Discover the Thrill of the Best Skiing Destinations around Melbourne
When you think of Melbourne, snowy slopes might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But just a few hours’ drive away, you’ll find Victoria’s most thrilling ski destinations waiting to surprise you.
Imagine gliding down pristine, snow-covered slopes with crisp alpine air in your face – a stark contrast to the city’s warmth.
We’ve explored these winter wonderlands to bring you the best spots for skiing, snowboarding, and unforgettable alpine escapes. From cozy lodges to exhilarating runs, these destinations offer something for everyone, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro.
Mount Donna Buang
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Location: Mount Donna Buang
Distance from Melbourne: 1.5 hour away
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Website: https://www.visitwarburton.com.au
Pricing: $
Mount Donna Buang is the closest snow destination to Melbourne, offering a quick and easy escape to winter fun.
The area features tobogganing runs and snow play areas, making it ideal for families and casual visitors. Although there are no ski lifts, the natural slopes are perfect for sledding and beginner snow activities.
Entry to Mount Donna Buang is free, making it one of the most accessible and budget-friendly snow spots near Melbourne. Parking is available at the summit, but it can fill up quickly on busy days.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially on weekends. Bring your own toboggan or rent one in Warburton on your way up the mountain.
Lake Mountain Alpine Resort
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Location: 1071 Lake Mountain Rd
Distance from Melbourne: 2 hours away
Contact: +61 3 5957 7201
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Website: https://www.lakemountainresort.com.au
Pricing: $$
Lake Mountain is the go-to destination for cross-country skiing and snow play just two hours from Melbourne.
Featuring 37 kilometers of groomed trails, the resort is perfect for families and beginners looking to try skiing or snowshoeing. Its snow play areas and toboggan slopes add extra fun for kids and adults alike.
Entry fees start at $59 per car, making it an affordable option for a quick winter getaway. Equipment rental and lessons are available, ensuring a smooth experience for first-timers.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy quieter trails. Don’t miss the Snowman’s Village for fun family activities.
Mount Baw Baw
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Location: Mount Baw Baw
Distance from Melbourne: 2.5 hours away
Contact: +61 3 5165 1136
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Website: https://www.mountbawbaw.com.au
Pricing: $$
Located just 2.5 hours away, Mount Baw Baw is the closest downhill ski resort to Melbourne.
The resort’s gentle slopes and dedicated toboggan areas make it ideal for beginners and kids. With affordable lift passes and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great option for a low-key snow adventure.
In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing and guided backcountry tours. It offers a variety of ways to experience the snowy landscape.
Pro Tip:
Visit on weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds and more time on the slopes. Be sure to try the tobogganing area for family-friendly fun.
Mount Saint Gwinear
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Location: Mount Saint Gwinear
Distance from Melbourne: 2.5 hours away
Contact: +61 3 5165 1136
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://www.visitvictoria.com
Pricing: $
Mount Saint Gwinear is a hidden gem perfect for cross-country skiing and snow play, located near Mount Baw Baw.
This peaceful destination offers groomed trails for beginners and intermediate cross-country skiers, as well as tobogganing areas for families. Its low-key atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter alpine escape.
The park’s natural beauty is its standout feature, with snowy trails winding through tall mountain ash forests. Free access and parking make it a budget-friendly option for a winter day trip.
Pro Tip:
Pack a picnic and enjoy it in the scenic snow play areas. Arrive early to secure parking and make the most of your day in this tranquil alpine setting.
Mount Stirling
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Location: Mount Stirling
Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours away
Contact: +61 3 5777 6077
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://www.mountstirling.com.au
Pricing: $$$
Mount Stirling is a haven for those seeking a serene backcountry experience and pristine alpine trails.
With cross-country skiing, snow camping, and snowshoeing, it’s perfect for adventurers who want to immerse themselves in nature. The trails wind through stunning snowgum forests, offering incredible views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Entry fees start at $48 per vehicle, and guided tours are available for beginners looking to explore the backcountry. Camping gear rentals are also offered for overnight stays.
Pro Tip:
Book a guided snowshoe tour for the best trails and insider tips on navigating Mount Stirling’s beautiful terrain. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate to enjoy at the summit shelter.
Mount Buffalo
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Location: Mount Buffalo
Distance from Melbourne: 3.5 hours away
Contact: +61 3 5755 1466
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places/mount-buffalo
Pricing: $$
Mount Buffalo is a family-friendly destination offering scenic cross-country skiing and tobogganing.
The resort is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the stunning Cathedral and Gorge areas, which provide the perfect backdrop for a snow adventure. Visitors can also explore several beginner-friendly trails or enjoy snow play with the kids.
With free entry and affordable equipment rentals, it’s a great budget-friendly alternative for those looking to enjoy a day in the snow.
Pro Tip:
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of Mount Buffalo’s scenic lookouts. Don’t miss the snow play areas for family fun and photo opportunities.
Mount Buller
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Location: Mount Buller Alpine Resort
Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours away
Contact: +61 3 5777 6077
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://www.mtbuller.com.au
Pricing: $$
Looking for the ultimate alpine adventure? Mount Buller is Melbourne’s premier skiing and snowboarding destination.
