From the rugged mountain ranges of Kosciuszko National Park to the grazing plains of the Monaro, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be explored in The Snowy Mountains. So as the snow begins to melt and the weather warms up, let’s dive into our top picks for the best hidden gems to explore in the Snowy Mountains this summer…
Enjoy A Walk
Home to Australia’s highest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko, the Snowy Mountains are renowned for awe-inspiring high altitude hikes. But there’s plenty to explore down low in our gorgeous Monaro townships. For a quiet and leisurely stroll away from the crowds, the Bombala River Walk is a favourite. It hugs the banks of the Bombala River, famous for its platypus population, for approximately 2.2km. Be sure to pack some lunch and take advantage of the BBQ and picnic facilities, and keep your eyes peeled for some splashing platypus.
Find A Quiet Lookout
If you’re looking for maximum impact with minimal effort, you just can’t go past a picturesque lookout. A scenic drive from Jindabyne, Jacks Lookout in the southern area of Kosciuszko National Park offers superb views over the Snowy River Valley and famous Snowy River. Make use of the picnic area whilst enjoying the incredible views across the southern Australian alps and spotting native wildlife, before continuing on for a drive to explore the lower regions of Kosciuszko National Park.
Mountain Bike Away From The Crowds
We’re sure you’ve heard of award winning Thredbo Mountain Bike Park, and possibly driven straight past this hidden mountain bike park gem on your way there! Mount Gladstone Mountain Bike sits just outside of Cooma, offering well maintained trials to suit every level and magnificent views. Enjoy a mid-ride coffee or substantial post-ride meal at Miss Heidi’s Teahouse. Plus, the panoramic views from the lookout over the Monaro and towards the mountains are a stunning reminder of the vast terrain waiting to be explored in the Snowy Mountains.
Make A Splash At This Swimming Spot
Whilst there’s no shortage of beautiful, quiet places to set up a towel around the foreshore of Lake Jindabyne, there’s just something about diving into the cool waters of the mighty Snowy River! As the only town in NSW on the banks of the Snowy River, Dalgety makes for the perfect spot to set up a picnic, find a good rope swing and enjoy the day splashing in the water.
Experience Something New
Whilst it might not be an obvious choice of things to do when visiting the Snowy Mountains, The Corrective Services NSW Museum in Cooma is a fantastic experience for the young and old. Learn about the 200 year penal history of incarceration from convict days to the present in NSW Prisons. Cooma Goal is a working prison and you can also enjoy a guided tour of the museum with a prison inmate or guard – how unique is that!
Uncover The Past At A Historic Hut
The Snowy Mountains are dotted with heritage mountain huts worth exploring. The Early Settlers Hut, believed to be the first European dwelling on the Monaro, is located one kilometre southwest of the township of Delegate. After exploring the mid 1800’s squatters style building, take some time to explore the historical village of delegate and its surrounds.
From cosy corners to eat and drink, to unique accommodation, and scenic drives, your next adventure in the Snowy Mountains awaits!