Comparison of Victoria's Snow Resorts

The official snow season in Victoria is from the Queen's Birthday weekend through to the first Sunday in October.

Victoria has five major alpine resorts you can choose from, Mt Buller, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, Mt Baw Baw and Lake Mountain. How do you decide which one to visit? We've put together a comprehensive summary of each Victorian alpine resort to help make the decision easier and estimate the cost of the trip, including routes and distance from Melbourne, public transport options, snow chain requirements, resort entry prices, parking options, oversnow transport options, chair lift prices, activities on the mountain, accommodation options and food and drink options. Links to snow condition, lift and run reports are provided for each resort. Information applies for the 2023 snow season.

Mt Buller has 22 lifts for downhill skiing and snowboarding, 9km of cross-country trails plus access to Mt Stirling, three terrain parks, a dedicated toboggan park, twilight skiing/snowboarding, scenic chairlift and Australian sled dog tours. Mt Buller, three hours drive from Melbourne, is the most popular resort since it is the most accessible for day trips. It caters for visitors of all abilities, with areas for beginners and plenty of black runs for expert skiers. Mt Buller has a single quaint alpine village at the base of the slopes where all the facilities such as accommodation, shops restaurants and bars are located within walking distance of each other.

Mt Hotham has 13 lifts for downhill skiing and snowboarding, 35km of cross-country trails plus access to Dinner Plain, two terrain parks, a dedicated toboggan park and twilight skiing/snowboarding. The resort caters to all abilities, but is best suited to intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders. Located 4.5 hours from Melbourne, Mt Hotham is mostly suited to multi-day trips. Hotham is quite spread out with facilities along the side of the road running across the resort.

Falls Creek has 14 lifts for downhill skiing and snowboarding, 65km of groomed cross-country trails, four terrain parks, a dedicated toboggan park, twilight skiing/snowboarding, scenic chairlift, snowmobile tours and snow tubing. This resort has something for everyone. Located 4.5 hours from Melbourne, Falls Creek is mostly suited to multi-day trips.

Mt Baw Baw has 7 lifts for downhill skiing and snowboarding, 10km of cross-country trails plus access to Baw Baw National Park, a terrain park, a dedicated toboggan park and dingo snow walk. Located 3 hours from Melbourne, Mt Baw Baw is close enough for a day trip. It is suited to beginner and intermediate level skiers and snowboarders and family snow play.

Lake Mountain does not cater for downhill skiing and there are no lifts. There are some gentle slopes which are suitable for beginners to snowboarding, 37km of cross-country trails, four toboggan runs and tube run. Lake Mountain, 2.5 hours from Melbourne, is the closest resort to Melbourne. It is most suited to families and day-trippers who are looking to experience snow.

After periods of extreme winter weather, there can be snow at Mount Donna Buang near Warburton which is only 70 kilometres from Melbourne CBD. It is not mandatory to carry chains when driving to the summit. At the summit you will find picnic facilities, BBQs, some shelter, an observation tower, public toilets, toboggan hire, food van and several toboggan runs. Entrance is free.

Check out our extensive list of helpful tips for visiting snow resorts to make your experience even more enjoyable.

MT BULLER

Location: North East of Melbourne
Distance from Melbourne: 236km (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)
Nearest Town: The closest town of reasonable size is Mansfield, 44km away.
Resort Contact Details: Phone: 1800 285 537, E-mail: info@skibuller.com.au Facebook: Mt Buller, Instagram: Mt Buller | Australia
Resort Map: A map showing the village layout and trails is here.
Snow Conditions: See the current Lift & Run Report and XC report for Mt Buller.
Activities on Mountain:

Downhill skiing / Snowboarding - There are 22 lifts and 80+ runs. 20% is beginner terrain, 45% is intermediate and 35% is advanced.

Tobogganing - Toboggans are no longer permitted into Mt Buller Village and cannot be carried on any resort transport. Pre-purchase your toboggan pass for $15 (children under 1m tall slide free with a paying adult). Your pass includes a toboggan and access to two dedicated toboggan parks. Toboggans are provided for your use inside the toboggan parks only. Book your toboggan park ticket here. Mt Buller's two designated, capacity managed toboggan areas have their own snowmaking for a generous cover of snow for sliding. One is located in the day car park and the other is up in the alpine Village. The Village toboggan park offers three graded runs from beginner to advanced and a seating area.

