TRAVELLING TO THE SNOW

Before you go

Making the most of your visit to the Alpine Resorts takes a little bit of prep.

Before heading to the mountains for your snow holiday, there are a few things you need to have covered to ensure you and your family stay safe, and make the most of your time on the mountain.

From carrying snow chains to organising your Resort Entry Pass, we can point you in the right direction to make sure you have a fantastic winter getaway.

Things to book in advance

Accommodation: From cosy alpine lodges, indulgent chalets and luxury hotels, there is a range of accommodation options to choose from. On-mountain village accommodation often becomes ski-in-ski-out during the snow season – when booking, check if your accommodation offers transfers. Alternatively, stay off-mountain for your winter escape.

Resort Entry Permit: If you’re driving up the mountain, you'll need to purchase a Resort Entry Pass, print it, and display it on your dash. Each Alpine resort has different entry requirements - find out more below, or check the Alpine Resorts Victoria website.

Snow chains: Carrying diamond-pattern snow chains in your vehicle is mandatory in the Alpine resorts during the declared snow season. Pick up a pair before heading up the mountain - and if you've never fitted them before, make sure to find out so you don't get stuck.

Lifts and kit: If you’re planning to go skiing or snowboarding during your trip, book your lift tickets and lessons online before you go, to maximise your time on the slopes. For a seamless snow experience, we recommend organising where you'll hire or purchase your snow gear prior to arrival, too. Planning ahead = more bang for your buck.

Over snow transport: Navigating Victoria's snowfields varies by village. Falls Creek offers a true ski-in, ski-out experience with a free village shuttle and paid oversnow luggage transfers - check with your accommodation whether you’ll need this service. Mt Buller is connected by free shuttles for day guests. Overnight guests need to pre-book a Ride Share Transfer to take you and your luggage to your accommodation. At Mt Hotham, three village hubs are spread along a ridgeline, linked by a free shuttle bus network for day and overnight visitors. A paid bus can take you from Mt Hotham to nearby Dinner Plain, which is entirely walkable.

Different ways to get there

Driving in snowy conditions can be challenging. To make your snow holiday as easy and stress-free as possible, there are a number of bookable transport services to get you up the mountain safely, including coach services, private transfers, and even chartered flights.

Take a look at transport options at Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Mt Buller.

If you’re driving, remember to do so with caution. Check weather and snow conditions regularly, and ensure you’re carrying snow chains and have your resort entry permit sorted.

All vehicles must carry snow chains

To ensure you and other road users reach the slopes safely, Diamond Pattern Wheel Chains must be carried and fitted where directed during the declared snow season (6 June – 4 October). These requirements apply to all vehicle classes, including all-wheel and four-wheel drives.

Snow chains can be bought or hired from many vendors in the region. Chains are not available for hire once you are on the mountain, so pick up a pair before your ascent.

It’s important to know that not all vehicles can fit wheel chains due to clearance and design limitations. Before travelling, check if your vehicle is compatible with chains, and if you've never fitted them before, make sure to find out.

When necessary, you will be directed by signage, authorised resort staff or Victoria Police to fit your snow chains in a designated chain fitting bay or pullout.

Snow chains improve safety for drivers, passengers and other road users in alpine conditions. A little preparation goes a long way in helping keep you, and everyone else, safe on the road.

Resort Entry Permits

All vehicles entering the Alpine Resorts during the declared snow season must have a Resort Entry Permit. These fees help fund vital services like Ski Patrol, snow clearing, waste management and environmental initiatives.

Each Alpine resort has different entry requirements. Dedicated snow lovers can purchase an All Resorts Season Vehicle Permit for unlimited access to the resorts throughout the season, or you might only need a day or multi-day, single resort permit. Check the Alpine Resorts Victoria website to find out what’s right for you.

Pre-purchase your Resort Entry online prior to arrival, and to help speed up your entry, print your Resort Entry Pass and display it clearly on your dash.