base:
Charlotte Pass
Charlotte Pass is Australia’s highest and most remote ski resort, accessible only by over-snow transport in winter. It offers a quieter, more intimate experience than Thredbo or Perisher, with runs that suit intermediate skiers and families wanting a less crowded environment. Those planning more than a day visit will need to look at on-snow accommodation at Charlotte Pass directly.
Selwyn Snow Resort
Selwyn is the most accessible and affordable of the Snowy Mountains resorts, located in the northern ranges around 90 minutes from Jindabyne. It’s best suited to families, beginners, and those making their first snow trip, with gentle terrain and a relaxed atmosphere.
Which Snowy Mountains Resort Is Best for Beginners?
Selwyn Snow Resort is the most beginner-friendly option — affordable, low-pressure, and well set up for first-timers and children. Perisher is also excellent for beginners, with a large dedicated learning area and one of the best ski schools in Australia. Thredbo has a beginner zone but the majority of the mountain is geared toward intermediate and advanced skiers.
When Does Ski Season Start in the Snowy Mountains?
The official ski season opens on the June long weekend (the King’s Birthday long weekend in NSW) and runs through to early October. Peak snowfall is typically in July and August. Snow conditions vary year to year — some seasons deliver heavy early snowfall, others build slowly through July.
Booking tip: July school holidays are the busiest and most expensive time to visit. If your dates are flexible, the shoulder weeks of June and September offer better value and fewer crowds, with perfectly good snow conditions.
How Much Does a Ski Holiday in the Snowy Mountains Cost?
The biggest cost variables are accommodation, lift passes, and ski hire. Staying in Jindabyne rather than on-resort is the most effective way to reduce costs — accommodation is significantly cheaper, and you’re still within 35 minutes of Thredbo and Perisher.
Ski and snowboard hire is available in Jindabyne, Berridale, and Cooma on your way through. Hiring gear before you reach the resort is cheaper than hiring at the mountain. Options include:
Cooma
Snowy Mountains Sports in Cooma
Berridale
Jindabyne
The Base Ski and Snowboard Centre in Jindabyne
The Shed Ski Hire in Jindabyne
Jindabyne Ski Hire in Jindabyne
Do I Need Snow Chains in the Snowy Mountains?
Yes. Snow chains are compulsory on alpine roads between June and October. All vehicles must carry chains at all times in the alpine area and fit them when directed by road signs or Transport NSW staff. Chain hire is available in Jindabyne and Cooma. Check NSW Transport road conditions before you travel.
Where to Stay for a Snowy Mountains Ski Holiday
Jindabyne is the most popular and cost-effective base for skiing in the Snowy Mountains. It sits 35 minutes from both Thredbo and Perisher, with a wide range of holiday houses, apartments, and chalets to suit every group size and budget.
To learn more, checkout our Snowy Mountains Guide.
2026 Winter Stays — Minimum Stay Special: For bookings in July and August, 2-night weekend stays and 3-night midweek stays are available. In June and September, minimum stay drops to 2 nights any day of the week. Learn more →
