Snowy Mountains

The Snowy Mountains are a highland region in southeastern New South Wales, Australia, forming the highest part of the Australian mainland. The range includes the continent’s tallest mainland peak and is the principal alpine area on the east coast.

The area contains Mount Kosciuszko, the mainland summit at 2,228 metres, along with a network of walking tracks, alpine lakes and plateaus. Winter brings downhill and cross-country ski operations at major resorts such as Perisher and Thredbo, while summer draws hikers and cyclists to marked trails and scenic summits.

The high country has long been used by Indigenous Australian groups; European exploration and pastoral use expanded from the 19th century. During the 20th century the region developed as an organised alpine recreation area with road access, resorts and national park protection focused on conservation and tourism.

The Snowy Mountains lie in southern New South Wales as part of the Great Dividing Range, occupying high ground above surrounding lowlands and plateaus. The area is accessed by road from regional towns and from the broader southeast Australia corridor.

• Seasonality: Ski season typically runs from June to October in the high country, while alpine walking and wildflower displays attract visitors in summer.
• Access to the summit: The highest point on the Australian mainland is reached by a well-marked walking track of a few kilometres from a nearby trailhead, suitable for most fit walkers.

What to See #

• Mount Kosciuszko: The highest point of mainland Australia at 2,228 metres, forming part of the Main Range within the park and attracting hikers along established trails.
• Perisher and Thredbo ski areas: Perisher and Thredbo are major alpine resort areas offering downhill skiing, lift systems and summer hiking access to high-country trails.
• Kosciuszko National Park: Kosciuszko National Park protects large tracts of the range, offering alpine walking tracks, cross-country skiing and access to glacial lakes and high plains.