How To Get There

HOW TO GET THERE

Most Australians drive to the snow, but there are other options available for some of the resorts, such as coach, rail and bus. Just keep in mind the amount of luggage you’ll be taking with you, as you may need to pay extra.
Alternatively, you can fly most of the way to the snow and rent a car from the airport or take a connecting resort bus.
Mt Hotham Resort in Victoria has it’s own airport and if you’re heading to Falls Creek, flying into Albury is a good option.
In NSW, there are regular winter services to the Snowy Mountains Airport at Cooma, which is close to Perisher, Thredbo and Mt Selwyn. Or if you’re coming from Melbourne or Sydney, you can also fly into Canberra, which is only a two-and-a-half hour drive from the NSW snowfields.
Don’t forget that most resorts are in National Parks, so you’ll need to allow for the cost of entry into the park. The price varies between resorts, but is approximately $30. Check on your chosen resort’s website for exact costs.

If you’re in a snow-covered area, it’s illegal to drive any two-wheel drive vehicles without snow chains. You can rent chains from garages or snow-hire stores near the snow.
Keep your fuel topped up at the last major town or village, as there’s often no fuel at the resorts themselves or heading up the mountain.
Check the road conditions and weather before you leave. It’s also a good idea to check for road closures.
Engage low gear as you drive up the mountain and never apply the brakes too heavily or suddenly.
If you hit ice, don't panic or apply the brakes too suddenly. Just slowly and carefully regain traction as you gently ease on the brakes.
At night, only use low-beam lights. High beams are ineffective in high-mist areas. If you can't see, pull over, put on your hazard lights and keep your engine running until the mist has cleared.
Anti-freeze is recommended to be added to your radiator once you reach the high country. Just make sure you match the amount of anti-freeze to the capacity of the coolant system.
A good idea is to leave the car in park or in gear and don’t apply the hand brake as it could freeze on.