Summer in the Snowy Mountains? Yep, it’s a thing

The Kosciuszko National Park mountain range – aka The Snowies – is the highest in our great southern land, boasting five of the highest mountains in the continent (literally huge).

Summitting is the natural highlight: a 4 hour round trip from the Thredbo chairlift will take you to the highest peak in the country (2228m). Umm, 360-degree views over glorious greenery? Talk about King of the Hill. You can also take in majestic views of Australia’s highest peaks on the Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk and Charlotte Pass to Perisher walk.

Take your time soaking in the majesty of the mountains over four days on the Snowies Alpine Walk. One of seven NSW Great Walks, this epic multi-day hike covers 56km of diverse alpine terrain.

Time to share a well-kept secret: the waterways around the Snowy River have some of the best trout fishing in the country. Major lakes like Jindabyne and Eucumbene have shallow bays and wide waters to cast your line in, not to mention a Bond-esque mountain range to frame pictures of your catch of the day.

To try your hand at fly fishing, Thredbo River or Bullocks Hut are great spots. Go further afield to the northern end of Kosciuszko where you’ll be treated with a variety of places to, “drop in a line” such as the Blowering, Tantangra or Talbingo dams. Of course, there’s also the mighty Murray and the Murrumbidgee rivers. No gear? Most fishing spots offer guided beginner lessons, so catching and cooking dinner over an open fire is definitely on the cards.

A balmy day floating on the river is exactly how the Aussie summer should be spent. Cool off in the Thredbo River at Thredbo Diggings campground – pack some snags to cook on the BBQ and make a day of it. Or head to Lake Jindabyne for a chill kayak with your mates. You can also pick up the pace (and your heart rate) with windsurfing or wakeboarding. Both are excellent for making a splash in your summer.

Pro tip: wakeboarding requires more core strength and coordination than you’d think, making it the perfect way to get shredded.

Climbing, caving and abseiling? These classic adventure activities are a lot more accessible in the summer when the caves are clear of snow and the icy air won’t sap the feeling from your fingers. Ledges to haul yourself over, gaps to squeeze through and drops to sail down can be found from the Snowy Mountains down to Canberra. You’ll need to book in with experienced guides who can supply you with all the right safety gear – from outdoor bouldering to abseling, you can choose your difficulty (and fear tolerance) level.

Wanna take the effort out of caving? Get up close on a guided tour through Jillabenan Cave. It may be the smallest of the Yarrangobilly Caves, but with its impressive display of delicate straws and shawls, cave coral, stalactites and helictites, it’s a show-stopper.

The Snowies – being hilly, rocky and rugged – are perfect to cruise down on bikes. Whatever your skill level, Thredbo has rides to suit everyone – from the extreme Cannonball Downhill, best for experienced riders, to the more relaxed Thredbo Valley Track (TVT), which features shorter, easier sections alongside adventurous, technical options. TVT can be ridden in stages to suit your experience and confidence. Crushing trails then cooking damper over a campfire with mates? Sounds like just what your summer plans are missing.

While the drink of choice in Thredbo during ski season is a mulled wine, winding down after hiking or canoeing around the parks calls for something a little lighter and a little cooler. Check out nearby vineyards and cellar doors to sample the best vinos the region has to offer (with a side of cheese). If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find breweries and distilleries scattered through the hills. All have pristine views, but who are we kidding? You’re here for a quality drop.