Snow holidays can be about so much more than lift passes and first tracks. Don’t get us wrong—skiing and snowboarding are amazing! But there are plenty of other lovely things to do in the snow that don’t involve binders. Our snowy peaks are, after all, National Parks, and there is ample opportunity to slow down and enjoy nature—or dial up the fun! With the snow season about to kick off at Mount Buffalo, Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Dinner Plain, we’re sharing this list of the best snow activities in Bright & Surrounds that don’t require a lift pass.
Sleep in an Igloo
Once the snow is thick enough, Alpine Nature Experience at Mount Hotham builds igloos complete with cozy beds at its hidden eco village. Alternatively, you can stay in one of their luxury and super cool Hypedomes anytime of year. Join everyone in the toasty teepee for your hosted dinner, including authentic French fondue, wine, and warm glühwein around a firepit. A night at the eco village is one of the most unique experiences you can have in alpine Australia. Pair it with activities like a snowshoe tour, skidoo ride, or an outdoor hot tub surrounded by snow gums and stunning views, and we’re certain you’ll have a memory that will last a lifetime.
Enjoy a Sled Dog Ride
Yes, you really can ride in a sled pulled by huskies in Australia! Slide through the snow gums with a pack of very excited pups and your very own musher from Howling Huskies, located between Mount Hotham and Dinner Plain Alpine Village.
Snowmobile Tour of Alpine National Park
Get out and explore the beautiful backcountry of the Alpine National Park around Falls Creek on a guided snowmobile tour. You can drive the snowmobile yourself or relax as a passenger. For the ultimate experience, head out at twilight to watch the snow turn pink and purple under the orange glow of the horizon.
Tobogganing—five slopes to choose from!
Tobogganing is a fun and affordable activity and a favourite among little kids. Mount Buffalo National Park is a fantastic option when the snow is thick and fresh. It’s two toboggan runs—Dingo Dell and Cresta Valley—are natural and free to use. There is a café at Dingo Dell that opens when the toboggan run is classified ‘open’. Make sure to hire toboggans (and snow chains!) in Bright, Porepunkah or Myrtleford before you head up the mountain. Dinner Plain Alpine Village is another great option for tobogganing. The slope makes use of a snow machine to compliment the natural snow, so it’s very reliable. Tickets are just $10 per person for a day pass (kids under 3 are free). Toboggans can be hired at Dinner Plain, there is a wide selection of warm places to eat, parking is available near the slope, and there is no resort entry fee to enter the village. For those visiting the ski resorts (resort entry applies), Mount Hotham has a toboggan run at Wire Plain. Tobogganing here is free with resort entry (toboggan hire available), but jump online to reserve a 50-minute session. Over at Falls Creek, you’ll find the toboggan slope at Windy Corner. There is a fee to use the slope. Toboggan hire and a café can be found at Windy Corner.
Snowshoe Tour of Mount Buffalo
Get out and explore the backcountry of Mount Buffalo National Park on a beautiful snowshoe tour. An experienced guide will help you with your snowshoes (which are very easy to use) and ensure your walk is filled with stunning scenery while also teaching you about backcountry snow safety. It’s a wonderful way to experience the unique granite boulders of Mount Buffalo, which differ significantly from the landscape of the Alpine National Park.
Picnic in the Snow
For the simplest, most affordable way to enjoy the snow, pack a picnic and head on up to Mount Buffalo National Park (Cresta Valley, Dingo Dell or The Chalet) or the Alpine National Park around Dinner Plain (along The Brabralung Trail between Dinner Plain and JB Plain) and immerse yourself in the peace and quiet of alpine Australia. These beautiful areas amid the snow gums are free to visit. Don’t forget a thermos (you’ll appreciate a warm drink!), and waterproof shoes, warm gloves, beanie and clothing. Make sure to build a snowman and stay out of the backcountry unless you’re Bear Grylls. If you plan on walking, you can hire snowshoes from Hoys Dinner Plain.
Forget the World and Just Holiday!
Sometimes you just need to chill—in the warmest possible way—sit by the fire in your own private chalet, enjoy a hot soak, a massage at the Day Spa, go to a different restaurant every night, park yourself at the wine bar and watch the snow fall outside the window. Dinner Plain is a great option for a winter retreat, with a range of restaurants to choose from, the Big Muster Distillery, the Dinner Plain Onsen and Alpine Beauty & Massage. Falls Creek has the lovely Astra Day Spa as well as some fantastic restaurants, and Mount Hotham (just 10 minutes from Dinner Plain) has the most unforgettable alpine views.
And then, dare we say it, there’s plenty of skiing and snowboarding!
Snow Chain Hire
For all activities above, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got snow chains for your vehicle before driving up an alpine mountain. Chains can be hired from Bright, Myrtleford, Mount Beauty, Porepunkah, Harrietville and Omeo. Not sure what to do with them? We’ve prepared this handy video on How to fit snow chains.
(June 2026)