Cross-country skiing - There are 9km of cross-country trails that circle around the back of the Village. The trails are easy to access and offer spectacular views of Mt Stirling and the Bluff. You can also visit Mt Buller's alpine partner Mt Stirling to explore 68km of groomed, sheltered cross-country trails. Cross-country skis are available for hire from on-mountain outlets including Buller Sports and George's Ski Hire.

Terrain Parks - There are three terrain parks of different levels. Skyline Park is an everyday park with nothing too intimidating, Koflers Park is an introduction park to freestyle and Summit Park is the highest level park set up as a slopestyle course where you will find the biggest jumps and rails.

Twilight Ski and Snowboard - From Wed 29 June - Sat 27 August you can ski, board or take a lesson on Bourke St ski run all under lights until 8.30pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Price is $31 per person.

General snow play fun - There are two snowplay parks

Scenic Chairlift - If you are not a skier or boarder explore the mountain by taking a ride on the Northside Express chairlift and enjoy a breathtaking view across Mt Buller's slopes. Prices for a return ride are $39 for adult, $32 for child (5-18 yrs), free for over 70's and under 5 years.

Snowgaining - This is high altitude orienteering which is a great way to explore the alpine area and have some fun on the way. Nine checkpoints have been placed around the mountain. Your challenge is to visit these locations, in whatever order you like, and return with a completed checkpoint control card. Everyone who completes a full card receives a Mt Buller branded multi tool.

Telemark skiing - Mt Buller Ski & Snowboard School offers lessons in this discipline of free-heel skiing. Mt Stirling (Mt Buller's neighbouring mountain and included in the same resort entry fee) also offers excellent telemark skiing, as well as lessons.

Australian Sled Dog Tours - Join the friendly team of Siberian Huskies for a once in a lifetime adventure you'll never forget. Tours will be operating throughout the whole season, subject to snow and weather conditions. Tours include a meet and greet with the Huskies, a photo session and sled dog tour. $300 per person, discounted rate of $950 for families of 4 (max of 4 people). For those who just want to meet the Huskies without going on a tour, you can meet the Huskies one by one, ask questions and take photos ($25 per person for a 45 minute session).

Buller Air Zone has trampolines, an airbag challenge and climbing and operates 3-7pm (6pm last session). Users must be 140cm tall and must be accompanied by an adult at all times if under 11 years of age. Prices are $20pp for a one hours session and $3 for grip socks.

Mt Buller Cinema is the highest movie cinema in Australia and usually screens two movies a night.

National Alpine Museum hosts to an extensive collection of artefacts from all over Alpine Australia. Entry is free.
Route by Car: There are a few different routes you can take from Melbourne. They are:

Plenty Road via Whittlesea and Yea

Via the Hume Highway to Tallarook and Yea

Via the Maroondah Highway to Yarra Glen and Yea
To get here via the most direct route using Google Maps and GPS, it is best to set your destination to Yea, then once you are in Yea set it for Mansfield, then Mt Buller from Mansfield.
Public Transport: A number of coach services operate between Mt Buller and Melbourne during the snow season by Alzburg Tours and BullerBus. Day tour fares are around $129 for adults and $119 for a child.

Mansfield - Mt Buller Bus Lines has daily scheduled bus services between Mansfield, Merrijig, Mirimbah and Mt Buller. Return fares between Mansfield and Mt Buller are $95 for adults and $65 for a child including resort entry.
Entry Prices: The resort day entry ticket is $63 per vehicle (9 seats or less) or $53.50 when pre-purchased online up to midnight the night before you arrive. Overnight entry & parking is from $126 ($107 if pre-purchased online).

