Sydney to the Snowy Mountains

As you begin planning your trip from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales, you’ll quickly realize that there is no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful part of the world.

With its stunning alpine scenery, world-class ski resorts, and charming mountain towns, the Snowy Mountains offer something for everyone, no matter what your interests may be. And what better way to explore this stunning region than with a campervan hire from Sydney, which allows you to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road while still having all the comforts of home?

When it comes to choosing a campervan rental for your Snowy Mountains adventure, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to choose a vehicle that is suitable for the type of terrain you’ll be encountering, whether that’s steep mountain roads or snowy winter conditions. You’ll also want to consider the size of your party and how much space you’ll need for sleeping and storage. Finally, don’t forget to factor in any amenities or extras you may need, such as a kitchenette or heating system.

Once you’ve selected your campervan rental, it’s time to start planning your itinerary. Here are just a few of the many activities and attractions you won’t want to miss on your Snowy Mountains adventure:

Skiing and Snowboarding

One of the main draws of the Snowy Mountains is its world-renowned ski resorts, which offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Australia. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner hitting the slopes for the first time, you’ll find plenty of options here. Perisher and Thredbo are two of the most popular resorts, each with their own unique charm and terrain. Perisher is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, with over 1,200 hectares of skiable terrain and seven mountain peaks. Thredbo, on the other hand, is known for its long, steep runs and stunning alpine scenery.

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

If downhill skiing isn’t your thing, don’t worry – there are plenty of other winter sports to enjoy in the Snowy Mountains. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are both great options for those looking for a more low-key way to experience the snowy landscape. The Perisher Valley Nordic Centre offers a range of cross-country skiing trails, from beginner to advanced, as well as snowshoeing tours led by experienced guides. The Charlotte Pass Ski Resort is another popular spot for cross-country skiing, with over 45 kilometres of trails to explore.

Hiking and Camping

In the summertime, the Snowy Mountains transform into a hiker’s paradise, with a network of trails winding through the rugged alpine landscape. Whether you’re looking for a short day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, there’s a trail here for you. The Main Range Track is one of the most popular hikes in the area, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. If you’re looking to do some camping, there are plenty of options here as well, from remote backcountry campsites to more developed campgrounds with amenities like showers and picnic tables.

Wildlife Watching

The Snowy Mountains are home to a diverse array of wildlife, from kangaroos and wallabies to wombats and echidnas. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a rare pygmy possum or a platypus in one of the region’s many rivers and streams. The best way to see these animals up close is to take a guided wildlife tour, which will take you to some of the most prime viewing spots in the area. Make sure to bring your camera – you’ll want to capture these unforgettable moments on film.

Scenic Drives

One of the best ways to experience the Snowy Mountains is by taking a scenic drive through the alpine landscape. The Alpine Way is one of the most popular routes, offering stunning views of the Thredbo Valley and the Main Range. The Snowy Mountains Highway is another scenic drive, winding through the heart of the Snowy Mountains and offering access to a range of hiking trails and other outdoor activities.

Mountain Biking

For those who prefer to explore the outdoors on two wheels, the Snowy Mountains offer some excellent mountain biking trails. The Thredbo Valley Trail is a popular route that winds through the picturesque Thredbo Valley, offering a mix of singletrack and fire road riding. The Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa also has a network of trails that are suitable for riders of all levels, from easy, family-friendly paths to more technical singletrack.

Fishing

The Snowy Mountains are home to some of the best trout fishing in Australia, with crystal-clear streams and lakes that are teeming with fish. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to cast a line here. The Thredbo River is one of the most popular spots for fly fishing, with its clear, cold water and abundance of brown and rainbow trout. The Eucumbene River and Lake Jindabyne are also great options for fishing.

Hot Air Ballooning

For a truly unique perspective on the Snowy Mountains, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. Soaring high above the alpine landscape, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and valleys below. Balloon Aloft offers hot air balloon rides over the Snowy Mountains, with flights departing from Thredbo and the surrounding area.

Waterfalls

The Snowy Mountains are home to a number of beautiful waterfalls that are well worth a visit. One of the most popular is the Snowy Cascades, a series of cascading waterfalls that can be accessed from the Kosciuszko Road near the Guthega Power Station. Another must-see waterfall is the picturesque Paddys River Falls, located just off the Alpine Way near the village of Crackenback. For a longer hike, head to the scenic Kiandra heritage site and explore the nearby caves before taking in the stunning scenery at the Kiandra Waterfall.

Yarrangobilly Caves

The Yarrangobilly Caves are a must-visit destination in the Snowy Mountains, offering a fascinating look at the underground world of limestone caves. The caves are filled with stunning formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate soda straws. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves, exploring the various chambers and learning about the geological processes that created these natural wonders.

Clarke Gorge

Clarke Gorge is a stunning natural wonder that is not to be missed during your visit to the Snowy Mountains. Located just a short drive from Tumbarumba, this picturesque gorge is filled with crystal-clear streams, lush forests, and dramatic rock formations. The gorge is a popular destination for hiking, with a number of trails that wind through the area, including the Clarke Gorge Walking Track, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For those who want to experience the gorge from the water, there are also kayaking and canoeing opportunities along the Tumbarumba Creek.