Charlotte Pass

Winter

Sitting at 1,765m, Charlotte Pass is Australia’s highest resort and immerses guests in a snowy wonderland. The charming resort is completely snowbound, so the only way to get there is via oversnow transport – an adventure in itself as you take a scenic trip through the main range. Charlotte Pass offers the total winter experience on an intimate level, with no long lift lines, no cars, no stress.

Skiing & snowboarding

Being the highest resort in Australia, Charlotte Pass receives some of the most consistent snow falls ensuring plenty of the white stuff for the slopes. Charlotte Pass has something for every level of skier and rider with five lifts delivering skiers to 19 pristine runs. Many are devoted to beginner and intermediate skiers, meaning it’s is perfect for young families with kids just starting out on their ski journey.

Experienced skiers will want to head to Guthrie’s Chutes for that adrenalin rush. The Freestyle Terrain Park is a beacon for those wanting some park action and there are enhanced natural features as well. There are lessons available from professional instructors and an all-day kids program for three to 12-year-olds.

On mountain fun

Have an afternoon nap and book in for a groomer tour after the sun sets. Learn how these snow sculptors groom the runs into a carpet of corduroy and make the runs perfect. Night owls will want to reach for the stars with night skiing and boarding from the Basin Poma on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Early birds will want to sign up for the Mount Stilwell Snow Experience; ride the snowcat up the mountain to see the sunrise, then enjoy first tracks before the lifts even open. Other popular events are the weekly flare run, the standard race for adults, the kids race, snowshoe tours and Onesie Wednesday – pack your best onesie and have some fun.

Accommodation & dining

Accommodation is in 11 lodges including the magnificent Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel – the heart of the resort. Dating back to the 1930s, the hotel is known as the ‘Grand Old Lady of the Mountains’. Guests love sitting by the fire with a hot chocolate, while Kosi Bar & Bistro is the place for lunch and drinks, and the Chalet Restaurant is wonderful for dinner.

After a day on the slopes head to Adams Cocktail Lounge for après ski, with High Tea and live jazz adding to the ambience. The Cellar is another good spot for a drink and has live music Wednesday to Saturday. The Stillwell Hotel is another great option for a meal or drinks. Sit on the deck and enjoy the sweeping mountain views.

Summer

Explore idyllic spring and summer alpine scenery around Charlotte Pass in Kosciuszko National Park, from wildflowers and snow gums to glacial lakes. Enjoy bushwalking and mountain biking, including a track to Australia’s highest point in the beautiful NSW Snowy Mountains.

Hiking & mountain biking

Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk starts in Charlotte Pass, Australia’s oldest and highest snow resort at an elevation of 1,765 metres. The track is 18.6km return or six to eight hours. For mountain bikers, leave your bicycles at Rawson Pass bike stands and walk the 1.4km to Australia’s rooftop.

The scenery along the length of the track is beautiful. You’ll weave past summer alpine wildflowers and snow gums, across the Snowy River and then past the 1929-built Seaman’s Hut to Rawson Pass, where it’s a gradual walk to the mountaintop. Australia’s highest mountain stands 2,228 metres.

The challenging Main Range walk begins in Charlotte Pass. A 22km loop for experienced hikers, Main Range includes the Mount Kosciuszko summit and glacial lakes Hedley Tam and Blue Lake. The striking landscapes along the walking track are part of a UNESCO-protected Biosphere Reserve.

Before you explore the fabulous walking tracks in the Snowy Mountains, read these bushwalking safety tips and follow the advice.