Snowplay Express operates over July and August weekends for day visitors. A bus takes you from Mirimbah to the Mt Buller Village for the same price as the resort day entry ticket. This has the advantage that you don't need to drive the mountain road and therefore don't need chains but you do need to book your departure and return times.
Snow Chains: Wheel chain requirements vary daily for day entry and are determined by the weather forecast and existing road conditions. Requirements may vary between 2WD and 4WD/AWD vehicles. The Wheel Chain Declaration is updated daily at 5pm for the next day.
You need to have hired wheel chains before you arrive at the Mirimbah entry gates (at the bottom of the mountain). There are hire outlets located along the way at Mansfield and Merrijig. All overnight visitors are required by law to carry wheel chains.
Parking: The day and overnight car parks are located approximately 1.5-3 km below the Mt Buller Village.
Day Visitors: Once you have parked your car in the day car park, you can jump on a free shuttle bus that will take you up into the Village centre. Shuttle buses operate from 8am-6pm daily. You can either head straight on to the slopes via the Northside Express chairlift.
Overnight Visitors: Once you have parked your car in an overnight car park, you can catch a Rideshare Transfer Service to your accommodation in the Mt Buller Village. Rideshare operate 7am-midnight Sunday to Thursday, 7am-3am Friday and 7am-2am Saturday. Note: The overnight carparks are not serviced by the free shuttle bus.
Transfers from Carpark: There is a free shuttle bus from the day visitors carpark. The Rideshare Transfer Service to the Village and accommodation from the overnight visitors carpark is $33.60 per adult and $16.80 per child return when booked online. Download the "Mt Buller Transportation" app to book your journey from accommodation to your vehicle at the end of your visit at least 24 hours before departure. Some private transfer companies offer transfers. See here for details.
Chair Lifts: There is dynamic pricing so the price of lift passes increases depending on demand. You'll find the cheapest lift passes mid-week, in the shoulder season in June and September and the earlier you book the better the value. Mt Buller uses a B-Tag swipe card system for lift passes, lessons and more. It is a non-refundable $5 per B-Tag. Purchase your B-TAG online, from any ticket window on the mountain or any Buller Sports or Altitude outlet at Mt Buller, or from Buller Sports Mansfield. Indicative online full day lift pass prices for a July weekend are $198 for adults (19-64), $119 for kids (5-18), $103 for kids (5-18), $119 for over 65s (65-69) and free for under 5 and over 70s.
Accommodation: On the mountain, there is a range of hostels, lodges, luxury hotels and private chalets. Off the mountain, you can stay in Mansfield, Merrijig or Mirimbah and then drive up daily.
Food on the Mountain: There is a good range of food and drink on the mountain but it is expensive. There is a small Foodworks in the Village.
Gear and Clothing Hire: There are six hire places on the mountain and a variety of places in Mansfield.
Fuel on the Mountain: There is no fuel available at Mt Buller so fill up in Mansfield before driving the last leg to the resort. If driving a diesel vehicle you should use alpine mix diesel or buy a winter additive which is available from most service stations in Mansfield.

FALLS CREEK

Location: North East of Melbourne
Distance from Melbourne: 286km (4.5 hours from Melbourne CBD)
Nearest Town: The closest town of reasonable size is Mount Beauty, 32km away. Bright is 65km away.
Resort Contact Details: Phone: (03) 5758 1000, E-mail: marketing@fallscreek.net Facebook: Falls Creek, Instagram: Falls Creek Official
Resort Map: A map showing the village layout and trails is here. The XC skiing map is here.
Snow Conditions: See the current Snow, Lift & Run Report for Falls Creek.
Activities on Mountain:

Downhill skiing / Snowboarding - There is 450ha of terrain with 14 lifts and 90 runs. Lessons are available for skiing and snowboarding for a range of ages and experience levels.

Tobogganing - There is a large tobogganing slope at Windy Corner with day car parking located nearby. The slopes are free to access, all you need is to bring your own approved toboggan or rent one ($15 per day) from a variety of places around the resort.

Cross-country skiing - With a landscape and terrain that rivals the best, there is over 65km of groomed trails. The free network of cross country trails at Falls Creek starts up at the Nordic Bowl, stretching out to corners of the pristine Bogong High Plains that are rarely seen by most visitors. Falls Creek Cross Country offers equipment rental, lessons and tours. Not sure about XC? Then, hire a pair of XC skis between 11am and 3pm ($5 fitting fee after 1pm) and return them within an hour and get your deposit back.

Terrain Parks - Facilities for freeride, freestyle and slopestyle. Drovers Fun Boxes and Fox Trail are rated small for learners, Panorama Park is rated small-medium, Ruined Castle Park is rated large with mid to large jumps and more difficult features and Castle Terrain Park is rated extra large with massive hits, long rails and big gaps.

Twilight Ski and Snowboard - Experience Australia's longest beginner run under lights with night skiing on Wombats Ramble on Wednesdays & Saturdays 6-8:45pm.

