If you’re planning a summer escape around Jindabyne, few experiences rival the feeling of rolling down the windows and cruising through the Australian Alps. The Lake Jindabyne region is framed by high peaks, glacial rivers, rolling plains, and hidden canyons — and the roads linking them are as much part of the adventure as the destinations.
Drawing on the scenic-drive guide from Alpine Country Holidays, here’s your inspiration for the perfect summer road trip through the Snowy Mountains.
Why Summer Drives Around Jindabyne Are Magic
In summer, the Snowy Mountains reveal a completely different side — lush green ridgelines, fields of wildflowers, rushing rivers, and wildlife like kangaroos, brumbies, and lyrebirds. The air is warm and clear, the roads are open, and the views are endless.
It’s a time when the region truly comes alive, with opportunities to picnic beside alpine streams, stop at local farm gates, and wander through charming towns that dot the countryside. Whether you’re a keen photographer, nature lover, or just seeking a peaceful day on the road, the area around Jindabyne is full of possibilities.
As the Alpine Country Holidays Scenic Drives Guide puts it:
“Whichever direction your compass leads, there are scenic drives close to Jindabyne that will take your breath away.”
A Drive for Every Mood
From gentle lakeside loops to high-altitude mountain passes, Jindabyne’s road network offers something for everyone. Head towards Dalgety and Berridale for a taste of rural life and Snowy River views, or travel up the Alpine Way for crisp alpine air and wildflower displays.
The Alpine Way is a must for those who crave adventure — winding through Thredbo and into the heart of Kosciuszko National Park, it’s one of Australia’s most beautiful drives. Along the way, you’ll find lookouts with sweeping views, cool river valleys, and plenty of perfect picnic stops.
If you prefer a slower pace, a drive to Gaden Trout Hatchery or Cooma offers scenic views without steep climbs, making it ideal for relaxed afternoons or family outings. And for those seeking a longer journey, heading toward Yarrangobilly Caves or the Far South Coast rewards you with dramatic shifts in landscape — from alpine meadows to coastal rainforests and beaches.
Tips for Cruising the Snowy Roads
-
Check road and park conditions. Some alpine roads require entry permits or may have seasonal closures.
-
Fuel up before you go. Many routes travel through remote areas, so it’s best to start with a full tank and pack water and snacks.
-
Be weather-wise. Summer storms can appear quickly, and temperatures can vary even in one day — bring layers and sun protection.
-
Respect the local wildlife. Wallabies and brumbies often appear near roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
-
Take your time. These drives are made for stopping — whether it’s a lookout, a short walk, or a riverside picnic spot.
A Perfect Summer Drive Day
Start your morning with a lakeside coffee in Jindabyne, then head toward the Thredbo River Valley and the Gaden Trout Hatchery for a peaceful riverside stroll. Continue up the Kosciuszko Road into the mountains, where you’ll find crisp alpine air and sweeping vistas over the Snowy River.
Stop in Perisher Valley for lunch and a short stroll along the boardwalk for a bird’s-eye view of the Main Range at Charlotte’s Pass.
It’s a day that captures everything special about this region — open skies, winding roads, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about driving through the Snowy Mountains in summer. The air feels lighter, the colours more vivid, and the landscapes seem endless. Each road from Jindabyne leads to something new — a lookout, a river, a quiet mountain village — and every journey feels like an adventure.
Whether you plan a quiet half-day loop or an all-day alpine expedition, summer drives around Jindabyne promise breathtaking scenery and a deep connection to Australia’s high country.
For more inspiration and detailed drive suggestions, explore the Scenic Drives Guide on Alpine Country Holidays.
