Winter Driving

Driving in the Snowy Mountains During Winter

Exploring the Snowy Mountains and Australian Alps in winter is an unforgettable experience. From snow-capped peaks to breathtaking scenic lookouts, the journey is as beautiful as the destination. But along with the stunning views come some serious driving challenges—icy roads, sudden weather changes, strong winds, heavy vehicles, and unexpected wildlife like wombats and kangaroos.

Be Prepared for Alpine Driving Conditions

Driving in alpine areas during winter requires extra care, and there are regulations in place to keep all visitors safe. If you’re heading into Kosciuszko National Park, here’s what you need to know:

  • 4WD Vehicles: Snow chains are not mandatory, but we strongly recommend carrying them at all times.

  • 2WD Vehicles: You must carry snow chains between 1 June and the October long weekend on these roads:

    • Kosciuszko Road from the park boundary at Thredbo River

    • Alpine Way between Thredbo and Tom Groggin

    • Island Bend / Guthega Road (entire length)

Snow chains are not compulsory between Jindabyne and Thredbo or on the Snowy Mountains Highway, but we always recommend having them on board just in case. Failing to carry or fit chains when required can result in fines.

Helpful Resources

If you’re new to snow driving, we urge you to plan ahead, understand the conditions, and stay safe on the road. Alpine Country Holidays has put together some helpful resources to guide you:

LINK – BP & [Boss Rentals]: Snow Chain Rentals

BP Skihire [Boss rentals] are the leaders in snow chains in the Snowy Mountains, located here in Jindabyne. They have chain hire and fitting for all models and makes of cars as well as ski and snow hire for all your winter sports equipment.

LINK – BP Skihire [Boss Rentals]: Snow Chain Fitting Demonstration

If you’re wondering how to fit snow chains, BP Skihire [Boss] has put together an instructional video and step-by-step guide to get you safely on the road. Snow chains must only be used if there is snow on the roads and must be removed on clear stretches.

LINK – Winter Tips from SnowSafe

Plan your winter drive to the Snowy Mountains with this great guide from SnowSafe. Get info on all the Aussie ski fields, learn what to do in case of an emergency, and get helpful hints on the basics of driving in the snow. Pre-planning is key!

LINK – Shuttle Bus to the Resorts [Winter Only]

Why drive when you can sit in a warm coach to the mountains? – During the ski season, a service operates between Jindabyne and Perisher during the Peak Season (19 June to 21 September) on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. During the Off-Peak Season (10 June to 18 June and 22 September to 01 October), services between Jindabyne and Perisher, Friday to Sunday, operate at the same frequency as the Monday to Thursday timetable.