Obviously, skiing is the most popular activity here. More than 50 ski lifts serve the fields of Perisher Valley, Mount Blue Cow, Smiggins Holes, and Guthega. Perisher Valley offers the best overall slopes; Mount Blue Cow is generally very crowded; Smiggins Holes offers good slopes for beginners; and Guthega has nice light, powdery snow and is less crowded. Thredbo (www.thredbo.com.au) has some very challenging runs and the longest downhill runs, but I prefer Perisher Blue (www.perisherblue.com.au) for atmosphere. A day's ski pass at Thredbo and Perisher costs just over A$100 for adults, and around A$60 for children 6 to 14.
You can drive directly to the Perisher Blue resort, or you can take the ski-tube train (starts btw. Jindabyne and Thredbo on the Alpine Way). This travels through the mountains to Perisher Blue and then to Blue Cow. (A "ski-tube train" is a train that goes through a mountain tunnel.) It costs A$47 return for adult skiers, A$26 for kids, and A$112 for a family of four. Ski gear can be rented at numerous places in Jindabyne and Thredbo.
In summer, the region is popular for hiking, canoeing, fishing, and golf. Thredbo Village has tennis courts, a 9-hole golf course, and mountain-bike trails.
Ski Condition Updates -- For up-to-date ski field information, call the Snowy Region Visitor Centre (tel. 02/6450 5600).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