Scenic Chairlift - Ride up to Cloud 9 Restaurant in the ski fields on the Halleys Comet Quad Chair. Adult / youth (18-64) is $14 and child / senior (6-17 & 65-69) is $9. Also need a Snow Pass which is an additional $5 if not already owned.

Snowshoeing - There are several trails dedicated to snowshoeing, both beginner and intermediate friendly.

Snowmobile Tours - An exhilarating experience to explore the vast back-country areas of Falls Creek, while taking in the stunning alpine surroundings and spectacular views. You can choose to drive the snowmobile yourself, or sit back and enjoy the views as a passenger (one passenger per driver). Prices range from $220 for a single driver to $275 for 2 adults shared driving.

Snow Tubing - Open daily from 2pm to 6pm, the purpose built Snow Tube Park in the Village Bowl provides fun for the whole family after dark or whilst having a break from the slopes. Participants must be 90cm tall and a minimum of 5 years old. Price is $30 per half hour session.

Fat Biking - On a fat bike you can ride the entire network of groomed cross country ski trails. Fat Bikes are currently not rented at Falls Creek, and need to be brought up the mountain. Bikes are able to only ride on groomed tracks when the temperature is below 0 degrees.

Mim's Ski Program - A renowned women's only skiing program which caters to all ability levels, from beginner through to advanced.

Fireworks Fiesta - There is a fireworks display every Thursday at 7pm in July & August.

Falls Creek Museum - Explore the history of the resort. Free entry.
Route by Car: The road to Falls Creek leaves the Hume Highway just south of Wangaratta and passes through Myrtleford and Mount Beauty.
Public Transport: There are a number of options:
Park & Ride - If you don't want to drive up to Falls Creek, you can park your car and ride up the hill with Falls Creek Coaches. Drive to Mount Beauty at the base of Falls Creek and park your car securely ($8 per night) at the Falls Creek Coaches terminal. From here, Falls Creek is a 45 minute trip away in a luxury coach. The return trip is $68 for adult and $52 for child which includes gate entry.
Coach from Melbourne - Falls Creek Coaches and FallsBus provide services from Melbourne. Return fares from Melbourne are about $154 per adult, $146 per child and $129 per infant (0-4 years).
Entry Prices: The resort entry ticket is $56.00 per vehicle per day when pre-purchased online.
Snow Chains: All vehicles travelling to Falls Creek during the official snow season must carry snow chains at all times and must be fitted where directed. Mount Beauty is the last place to rent or purchase them for your vehicle.
Parking: There is day parking available in The Gully, Slalom and Windy Corner Day car park areas for day visitors. There is no fee for parking. For overnight parking, when you arrive at Falls Creek you drive your vehicle to the Accommodation Transfer Service Terminal, where you unload your luggage and make your way into the terminal to catch an oversnow vehicle to your accommodation. One person from your group will need to park your vehicle in the designated place.
Transfers from Carpark: The return cost of the Accommodation Transfer Service is $47 adult and $30 child (5-17).
Chair Lifts: Peak day lift ticket prices are around $199 per adult (18-64) and $109 per child (5-17). Discounts apply for multiple days, online ordering and shoulder times. Lift access is loaded onto your Mountain Access Card which also needs to be ordered.
Accommodation: On the mountain, there is a range of hostels, lodges, luxury hotels and private chalets. A summary of accommodation options is here. Off-mountain, you'll find plenty of hotels, apartments and holiday homes in the nearby towns of Bright, Mount Beauty and Tawonga.
Food on the Mountain: There are 27 different places to eat and drink at Falls Creek. A summary of Village dining is here. Foodworks supermarket is located within the Falls Creek Resort.
Gear and Clothing Hire: Falls Creek Sports offers rental on the mountain. Other equipment rental options.
Fuel on the Mountain: Fill your car up before leaving Mount Beauty as there is no fuel available in Falls Creek.

MT HOTHAM

Location: North East of Melbourne
Distance from Melbourne: 375km (4.5 hours from Melbourne CBD)
Nearest Town: The closest town of reasonable size is Bright, 55km away.
Resort Contact Details: Phone: (03) 5759 3550, E-mail: marketing@hotham.com.au Facebook: Hotham Alpine Resort, Instagram: Hotham
Resort Map: A map showing the village layout and trails is here. Download the Hotham app to view your live location on the trail map when in resort.
Snow Conditions: See the current Snow, Lift & Run Report for Mt Hotham.
Activities on Mountain:

Downhill skiing / Snowboarding - There are 13 lifts and 75 runs. 20% is beginner terrain, 40% is intermediate and 40% is advanced.

Tobogganing & Snowplay - The Mt Hotham toboggan and snowplay area at Wire Plain, next to car parking, is the place to throw a snowball, make a snowman and hit the moderate toboggan slope. It is also the location of Snowstuff Park which has a range of activities including skidoo tours ($165 for 30 minutes) and sled tours ($195 for up to 2 people for 30 minutes).

Cross-country skiing - Hotham and Dinner Plain have more than 35km of cross country ski trails, including circuits ranging in length from 2-15km, which provide a way to explore the peaceful snow environment away from the bustle of the downhill ski area. Access to these trails is provided at no extra cost. Cross country gear can be hired from Hoys in Harrietville, Mt Hotham and Dinner Plain or Ray's Ski Shop in Myrtleford. Traverse Hotham offers regular beginner lessons, bespoke tours or private lessons (beginner to intermediate). Private lessons can also be booked on request through the Hotham Ski and Ride School.

Terrain Parks - Daredevils can take on the large Summit Terrain Park whilst the Basin Park caters to those looking for more of an introduction to park riding.

Twilight Ski and Snowboard - Night riding sessions will be held on Saturdays and Wednesdays from 6:30pm at the Big D throughout the season. Additional cost applies.

Snowshoeing - Explore the wilderness and alpine views from the top of the Great Dividing Range with over 35km of trails. Shoes are available to hire from outlets around the mountain.

Backcountry Tours - Guided tours, from introductory to private tours, into its renowned backcountry terrain.

Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours - Travel back in time while a team of stunning Siberian Huskies whisks you away into the winter wonderland of the backcountry trails of Mt Hotham. There are tours operating from Mt Hotham and Dinner Plain. A 30min Polar Paws Express tour which includes pat and play time is $370 for 1 adult and 2 children.
Route by Car: Mt Hotham is located between Harrietville and Omeo and is accessible from two directions via the Great Alpine Road all year round. The routes from Melbourne are:

Route 1. Take the Hume Hwy to Wangaratta then the Great Alpine Road direct to Hotham, or the Snow Road via Milawa and Oxley to Myrtleford, Bright, Harrietville and Hotham. Travel time around 4.5 hours.

Route 2. Take the Monash Freeway (which turns into the Princes Hwy) to Bairnsdale, then Omeo, then the Great Alpine Road to Hotham past the Hotham Airport and Dinner Plain. Travel time around 5.5 hours with a distance of 460km.
Public Transport: There are a number of options:
Park & Ride - Hoys operate a Park 'n Ride service from Harrietville on Saturdays & Sundays. They also offer secure storage and equipment hire. Alps Link is a government bus service running from Bright to Omeo via Harrietville, Mt Hotham, Dinner Plain and Cobungra on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Coach from Melbourne - Alpine Spirit Snowball Express operates busses from Mt Hotham through to Melbourne. In 2023 services are restricted to Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only. Prices are one way $90 for adults and $85 for child (under17). HothamBus operate coaches between Friday and Monday between Melbourne and Mt Hotham. Fully flexible return fares are $278 for adults, $230 for child (5-17) and $189 for infant (0-4).
Entry Prices: The resort entry ticket is $58.00 per vehicle per day when pre-purchased online or $63.00 if purchased at the gate on the day.
Snow Chains: It is a legal requirement that chains must be carried during the declared winter period, and only diamond pattern chains are permitted. Chains are not available for hire once on-mountain and must be carried with you from the beginning of your mountain ascent in Harrietville and Omeo. Chains are available from these locations.
Parking: Day car parking is available from 7am - 11pm. Free overnight parking is available 24 hours a day.
Transfers from Carpark: As part of your resort entry fee, there is a free Village bus service to help you move between the village, accommodation and parking from 6.45am to 1.45am seven days a week. Oversnow luggage transfers are available to get your belongings to your accommodation before dropping your vehicle in overnight parking. The cost is $75 return.
Chair Lifts: Peak day lift ticket prices are around $199 per adult (18-64) and $109 per child (5-17). Discounts apply for multiple days, online ordering and shoulder times. Lift access is loaded onto your Mountain Access Card which also needs to be ordered.
Accommodation: On the mountain, there is a range of hostels, lodges, luxury hotels and private chalets. A summary of accommodation options is here. Staying in off-mountain accommodation in towns such as Bright, Porepunkah, Wandiligong or Harrietville can save money.
Food on the Mountain: With a range of cuisines and dining styles, from fine dining to cafes and pub food, you should be able to find something to your taste. There are 11 restaurants, bars and cafes plus facilities including a post office, supermarket and shops. A summary of food and drink options is here.
Gear and Clothing Hire: Shops are located in Myrtleford, Mount Beauty, Porepunkah, Harrietville and Bright, as well as on the mountains. A list of equipment hire places is here.

