Summer in the Snowies is nothing short of spectacular. With incredible views at every turn, it’s the ideal place for a weekend or week out of the city and is easily accessible from Syndey, Melbourne and Canberra. Being based at the foot of the mountains, we’ve had plenty of time to explore so here are our top tips on what to do, where to stay and what to eat/ drink.

Bush walking in the pristine alpine National Park is like no other in NSW. Unlike a lot of other national parks, it also doesn’t get too busy in summer so you can get your fill of nature without being disturbed. Our favourite hikes are the:

1) Thredbo To Mount Kosciuszko Summit- you can have bragging rights for this one as Mount Kosci is officially the highest point in Australia. For an extra special hike, check the dates of the Full Moon Hikes - a truly unforgettable experience.2) The Main Range Loop - if you’re looking for next-level views, this is our recommendation. There’s the opportunity for some backcountry camping on the way too .3) Illawong Bridge Track - a great option if you want a shorter trail for all ages to enjoy. It’s worth the walk for the bridge alone but there’s also heaps of wildlife en route.

From full-on downhill mountain biking at Thredbo to gentle family fun rides along Lake Jindabyne there is a bike ride for everyone. The Snowy Mountains are the mecca for family bike adventures. There’s also lots of races and mountain biking events throughout the summer. If you’re looking for trail recommendations, our team have suggested their favourites here, or if you’re keen to see a race in action, take a look at:

Thredbo Gravity Series

When: Various dates, starting on Saturday 16 December until Saturday 27 April

Who’s it for? All levels of MTB rider - perfect for your first race!

More details: thredbo.com.au/events/thredbo-gravity-series/

Cannonball MTB Festival

When: Monday 12 - Saturday 17 Feb, 2024’

Who’s it for? This ones for the pros but it’s worth going to as a spectator if you have the time. With first class entertainment - DJs, bands, as well as some of the biggest names in the mountain biking World - you’re set for an awesome weekend.

More details: thredbo.com.au/cannonballfestival/

Snowies Mountain Bike Festival

When: 9-11 February 2024

Who’s it for? It's not one for your first race, but great if you’ve got a couple under your belt and you want a challenge, check out the Snowies MTB Festival. The festival has great options for accommodation as well as after-race relaxation.

More details: in2adventure.com.au/event/snowies-mountain-bike-festival/

If you’re a roadie, there’s also the Snowy Classic starting out from the shores of Lake Jindabyne.

See the mountains the way Banjo Patterson did! On horseback, you and your family can experience a unique perspective deep in the country with Thredbo Valley Horse Riding.

The Snowies are famous for their wild brumbies so you’ll really be at one with nature on your ride.

If you’ve already caught the bug and are keen to spend more time in the saddle, there are also multi-day treks with Cochran Horse Treks.

Thredbo River and Jindabyne are a hive of sporting activity. From a relaxing day of fishing or stand-up paddle boarding to the adrenaline of water skiing, there’s something for every member of the family.

Looking for something guided? you can checkout flyfishing lessons along the Thredbo River or rent kayaks from Boss Outdoors or Sacred Ride located at the waterfront in Jindabyne

With a major surge in domestic travel the accommodation industry has risen to the challenge and the Snowy Mountains offer a huge range of options from basic camping, affordable lodges and luxury stays to ensure you see the alpine region whatever your holiday style is.

We've selected some of our favourite places on offer in Jindabyne, Thredbo and the Alpine Way. No matter how you choose to stay in the Snowy Mountains you're in for an unforgettable experience.

Groups can often find discount accommodation during summer as there is an abundance of accommodation options from self-contained, hotels, lodges and all-inclusive resort style with dinners or breakfast options. With the majority of traffic visiting the region during the snow season plenty of accommodaiton providers offer big discounts on off peak travel times.

You will still see towns buzzing with travellers throughout holiday periods so if you want to travel then be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.

After an epic hike or ride, the best way to wind down is a drink with family and friends, and the Snowies are blessed with some great breweries and cellar doors. Some of our favourites are:

1. Dalgety Brewery - beers, food, great views and often live music too, the team at Dalgety has really got it right. Check out their brunch if you’re looking for a real weekend treat.
2. Wild Brumby Distillery - a lovely spot but also a great gift to take home if you need one. We recommend the butterscotch schnapps for a tipple around the firepit in the evening.
3. Shut The Gate Winery (Berridale) - making the most of the cool climate in NSW, Shut The Gate has its main winery in the Clare Valley and a smaller vineyard in the Snowies. Their cellar door in Berridale is a great stop-off for a tasting or to pick up a couple of bottles to take back home.
4. Jindabyne Brewery - started by a ski instructor, with inspiration taken from the US and Europe, Jindabyne Brewery has a host of tasty beers to try.