9 exciting ways to experience the snow in Australia

Jennifer Ennion Jennifer Ennion
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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.
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Can’t handle the cold? Hamilton Island serves a slice of summer in winter

(Image: Hamilton Island)

    Eleanor Edström Eleanor Edström
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    When the winter chill settles in, an escape to Hamilton Island’s year-round tropical shores is the only acceptable coping mechanism.

    As a heliophile with the cold tolerance of a Mediterranean house cat, the arrival of winter tends to spark a particular panic. How will I survive? Must I really start layering? What do you mean, Aperol season is over? But there are far better ways to spend the cooler months than sulking in the depths of your doona.

    Enter, Hamilton Island. With its year-round sunshine and permanent on-holiday atmosphere, this Whitsundays favourite promises a veritable slice of summer in winter.

    Think salt-stiff hair and the smug pleasure of devouring seafood beside the water while friends back home are defogging their windscreens. Here’s why Hamilton Island should figure into your winter plans.

    1. Year-round summer weather

    A woman hiking along the Passage Peak trail on Hamilton Island.
    Hike under sunny winter skies on Hamilton Island. (Image: Andrew Caitens)

    In the crisper months, Hamilton Island offers perfectly mild, sunny weather (17-24°C) that lends itself to morning swims and afternoon spritzes. Better still, you can enjoy the island’s outdoor adventures – from hiking to mountain biking – without the humidity or rain you’ll often find in summertime. With direct flights from most major Australian cities offering ease of access, Hamilton Island is the ideal place to flee the cold.

    2. Getting active without the humidity

    A buggy parked overlooking Hamilton Island’s golf course, with sweeping views of the sea at Whitsundays in winter.
    Zip around Hamilton Island by buggy. (Image: Hamilton Island)

    Whether you’re hiking up to Passage Peak or exploring the island by buggy, tropical Queensland humidity is nobody’s friend. The one way to guarantee you will avoid the inevitable stickiness and fluffy hair? Visit during winter. There’s plenty to be enjoyed, from sunrise yoga at The Sundays (exclusive to guests of The Sundays) to playing golf on Dent Island.

    3. Hamilton Island Race Week

    Yachts racing across the sparkling Whitsundays during Hamilton Island Race Week.
    Feel the thrill of Hamilton Island Race Week. (Image: Salty Dingo)

    Taking place in August, Hamilton Island Race Week is a destination in its own right that attracts spectators and racers from around the globe. Boating enthusiasts and thrill-seeking holidaymakers flock to the island, which is palpably energetic as the first yachts set off for Dent Passage from Hamilton Island Yacht Club. The annual action-packed week, taking place from 15 to 22 August in 2026, offers an exciting calendar of on- and off-water events – spanning everything from celebrity chef dinners to golfing comps and wine tastings.

    4. Best time for snorkelling

    A woman snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
    Explore Hamilton Island’s winter waters. (Image: Andrew Caitens)

    While the crowds on Hamilton Island may disperse with the cooler weather, the marine life certainly doesn’t. Winter is widely considered one of the best times to snorkel and dive in the Whitsundays.

    It’s down to a number of reasons: excellent water visibility, higher chances of seeing whales as they migrate north and – best of all – no nasty stingers. This means no need to wear those notoriously unflattering full-body wetsuits visitors have to wear in warmer months. On top of all this, you’ll find calm seas ideal for sailing and Great Barrier Reef tours.

    5. Fewer crowds

    People kayaking.
    Experience a quieter Hamilton Island on a kayaking adventure. (Image: Hamilton Island)

    Winter is often the quietest time to visit Hamilton Island, with the peak season crowds thinned to a relaxed trickle. You can snorkel or dive straight off the reef-laced waters of Catseye Beach, then swap fins for a buggy and zip between One Tree Hill, the marina and sunset cocktails without the usual summer queues. Active days stretch from kayaking, sailing and jet skiing to hopping over to famous Whitehaven Beach to witness those breathtaking white swirls of silica sand. You won’t have to elbow your way to the front of the crowd to get a good snap.

    6. Delicious dining

    The interiors of Bommie Restaurant, featuring modern coastal design with warm lighting and elegant detailing.
    Treat yourself to Bommie Restaurant’s fine dining featuring fresh, seasonal Aussie produce. (Image: Nikki To)

    The food on Hamilton Island tastes just as good any time of year, and winter is still perfect weather for sundowners. Start with an iced tea Negroni at harbourside Bommie Deck, before transitioning to Bommie Restaurant for a fine-dining feast centering on seasonal Aussie ingredients. Or perhaps enjoy a more casual poolside evening at Sails Restaurant, where plates of chermoula chicken skewers, baked cauliflower steak and crispy sumac squid come served with ocean views. From family-friendly pub meals to elevated wine tastings, there’s something for everyone.

    5. Clear skies for idyllic views

    The golden hour across the Whitsundays in winter.
    End your day with golden Hamilton Island sunsets over the water. (Image: Hamilton Island)

    Never let a cloud rain on the parade of Hamilton Island’s spectacular scenery. Winter brings clearer skies and more stable weather to the Whitsundays, meaning your picture-perfect sunset at One Tree Hill is likely to remain that way. And after putting in the legwork to hike to a scenic lookout, the last thing you want is a vista hidden behind low cloud and haze.

    To learn more about travelling to the Whitsundays in winter, visit hamitlonisland.com.au.

    9 Best Ways To Experience Snow In Australia - Australian Traveller