MT BAW BAW

Location: East of Melbourne in West Gippsland
Distance from Melbourne: 176km (2.5-3 hours from Melbourne CBD)
Nearest Town: The towns near the resort are very small.
Resort Contact Details: Phone: (03) 5165 1136, E-mail: guest.services@mtbawbaw.com.au Facebook: Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort, Instagram: mtbawbaw
Resort Map: A map showing the village layout and trails is here.
Snow Conditions: See the current Snow Report for Mt Baw Baw.
Activities on Mountain:

Downhill skiing / Snowboarding - 35 hectares of snow terrain with 15 ski runs and 7 ski lifts. Over a third of the slopes are aimed at beginners which makes Mt Baw Baw a safe and fun destination for families wanting to experience a snow holiday or learning to ski or snowboard for the first time. There is guaranteed snow all season with a snow factory producing fresh powder in the beginner ski areas. There are ski and snowboard lessons available for first timers and beginners. Private lessons are offered for a range of ages and experience levels. Most lessons last three hours.

Tobogganing - Tobogganing is not permitted anywhere in the resort except for the dedicated toboggan park. Mt Baw Baw offers a snow guarantee on the toboggan park meaning you can toboggan all season. $10 per person ($15 with toboggan hire) for the use of the Magic Carpet in the Toboggan Park in either the morning or afternoon sessions. Children 6 and under are free with a paying adult.

Cross-country skiing - Mt Baw Baw has around 10 kilometres of cross-country trails within the resort boundaries with access to even more trails in the Baw Baw National Park. Access to the trails is free once resort entry has been purchased. "One Ride Lift Passes" to the top of Summit can also be purchased on the mountain if you want to avoid the climb to the plateau ($10 per ride).

Snowshoeing - The sheltered slopes and bowls of the Baw Baw plateau provide the perfect location for beginner to intermediate snowshoeing or hiking in winter.

Tank Hill Terrain Park - The park has a number of boxes, pipes and rails for those of beginner to intermediate abilities. The Terrain Park opens as conditions allow.

General snow play fun

Dingo Snow Walk or Cuddle - Mt Baw Baw has two resident alpine dingoes, Rowdy and Warragul at the Dingo Resource Centre. Join the Alpine dingoes on snowshoe guided walk (and cuddle) around the Village's trails and learn about other endangered locals, including the Baw Baw Frog and Leadbeater Possum. $39 per person with a minimum 2 person charge and a maximum of 4 persons. Snowshoes will be provided if required. Minimum age of 5 years. Walks are available all season midweek and on weekends at special times.
Route by Car: There are four different routes to Mt Baw Baw from Melbourne. The best route can depend on where you live:

A. Travel along the Warburton Highway to Yarra Junction, where you follow the Yarra Junction-Noojee Road through Powelltown and Noojee, and then join the Mt Baw Baw Tourist Road near Piedmont. Continue on through Noojee, Icy Creek and Tanjil Bren until you reach the entry gate.

B. Take the Princes Highway (M1) and exit at Trafalgar and continue along Willow Grove Road to the town of Willow Grove. Travel through Hill End and Fumina until you reach the Baw Baw Tourist Road. From here pass through Icy Creek and Tanjil Bren before reaching the resort gates. This route has lovely views of the rolling hills.

C. Take the Baw Baw Tourist Road via Neerim South and Noojee. This is a windy, narrow road and a number of number of logging trucks use the road.

D. Take Southface Road via Moe, Erica and Rawson. This is a wider, less windy route but there is an unsealed section for about 25km which is generally OK for a 2WD car.
Public Transport: There are a number of private companies offering bus transport to Mt Baw Baw during the winter season from Melbourne, local train stations and towns.

DreamTours offer daily snow tour from the city for $150 adult and $140 child return.
Entry Prices: The resort entry ticket is $55.80 per vehicle (8 seats or less) when booked online. The resort entry is $20 if coming by bus.
Snow Chains: All vehicles are required by law to carry snow chains during the declared snow season regardless of conditions when entering Mt Baw Baw alpine resort. Chains must be carried from South Face Road and from Tanjil Bren. Mt Baw Baw operates a chain fitting service at the resort entry 9am-5pm daily. However, they do not stock chains for all vehicle types and tyre sizes and it is recommended that you hire chains in advance to avoid missing out or delays (chain hire & fitting at gate: $39 for 1 day hire, chain fitting only: $15 for chains hired elsewhere). There is chain hire at Erica, Noojee, Tanjil Bren and Icy Creek.
Parking: A free day car park is available from 7am-7pm at the entrance of the resort. No cars are allowed inside the village so if you are staying overnight you'll need to bring everything from your car to your accommodation. Once you've moved your luggage from the car, you'll need to move your car to one of the overnight car parks about 200m further down the mountain.
Chair Lifts: There are 7 ski lifts and 15 ski runs. There are only surface lifts at Mt Baw Baw, not chair lifts for sightseeing - you must be on skis or a snowboard to use the ski lifts. A daily lift pass is $55 weekday and $85 weekend for an adult, $50 weekday and $65 weekend for concession (students & seniors aged 65-70), $40 weekday and $52 weekend for a child (7-15) and $155 weekday and $225 weekend for a family (2 adults + 2 children). Note that weekend rates apply during the Victorian June-July School Holidays. A night skiing lift pass is $29 per person.
Accommodation: All of the accommodation is within walking distance to the slopes, snow play areas and central Village services. The range of on-mountain accommodation options includes self-contained apartments, cabins, lodges, and backpacker style accommodation. See here for accommodation availability and bookings.
Food on the Mountain: There is a fair selection of food, drink and dining venues in the village. Options include the Village Central Restaurant (lunch and refreshments throughout the week and dinner - bookings required), Alpine Hotel Bistro (quick grab and go hot meal or coffee), Skiosk (hot food, coffee and drinks next to the slope), The Woodshed @ Baw Baw Apartments (drinks and pizza) and Toboggan Park Cafe.
Gear and Clothing Hire: There is only one on-mountain hire store which operates daily 8am-5pm - Mt Baw Baw Ski Hire (no need to pre-book online). Adult ski, boot & pole hire is $53 (child is $35), adult snowboard and boot hire is $58 (child is $43) and adult jacket & pants hire is $35 (child is $25). Off the mountain, Erica Ski Hire in Erica hires toboggans, skis, snowboards, snow shoes and clothing.
Fuel on the Mountain: No petrol is available on the mountain. The last available fuel on the Warburton Highway is in Launching Place/Yarra Junction. If travelling via the Princes Highway, the last major fuel stop is at Trafalgar. For other routes, there is petrol at Neerim Junction, Neerim South, Tyres and Moe.

LAKE MOUNTAIN

Location: NE of Melbourne
Distance from Melbourne: 120km (2-2.5 hours from Melbourne CBD)
Nearest Town: 21km from Marysville
Resort Contact Details: Phone: (03) 5957 7201, E-mail: admin@lakemountainresort.com.au Facebook: Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, Instagram: Lake Mountain Alpine Resort
Resort Map: A map showing the village layout and trails is here.
Snow Conditions: See the current Snow Report for Lake Mountain including live cameras.
Activities on Mountain:

Cross-country skiing - There are over 37km of well signposted and groomed trails winding their way through trees covering Lake Mountain. If you're new to cross country skiing, you can book a lesson at the Snow Sports Centre on the mountain. Snow-making equipment is used to guarantee snow during winter.

Snowboarding - There are gentle slopes which are suitable for beginners. There are snowboarding lessons for beginners and slightly older novices using Burton Riglet program which is the world's premier junior snowboard education program for children aged 3-6 years and Burton's Learn To Ride program.