Just a three-hour drive from the city, Mount Buller offers over 300 hectares of skiable terrain, making it ideal for everyone from first-timers to advanced thrill-seekers. With 22 ski lifts, you’ll spend more time carving the slopes and less time waiting in line.
Beyond the slopes, the alpine village is a vibrant hub of activity with cozy cafés, lively après-ski venues, and boutique shopping. Whether you’re enjoying a hot chocolate by the fire or gearing up for another run, it delivers an unbeatable winter experience.
Lift passes start at $150 for adults, with discounts available for multi-day passes. Equipment rentals, lessons, and accommodation packages are also available, making it easy to plan a hassle-free trip.
Pro Tip:
Book mid-week to avoid the crowds and score discounted lift passes. If you’re traveling with friends or family, consider bundling accommodation and passes for additional savings.
And don’t forget to check out the Twilight Sessions for a magical evening skiing under the lights!
Falls Creek Alpine Resort
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Location: Falls Creek
Distance from Melbourne: 4 hours away
Contact: +61 3 5758 1200
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://www.fallscreek.com.au
Pricing: $$
Falls Creek is the ultimate family-friendly alpine resort. It offers Victoria’s largest skiable terrain and a true ski-in, ski-out village.
With 92 runs and over 450 hectares of terrain, Falls Creek caters to all skill levels. It has gentle beginner slopes and challenging black diamond runs. It’s also a haven for cross-country skiing, with 65 kilometers of groomed trails through pristine snowfields.
Off the slopes, the village is lively yet cozy. It has accommodations, restaurants, and bars. Activities like snowshoeing and tobogganing add to the charm, making it a well-rounded destination for non-skiers too.
Lift passes start at $155 for adults, with kids under five skiing free. There are also offers family packages and special discounts during off-peak periods.
Pro Tip:
Plan your visit during the annual Falls Creek Ice Plunge Festival for unique events and celebrations. For beginners, group lessons provide a fun and cost-effective way to learn the basics while meeting fellow snow enthusiasts.
Dinner Plain
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Location: Dinner Plain
Distance from Melbourne: 4 hours away
Contact: +61 3 5159 6421
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://www.visitdinnerplain.com.au
Pricing: $
Dinner Plain is an idyllic alpine village offering a relaxed snow experience for families and beginners. With gentle slopes and dedicated tobogganing areas, it’s a great place to introduce kids to the snow.
Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, sled dog tours, and gourmet dining at the village’s cozy eateries.
The atmosphere is peaceful and welcoming, making Dinner Plain perfect for those seeking a quieter alternative to larger resorts. Entry fees are affordable too, and many snow activities are free or low-cost.
Pro Tip:
Plan a sled dog tour for a unique alpine adventure, and be sure to check out the local restaurants for a warm meal after your snowy day.
Mount Feathertop
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Location: Hotham Heights
Distance from Melbourne: 4 hours away
Operating hours: Open 24/7
Pricing: $$
Mount Feathertop is Victoria’s second-highest peak and a haven for backcountry skiing enthusiasts.
Its challenging terrain and pristine snowfields attract experienced adventurers seeking a remote alpine experience. Accessible via hiking or ski touring, it’s a true wilderness destination.
The breathtaking views from the summit make the journey worthwhile, offering an unparalleled perspective of the Australian Alps. It’s ideal for those who enjoy rugged exploration and peaceful solitude.
Pro Tip:
Plan ahead and bring appropriate gear, as this is a remote destination with no facilities. Consider a guided tour for added safety and expertise.
Mount Bogong
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Location: Tawonga
Distance from Melbourne: 4.5 hours away
Operating hours: Open 24/7
Pricing: $$$
Mount Bogong, the highest peak in Victoria, is a bucket-list destination for experienced backcountry skiers and mountaineers.
This rugged and remote alpine area is known for its challenging terrain, with steep slopes and vast snowfields perfect for advanced adventurers seeking untouched powder. Accessible via hiking or ski touring, it offers a thrilling wilderness experience.
The breathtaking views from the summit showcase the expanse of the Australian Alps, making the effort to get there truly rewarding. Mount Bogong is ideal for those who crave solitude and adventure in nature.
Pro Tip:
Prepare thoroughly with proper backcountry gear and check weather conditions before visiting. Consider joining a guided tour if you’re new to backcountry skiing for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Mount Hotham
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Location: Mount Hotham
Distance from Melbourne: 4.5 hours away
Contact: +61 3 5759 3550
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://www.mthotham.com.au
Pricing: $$$
Known as the “powder capital” of Australia, Mount Hotham offers some of the most challenging terrains and breathtaking alpine views in the country.
Its unique layout places the village at the top of the mountain, providing ski-in and ski-out access to over 320 hectares of skiable terrain. With 13 lifts and runs that range from beginner-friendly to adrenaline-pumping, it’s a paradise for skiers and snowboarders.
Hotham’s backcountry experiences are second to none, offering guided tours for adventurers seeking untouched powder. After a day on the slopes, unwind at one of the luxurious lodges or enjoy hearty meals at the mountain’s renowned dining venues.
Lift passes start at $159 for adults, with discounts for multi-day and online bookings. Lessons, equipment hire, and accommodation are also available to ensure a seamless alpine experience.
Pro Tip:
For the best après-ski vibes, head to the General Store for live music, great food, and panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks.