9 exciting ways to experience the snow in Australia

Jennifer Ennion Jennifer Ennion
hero media
Show your kids how fun winter can be with these snowy activities at Australia’s best ski resorts.

Watching your child fall in love with nature has to be one of the most treasured experiences of parenthood. When it comes to snow in Australia, seeing them poke out their tongues to catch fat flakes, put eyes on their first snowman or laugh hysterically during a snowball fight is nothing short of magical.

Whether you’re new to snow or searching for new activities, there are plenty of special moments to be made at Australia’s favourite ski resorts.

1. Winter festivals

When it comes to winter festivals that cater to the whole family, Thredbo has a mug full of activities. The resort’s July Kids Snow Festival includes plenty of on- and off-snow fun, with movie nights, giant games and Thredboland animal parades.

a family skiing at Thredboland
Learn to ski at Thredboland. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

At Falls Creek, Victoria’s largest alpine resort, families will have a hoot during Twilight Tuesdays , when the village is abuzz with music, games and marshmallow roasting. Tiny tots will also love meeting resort mascot Pete the Snowdragon.

Kids gathering around Pete The Snowdragon mascot during Twilight Tuesdays
Pete The Snowdragon does meet and greet with the kids during Twilight Tuesdays.

2. Kids’ skiing and snowboarding

Whether your kids have never been on snow before or they’re clocking up their seventh season, one of the most exciting things about the snow is simply hitting the slopes.

If they’re new to winter sports or need to finesse their turns, ski and snowboard lessons are the way to go, and all resorts offer either private or group (or both) sessions.

Kids skiing down the slopes at Thredbo
Ski and snowboard lessons are easy to find at all resorts. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

When it comes to riding as a family, one of the best experiences is night skiing , as the trails and resorts are that little more magical under the stars. Some of the best night skiing can be found at Australia’s largest resort, Perisher in NSW.

sunrise views at Perisher Valley and Blue Cow
Admire panoramic views across Perisher Valley. (Image: Perisher Resort)

Front Valley is lit up for skiing from 6pm on Tuesdays and Saturdays (tickets required), while you can also head to the family-friendly area of Smiggin Holes for free skiing off the magic carpet on Wednesdays.

During the day, one of the best family mountain trails can be found at Falls Creek. Wombat’s Ramble is Australia’s longest beginner run and is also where night skiing is held.

ski lifts at Falls Creek
Wombat’s Ramble is Australia’s longest beginner run.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

3. Kids’ ski camps

If your kids are ready to up their skills on the slopes, Thredbo’s new Project Shred program is ideal. In partnership with the Chumpy Pullin Foundation , the day sessions are all about supporting the next generation of Aussie shredders.

a person skiing at Thredbo Parks
Thredbo’s new Project Shred program in partnership with the Chumpy Pullin Foundation is all about supporting the next generation. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

Kids under 17 will learn new tricks and how to land old ones better at Cruiser Terrain Park, before joining a workshop with athletes. They then get to enjoy a sausage sizzle and live music with new mates, and there are giveaways up for grabs too.

kids enjoying at Cruiser Terrain Park
Kids will join a workshop with athletes at Cruiser Terrain Park. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

4. Sled dog tours

Another great way to get the adrenaline pumping is on an exciting sled dog tour under snow gums. Be pulled by an energetic team of Siberian huskies with Australian Sled Dog Tours in Mt Buller, Victoria. Along with a ride, you’ll get to have a meet-and-greet and time for husky selfies. There are discounted rates for families; the minimum age is five.

energetic huskies pulling a sled, Australian Sled Dog Tours
Meet adorable huskies at Australian Sled Dog Tours.

Also in Victoria, join Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours in Mt Hotham and Dinner Plain. There are a few tours to choose from, including one specifically for families where you’ll learn all about the dogs and enjoy plenty of cuddles.

Huskies pulling sled at Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours in Mount Hotham
Enjoy plenty of cuddles at Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours.

5. Tobogganing

One of the best places to go for tobogganing and other snow play is Selwyn Snow Resort in NSW, which is reopening after being destroyed by bushfires in 2020. Completely rebuilt, the resort now claims to have the biggest toboggan park in Australia, with a 150-metre snow carpet, and you can buy day or family passes.

kids sliding down the snow at Toboggan Parks, Mt Buller
Kids can enjoy tobogganing down the icy slopes.

Mt Buller also has two dedicated toboggan parks , which make snow play fun and safe. Buy a full-day pass, which includes a toboggan that you can leave at the parks, coming and going as often as you like without having to carry it around. The littlest snow bunnies (under one metre tall) get to slide free with a paying adult, while tobogganing is free with a valid lift pass.

a woman sliding down the snow at Toboggan Parks
Slide down snow-covered slopes on a toboggan at Mt Buller.

6. Kids’ snowmobiling

With Australia’s ski resorts in national parks, snowmobiling isn’t widespread here, but at Mt Hotham, you’ll find Kids’ Snowmobile Rides , where they get to zip around on mini machines. You’ll find them at Hotham Snowstuff Park; rides are for kids aged five to 13 years.

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

7. Chocolates and marshmallows

During the school holidays at Thredbo, little ones can get their sugar fix at free Lindt Chocolate S’mores making at Friday Flat Fire Pits, while resort institution Candlelight Lodge does a seriously delicious chocolate fondue.

kids making Lindt Chocolate S'mores at Friday Flat Fire Pits
Enjoy Lindt Chocolate S’mores making at Friday Flat Fire Pits. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

At neighbouring Perisher, hop off the Perisher Quad Express Chair at Mid Station and grab an overloaded hot chocolate, complete with marshmallow snowman, from Mid Perisher Centre.

In Mt Buller, families can find a chocolate fondue at The Villager, and after indulging you can take the kids on an adventure through the pedestrian-only village on the popular Gnome Roam . There are several frosty gnomes to meet along the way; download the free Mt Buller Walks app (with audio tour) to find them or pick up a gnome booklet at Alpine Central or the Clock Tower.

two little girls playing with a gnome
Enter the mystical Gnome Roam in Mt Buller.

8. Kids’-only flare runs

If your kids have been to Thredbo on a weekend in winter, it’s likely they’ve watched skiers and boarders light up the mountain as they snake down the snow while holding flares.

kids flare run in Thredbo
Be part of the iconic Thredbo flare run. (Image: Thredbo Resort)

Well, now they can take part too, with the resort hosting special school holiday LED runs , no adults allowed. Held on Thursday nights, children are welcome to ski or board down gentle Friday Flat while holding a twinkling LED flare.

Don’t worry parents, snow sports instructors will be taking your precious ones up the Easy Does It chairlift, while you can take videos from below. It’s open for kids aged three to 14 years and is free with a valid day lift pass.

Fireworks and flare path at Kids Flare Run in Thredbo
On the Kids Flare Run, children are welcome to ski or board down with an LED flare.

9. Stay in a “glamtainer"

Ski resort accommodation doesn’t have to be expensive, as long as you get creative with where you stay, and one of the most impressive accommodation choices for families this season is at NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park.

Located on Lake Jindabyne and opposite the town’s shops and restaurants, this park offers more than your typical campsites and cabins. Cool “glamtainers" (converted shipping containers) can now be booked and are a novel option for families of four.

The “glamping" accommodation includes a queen bed and bunks, a kitchenette, a living area, a bathroom, outdoor dining, contemporary furnishings and heating to keep everyone toasty.

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly accommodation and ski trip tips, we’ve got you covered.
Jennifer Ennion
Jennifer Ennion is a freelance travel and ski journalist who loves encouraging people to spend more time outdoors. From snorkelling with belugas in sub-Arctic Canada to hiking the Himalayas, Jennifer is constantly searching for stories that inspire readers to push their boundaries.
View profile and articles
This app can predict flight delays up to 25 hours in advance
Australia

This app can predict flight delays up to 25 hours in advance

Using live data and smart technology, this flight-tracking tool is keeping travellers one step ahead.

Read more
A pink-hued full moon in the sky
Australia

Why you shouldn’t bother looking for a pink moon tonight

Despite the name, the moon won’t, in fact, be pink.

Read more
aircrafts on field of Alice Springs airport in the Northern Territory
Australia

Australia’s most delayed flight routes revealed

A new report has ranked Australia's worst-performing domestic and international flight routes.

Read more
Krinklewood Winery, Hunter Valley
Australia

Affordable Easter getaways in every state to beat soaring fuel costs

Skip the fuel sting with these affordable Easter getaways and staycations across Australia.

Read more
hero media

The perfect mid-week reset an hour from Melbourne

    Kellie Floyd Kellie Floyd
    Continue
    Winding down in the Yarra Valley, where ‘work from home’ becomes ‘work from wine country’.

    Steam from my morning coffee curls gently into the cool valley air, mist-veiled vineyards stretch out in neat rows below me. Magpies warble from trees, and the morning’s quiet carries the soft bleating of lambs from a nearby paddock. Midweek in the Yarra Valley has its own rhythm. It’s slower, quieter, with more empty tables at cafes and cellar doors, and walking trails I can claim all to myself. It’s as if the entire region takes a deep breath once the weekend crowd leaves.

    walking trails in the Yarra Valley
    You’ll find walking trails are less crowded during the week. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    I haven’t come here for a holiday, but to do a little work somewhere other than my home office, where I spend too much time hunched over my desk. Deadlines still loom, meetings still happen, but with flexible work evolving from ‘work from home’ to ‘work from anywhere’, I’m swapping the view of my front yard to the vineyards.

    A quiet afternoon at Yarra Valley Dairy

    holding a glass of wine at Yarra Valley Dairy
    Wine time at Yarra Valley Dairy, where you can enjoy a toastie or bagel in the cafe. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    With the Yarra Valley just over an hour from the CBD, many Melburnians could drive here in their lunch break. I arrive late in the afternoon and am delighted to discover the Yarra Valley Dairy still open. On weekends, I’ve seen queues spilling out the door, but today there’s only one other couple inside. There’s no need to rush to secure a table; instead I browse the little store, shelves stacked with chutneys, spices, artisan biscuits and gorgeous crockery that would look right at home in my kitchen. It’s hard not to buy the lot.

    a cheese tasting plate atYarra Valley Dairy
    A cheese tasting plate at Yarra Valley Dairy.

    I order a coffee and a small cheese platter, though the dairy has a full menu, and choose a wooden table with bentwood chairs by a wide window. The space feels part farm shed, part cosy café: corrugated iron ceiling, walls painted in muted tones and rustic furniture.

    Outside, cows meander toward milking sheds. If pressed for time, there’s the option of quick cheese tastings – four samples for five dollars in five minutes – but today, I’m in no rush. I sip slowly, watching a grey sky settle over the paddock. Less than an hour ago I was hunched over my home-office desk, and now my racing mind has slowed to match the valley’s pace.

    Checking in for vineyard views at Balgownie Estate

    Restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate
    Restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate has views across the vines.

    As my car rolls to a stop at Balgownie Estate , I’m quietly excited, and curious to see if my plan to work and play comes off. I’ve chosen a suite with a spacious living area and a separate bedroom so I can keep work away from a good night’s sleep. I could have booked a cosy cottage, complete with open fireplace, a comfy couch and a kettle for endless cups of tea, but as I am still here to get some work done, I opt for a place that takes care of everything. Dinner is served in Restaurant 1309, as is breakfast.

    oysters at Restaurant 1309, Balgownie Estate
    Oysters pair perfectly with a crisp white at Restaurant 1309.

    On my first evening, instead of the usual walk about my neighbourhood, I stroll through the estate at an unhurried pace. There’s no need to rush – someone else is preparing my dinner after all. The walking trails offer beautiful sunsets, and it seems mobs of kangaroos enjoy the view, too. Many appear, grazing lazily on the hillside.