Tobogganing - There are 4 dedicated toboggan runs. Toboggans are available for hire from the on-mountain Resort Shop for $15 each per day. There is a magic carpet for the Village toboggan run and it's well worth the $5 per person (payable at the shop) if you have young kids.

General snow play fun

Snowshoeing - Snowshoe tours are available Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays with a minimum of four people. E-mail the resort to enquire.

Flying fox - Zip through the treetops on a 240m dual flying fox alongside your friends and family. Available all year round with a minimum height requirement of 110cm (currently not operating).

Tube run - Slide and spin down a 100m tube run in a giant inflated tube (either single or double tubes). Three rides are $10 per person. Available all year round (currently not operating).

Laser skirmish - Play a game of outdoor laser skirmish in the bush with your friends and family. Teams of six or more take each other on, kitted out with laser skirmish gun and a hat with sensors. 45 minute packages available from $15 per person. Contact the resort prior to your visit to organise. Available all year round.

Orienteering - Learn how to read a map and navigate with a compass on one of the orienteering tracks. There are fixed routes of various lengths from short beginner courses that are great for learning and building confidence, to longer, more advanced tracks designed to test the best navigators. Visit the ticket office to get started.
Route by Car: The only way to Lake Mountain is through Marysville.
Public Transport: Public transport is fairly limited. From Melbourne catch a train out to Lilydale on the Lilydale line. Time it to connect with the McKenzies Bus Service which runs once or twice daily to Eildon via Marysville. Alternatively catch the bus from Southern Cross Station.

To get from Marysville to Lake Mountain there is the Lake Mountain Resort Shuttle from Lake Mountain Visitor Centre in Marysville to Lake Mountain at 9am (return on the 1.30pm shuttle) and 10.30 (return on the 3pm shuttle) on weekends and everyday during school holidays. This is a return trip and includes gate entry. Prices are $50 for adults, $40 for children (12 and under) and $140 for a family of four).
Daily Opening Times: The gate at the base of Lake Mountain opens at 8.00am, and the facilities including ski hire, retail and bistro open at 8am every day over the snow season. The gate is locked from 4 pm every night, so visitors have to make their way down the hill to Marysville before lockout at 4 pm.
Entry Prices: The resort entry ticket is $55.80 per vehicle (8 seats or less) when pre-purchased online or $62.00 if purchased at the gate on the day via EFTPOS (no cash), if spaces are available. Please be aware there is no phone reception or WIFI at the resort gate if choosing to pay via online EFTPOS services. It is recommended to pre-purchase tickets to avoid disappointment.
Snow Chains: On occasions, due to heavy snow fall, it is necessary to carry and fit snow chains to two-wheel drive vehicles or engage 4X4 or engage snow conditions on all-wheel drive vehicles where directed. See here for chain requirements. Chain days are called the day before where possible. However, Alpine conditions can change quickly and if necessary chain days may be called on the day. Traffic advisory signs are also located at Marysville where chains can be hired. Chains can be hired from any of the Ski Hires in Marysville or Narbethong before you begin the climb to Lake Mountain. The cost is approximately $30 for the day and you will be shown how to fit the chains when hiring.
Chair Lifts: There are no chairlifts. Lake Mountain is a cross country ski resort only.
Accommodation: There is no on-mountain accommodation as the facility is for day visitors only. The nearest towns with accommodation are Marysville (25 minutes away), Narbethong (35 minutes away) and Healesville (60 minutes away). Marysville is quite a small town and accommodation there is limited, especially during peak periods such as weekends and school holidays. This means that even the most basic accommodation can be relatively expensive.
Food on the Mountain: There is only the Lake Mountain Bistro on mountain and the range is quite limited and expensive.
Gear and Clothing Hire: There is only one rental shop on mountain so hiring your ski gear in Marysville or somewhere else could save time and money. The on-mountain equipment and clothing hire outlet stocks a large range of sizes in both PVC and padded outerwear as well as snow boots to keep your feet nice and dry. The only things you cannot hire are gloves and beanies due to hygiene regulations (although they are available for sale).
Fuel on the Mountain: No petrol on the mountain.
Quirky Info: Don't bother bringing your boat since there is no lake at Lake Mountain - the mountain was named after the surveyor George Lake!

Check out our extensive list of helpful tips for visiting snow resorts to make your experience even more enjoyable.

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Web Links

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Comparison of Victoria's Snow Resorts, , Victoria,