Australia is known for heated summers and breathtaking beaches that will never make you think you can also see snow. While the country is known for its mild climate, several areas get snowfall which surprises many people who have never visited Australia before.
This article will tell you does Australia get snow or not and about the unexpected winter landscapes that exist in this sun-drenched country.
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Does It Snow in Australia?
Yes, it’s true, Snow does fall in Australia. While Australia is known for its warm temperature there are some areas where snow falls throughout the winter. The Australian Alps located in the country’s southeastern region are among the most snow-prone places.
Popular ski resorts such as Thredbo and Perisher allow winter sports lovers to hit the slopes. Tasmania is the island state south of the mainland which also sees snowfall at its higher elevations. Snowfall in Australia may not be as often or as intense as in other countries. But it does show a unique depth of the country’s climate and terrain.
5 of the Best Ski Resorts in Australia
Australia’s ski resorts give a one-of-a-kind alpine experience that draws visitors from all over the country and the world. Australia does not have the huge mountain ranges that some other countries do. But its ski resorts offer a lot of things for winter sports fans to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other snow activities.
You can visit these ski resorts during your trip to Australia in winter:
1) Thredbo Alpine Village
Thredbo Alpine Village is a top ski resort in Australia’s Snowy Mountains. It has the country’s longest ski runs including the legendary Supertrail. It also has a lot of terrain parks for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Thredbo’s lively village environment has restaurants, bars, and lodging options which makes it a popular year-round destination.
2) Perisher
Did you know that Perisher is known as the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere? It has ski areas like Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega, stretching over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. The resort’s wide lift network provides convenient access to the slopes and its lodging and food options are for everyone’s budget.
3) Falls Creek
Falls Creek is located in the Victorian Alps. It has a great alpine scenery and many terrains. The resort offers over 90 lines for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. It has cross-country skiing paths and snowshoeing options. Falls Creek’s pedestrian-friendly village has ski-in/ski-out accommodations, restaurants, and stores. This makes it a convenient and pleasant destination for guests.
4) Mount Buller
Mount Buller is a great ski resort known for its closeness to Melbourne and lively atmosphere. Mount Buller has over 300 hectares of skiable terrain including beginning slopes, intermediate routes, and other regions. The resort’s alpine village is home to a lot of lodging options, restaurants, pubs, and stores. It has a vibrant scene both on and off the slopes.
5) Mount Hotham
Mount Hotham is located in Victoria. It is recognized as “the powder capital of Australia” due to its stunning alpine terrain and beautiful snowfall. The resort has many terrains including Australia’s highest mogul run as well as backcountry skiing and snowboarding options.
Mount Hotham’s hamlet offers ski-in, and ski-out lodging, restaurants, and nightlife. It is a popular location for winter sports lovers looking for adventure and excitement.
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Is It Common to See Snowfall in Australia?
Snow is uncommon in most of Australia, especially in the warmer regions. Yet it does snow in some parts of the country, particularly in the southeastern regions such as the Australian Alps and Tasmania.
The Australian Alps which span New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory, get consistent snowfall from June to September. This region is famous for its ski resorts and winter sports activities.
During the winter months of Tasmania, snowfall occurs at higher elevations, particularly in the island’s central and western regions. So even though snow is not common throughout Australia, it does occur in some areas. It occurs the most in mountainous areas and during the winter months
Historical Snow Events in Australia
Australia has seen a lot of snowfalls throughout history, especially in its southeastern parts. The “Great Snowstorm of 1836” event happened in 1951 when extreme snowfall occurred in the Australian Alps during the winter and it caused traffic problems disturbing New South Wales and Victoria.
These events show the rare but dangerous presence of snow in Australia which shows the country’s cultural relevance and complex climate. Despite being less common than in other areas of the world, snow episodes in Australia leave a mark on the landscape and collective memory of its southeastern regions.
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FAQs
Which ones are the snowy areas of Australia on the map?
Australia’s two primary snowfall areas are the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales and the Victorian Alps. You will need to see a map of these areas online to help you plan your visit.
How rare is it to see snowfall in Australia?
Snow is relatively uncommon in Australia. Less than 5000 km2 (0.15%) of the mainland sees regular snow cover for more than a month each year.
Conclusion
So, Does it ever snow in Australia? Yes, the Australian Alps, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory receive regular snowfall in the winter. Snow in Australia has a big impact on tourism especially due to ski resorts and winter sports activities. Australia is a country with a complex climate and geographical features. It has both its distinctive traits and contrasts with the more widely associated image of a sun-soaked landscape.
