Hostels in Snowy Mountains

Situated in the far south of New South Wales, Snowy Mountains, Australia is home to the Snowy Mountains, which are part of the Great Dividing Range, a vast range of mountains that follow Australia’s east coast, from the far north to the extreme south. It is here that visitors will discover the highest mountains on the continent and a unique alpine environment, although in comparison to ranges situated on other continents they’re relatively small (Mount Kosciusko, Australia’s highest mountain is just over two thousand two hundred metres high). Despite this, the Snowy Mountain region is a great place to visit throughout the year, with plenty of fun things to do for adventurous and nature-loving backpackers.

During winter, tens of thousands of people descend upon the Snowy Mountains to enjoy snow sports at resorts such as Thredbo, Charlotte’s Pass, Perisher Valley, and Guthega. During winter, fun-loving backpackers can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports during a visit to the area. Many local businesses hire out ski clothing and equipment, so if you haven’t got your own gear, it's no problem. Catering to independent budget travelers, there are quite a few well-equipped backpacker hostels in Snowy Mountains, Australia, right in the heart of all the action, as well as in nearby service centres such as Cooma and Jindabyne.

Much of the Snowy Mountain region is protected in Kosciuszko National Park, Brindabella National Park, and adjacent national parks in the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria. Not only is the alpine environment ecologically unique, but it’s also extremely culturally significant, as for thousands of years Indigenous Australians lived in the mountains, subsisting off the endemic flora and fauna. More recently, in the late nineteenth century, the famous Australian poet A.B. (Banjo) Paterson wrote one of his best-loved poems, "The Man From Snowy River," about the fictional exploits of a High Country stockman –- a work with which almost every Australian is familiar.

During summer, the Snowy Mountain region is a popular destination for hikers, and many trails criss-cross the region. There are plenty of short walks in Kosciuszko National Park, as well as more challenging hikes such as the track leading to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko and the epic long-distance trail, the Australian Alps Walking Track, which passes through alpine country areas of New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory. Other fun outdoor activities in the Snowy Mountains include horse riding, mountain bike riding, road cycling, water skiing, and kayaking.

Apart from adventurous outdoor activities, there is plenty to see and do in the Snowy Mountain region. Many larger towns such as Cooma and Jindabyne hold regular market days where shoppers can buy local produce, handcrafts, and other treasures. These events include the Cooma Rotary Markets and the Bredbo CWA Village Markets, although there are plenty of others as well. There are also regular community festivals, musical performances, agricultural shows, and special events held throughout the region, so it’s a good idea to ask the local tourist bureau or your hostel for what’s happening during your visit.

As it's a popular tourist destination, the Snowy Mountains are also a good place to find casual work for a few months –- especially during the winter months when thousands come to indulge in their love for snow sports and local businesses need extra staff. Once again, ask at your Snowy Mountains, Australia hostel to find out more.

The Snowy Mountain region is very easily accessible from all parts of Australia, both by private and public transport -- especially Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra. Regular buses service the major towns and ski resort.

Handwritten by local expert for Snowy Mountains hostels Carsani