    I wake to the call of birds and, after breakfast, with the mist still lingering over the vineyards, I watch two hot-air balloons silently drift above clouds. Perched on a hill, Balgownie Estate sits above the mist, leaving the valley below veiled white.

    kangaroos in Yarra Valley
    Spotting the locals on an evening walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Exploring the Yarra Valley on two wheels

    the Yarra Valley vineyards
    Swap your home office for a view of the vineyards. (Image: Visit Victoria/Cormac Hanrahan)

    Perhaps because the Yarra Valley is relatively close to where I live, I’ve never considered exploring the area any way other than by car or on foot. And with a fear of heights, a hot-air balloon is firmly off the table. But when I discover I can hop on two wheels from the estate and cycle into Yarra Glen, I quickly realise it’s the perfect way to step away from my laptop and experience a different side of the region.

    COG Bike offers pedal-assist e-bikes, and while the bike trail and paths into town aren’t particularly hilly, having an extra bit of ‘oomph’ means I can soak up the surroundings. Those lambs I heard calling early in the morning? I now find them at the paddock fence, sniffing my hands, perhaps hoping for food. Cows idle nearby, and at a fork in the bike path I turn left toward town.

    It’s still morning, and the perfect time for a coffee break at The Vallie Store. If it were the afternoon, I’d likely turn right, in the direction of four wineries with cellar doors. The ride is about 15 kilometres return, but don’t let that put you off. Staying off the highway, the route takes you along quiet backroads where you catch glimpses of local life – farmers on tractors, weathered sheds, rows of vines and the kind of peaceful countryside you don’t see from the main road.

    A detour to the Dandenong Ranges

    legs hanging over the sides of the train, Puffing Billy Railway
    The iconic Puffing Billy runs every day except Christmas Day.

    The beauty of basing myself in the Yarra Valley is how close everything feels. In barely half an hour I’m in the Dandenong Ranges, swapping vineyards for towering mountain ash and fern-filled gullies. The small villages of Olinda and Sassafras burst with cosy teahouses, antique stores and boutiques selling clothing and handmade body care items.

    I’m drawn to RJ Hamer Arboretum – Latin for ‘a place for trees’. Having grown up among tall trees, I’ve always taken comfort in their presence, so this visit feels like a return of sorts. A stroll along the trails offers a choice: wide open views across patchwork paddocks below, or shaded paths that lead you deeper into the quiet hush of the peaceful forest.

    The following day, I settle into a quiet corner on the balcony of Paradise Valley Hotel in Clematis and soon hear Puffing Billy’s whistle and steady chuff as the steam train climbs towards town. Puffing Billy is one of Australia’s most beloved steam trains, running through the Dandenong Ranges on a narrow-gauge track. It’s famous for its open carriages where passengers can sit with their legs hanging over the sides as the train chugs through the forest. This is the perfect spot to wave to those on the train.

    After my midweek break, I find my inbox still full and my to-do list not in the least shrunken, just shifted from one task to another. But I return to my home office feeling lighter, clearer and with a smug satisfaction I’d stolen back a little time for myself. A midweek wind-down made all the difference.

    A traveller’s checklist

    Staying there

    Balgownie Estate offers everything from cellar door tastings to spa treatments and fine dining – all without leaving the property.

    Playing there

    the TarraWarra Museum of Art, Yarra Valley
    Visit the TarraWarra Museum of Art. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Wander through Alowyn Gardens, including a stunning wisteria tunnel, then explore the collection of contemporary artworks at TarraWarra Museum of Art . Cycle the Yarra Valley with COG Bike to visit local wineries and cellar doors.

    Eating and drinking there

    Olinda Tea House offers an Asian-inspired high tea. Paradise Valley Hotel, Clematis has classic pub fare, while the iconic Yering Station offers wine tastings and a restaurant with seasonal dishes.

    seasonal dishes at the restaurant inside Yering Station
    The restaurant at Yering Station showcases the best produce of the Yarra Valley. (Image: Visit Victoria)