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14/08/2025 |
Life in Canberra
First time seeing snow?
For many international students coming to Australia for the first time, you may be surprised to learn the country isn't just famous for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather and breathtaking coastlines. In fact, it actually snows here and is home to the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere! Plus, Canberra is the closest major city to Australia’s best ski fields, which means it’s easy to plan day trips or weekend getaways to the snow without the long travel times.
In this guide, we talk you through what you need to know before your first trip to the snow, the best places to ski, what to pack and other snow and winter activities you can enjoy during the cooler months in Canberra.
Where to go in Australia to experience snow
The largest and most popular place to see and experience snow in Australia is in the Snowy Mountains. This mountain range located in New South Wales is open all-year round. However, during the winter months of June, July and August (and sometimes extending into spring), the area is transformed into a snowy wonderland of ski fields, thermal pools, music festivals, wine tastings and adventure sports.
There are a number of different ski resorts you can choose within the Snowy Mountains. Each offers different attractions suited for every type of traveller. This includes:
- Thredbo - A popular destination featuring Friday Flat, a beginner-friendly area for first-timers enjoying snow sports, as well as bars, restaurants and entertainment.
- Perisher - The largest ski resort in Australia with plenty of space for skiing and snowboarding.
- Charlotte Pass - A secluded alpine village that offers ski and snowboarding lessons. It’s also home to the iconic Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel.
- Selwyn Snow Resort - This is the perfect spot for tobogganing. It’s a popular destination for families and beginners as it features a number of different slopes of varied terrain.
How to prepare for your first time seeing snow
Before you head to the slopes, have a think about what you want to see and do on your snow trip. Are you interested in trying skiing for the first time? Do you want to try your hand at tobogganing? Or are you interested in enjoying a relaxing weekend surrounded by snow? This will help to determine which ski resort is right for you.
Once you’ve decided on a destination, don’t forget to consider things like:
- How long you want to spend in the snow
- How you will be getting around
- The type of accommodation you would like to stay in
- Any meals you will have to eat out or cook at your accommodation
There are a number of different ways you can get to the Snowy Mountains. From Canberra it is a 2.5 hour drive. You have the option to travel by car, by or on a coach bus. There are a number of different coach companies, such as , with varying prices, so scan the web for the best deal.
What to pack on a ski trip
When packing for your first ski trip, you’ll want to keep warm. During winter, the maximum temperatures in the Snowy Mountain region reach between -2 and 6°C. It’s even said the nights can get as cold as -5°C!
Pack warm layers including insulated thermals, a large waterproof outerwear jacket, snow boots and accessories such as a beanie, scarf, socks and gloves. Keep your eye out for sales at stores such as Kathmandu, Macpac or Columbia who sell quality garments that will last you season after season. For a more affordable option, don’t forget to check out the Special Buys at ALDI supermarkets, who may sell cheaper snow gear in the lead up to winter.
It’s important to remember sunscreen, too. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is more intense in high altitude regions and the snow reflects these rays, so applying and reapplying sunscreen when you’re outdoors should be a priority.
Other winter activities you can enjoy in Canberra and the surrounds
Can’t make it out to the Snowy Mountains this year? There are still plenty of incredible activities you can do in and around Canberra during the cooler months.
Corin Forest
Located just a 45-minute drive from Canberra, transforms into a snow resort in the winter months. The gentle slopes make it perfect for beginner skiers and snowboarders, plus there are plenty of cozy spots to soak up the scenery with a hot chocolate in hand.
Mt Stromlo Observatory
As part of the ANU Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, the observatory offers to the public. The guided stargazing tour with talks from astronomers allows you to view the striking winter night sky for a gold coin donation.
Warm up at a gallery
If you’d prefer an indoor activity, there are a number of incredible exhibitions during the winter months. Be inspired by the work of Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse at the National Gallery of Australia's . There’s also , which is returning to Canberra for its final showing. Or, head to the National Museum of Australia and check out , which explores the little-known history of Aboriginal and Chinese relations in colonial Australia.
