A Magical Kosciuszko Alpine Way Road Trip

Twist and turn along the Kosciuszko Alpine Way for a journey steeped in mythology and untold adventure.

The Kosciuszko Alpine Way spectacularly snakes its way up and over the Snowy Mountains, the highest section of the Great Dividing Range, through magnificent landscapes of mountain forests mythologised by Banjo Paterson.

Steeped in intrigue and a storied history that stretches back millennia, this iconic NSW road trip is a well-trodden path. Every summer for thousands of years, Aboriginal people would cross tribal boundaries and travel the Alpine Way to the high country to meet for corroborees, trading, marriages and more, and to feast on bogong moths.

More recently, it was used as a drover’s stock route and for the literally groundbreaking Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme that you’ll learn about en route. And although it’s only just over 100 kilometres in length, squiggling between Jindabyne and Khancoban near the Victorian border, the Alpine Way is a route to be savoured.

Stop off along the way to walk to Australia’s highest peak, immerse yourself in adventure, or simply sit back, inhale the fresh alpine air and sip a crisp Kosciuszko Pale Ale or snow-pure local schnapps. Our action-packed itinerary covers the Alpine Way’s very best bits.

Start at Cooma

Your journey begins at the gateway to the Snowy Mountains in the alpine town of Cooma, just over four hours by car from Sydney and 1.5 hours’ drive from Canberra. It’s an ideal spot to launch yourself headfirst into the adventure of the region and learn about its monumental heritage.

Kick off your Alpine Way road trip at the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre – with its models, interactive exhibits and historical photographs – to learn the story of a modern engineering wonder: the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme.

a kid exploring an interactive exhibit at Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre — Kids will enjoy the interactive art and science installations. (Image: Destination NSW)

One of the most complex integrated water and hydro-electric power systems in the world, designed to divert water from the Snowy River westwards beneath the Great Dividing Range to drought-proof parts of NSW and Victoria, the scheme plays out in real-time from Jindabyne to Khancoban.

an exhibit inside Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre and Cafe, Cooma — Touring Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre is a truly immersive experience. (Image: Destination NSW)

For a fresh start in the morning, kip overnight at boutique Nebula Motel, a cosy hosted stay on one of Cooma’s historic streets or several campgrounds.

And if you’re visiting on the third Sunday of the month, drop into Centennial Park, right off the main road, where you’ll find the monthly Cooma Rotary Markets stocked with local artisan products and food stalls.

Cooma to Jindabyne

Distance: 62 kilometres
Travel time: About 45 minutes

Head west from Cooma along Kosciuszko Road until you reach Jindabyne. The moment you crest the hill just outside of town and see stunning Lake Jindabyne pool out before you is the first of many ‘wow’ moments you’ll experience along the Alpine Way.

Lake Jindabyne is stunning from every angle. (Image: Destination NSW)

This glassy expanse forms part of a major dam created in the mid-1960s as part of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, drowning old Jindabyne in the process. Today the town sits scenically around the lake’s foreshore and, with its crisp mountain air, serves up outdoor adventure and indulgence in equal measure.

sunset views over Lake Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains. — Fiery sunset hues unfurl over Lake Jindabyne. (Image: Destination NSW)

Join fellow adventurers fuelling up for the day at the buzzing Birchwood Cafe, where nourishing breakfasts include avo toast stacked with feta, tomato salsa, pickled onion, radish, pomegranate and peanut dukkah, dippy eggs with fried zucchini soldiers and a vegan brekkie wrap of pulled marinated jackfruit, tofu scramble, pickled zucchini, spinach, vegan mayo and mustard.

a family biking along Lake Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains — Stroll around Lake Jindabyne on two wheels.

Then hire a bike from Sacred Ride and cycle scenic local trails or spend the morning climbing and abseiling the ‘Jindy’ Rock at Lake Jindabyne with boutique adventure-tour company K7 Adventures before settling in for a well-earned drink and a classic pub meal overlooking the lake at the Banjo Paterson Inn. And don’t forget to stop in at Wildbrumby Schnapps’ Distillery & Cafe to sample their quality takes on the sweet stuff.

the exterior of Wildbrumby Schnapps’ Distillery & Cafe, SNowy Mountains — Make a pitstop at Wildbrumby Schnapps’ Distillery & Cafe.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

Jindabyne to Thredbo in Kosciuszko National Park

Distance: 21 kilometres
Travel time: 20 minutes

Before hitting the Alpine Way proper, enjoy a quintessential Jindabyne experience with a stay at one of its superlative accommodation offerings such as Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa, west of town in the Thredbo Valley.

kayaking along Lake Crackenback at sunset — Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa is perched on the lake.

It boasts two excellent onsite eateries, Cuisine Restaurant & Bar and Alpine Larder, as well as a day spa and all manner of outdoor activities including mountain bike and walking trails, Segway tours and guided fly-fishing tours. The 60-hectare alpine oasis is peppered with lake views and mountain chalets and makes for the ultimate retreat for a night or two.

a rustic bedroom at Tinkersfield Hut — Check into a charming rustic hut at Tinkersfield.

Alternatively, check into nearby Tinkersfield, a more intimate affair secluded in the Crackenback Valley with a curated choice of rustic-chic, high-country hideaways – think antique timber, clawfoot bathtubs and open fireplaces – including the one-bedroom Field Huts and two-bedroom Barnhouse and Post Office.

a woman walking along Ram Ranges Head, Kosciuszko National Park — Walk along massive rocks at Ram Ranges Head in Kosciuszko National Park. (Image: Don Fuchs; Destination NSW)

Back on the road and you’re on the Alpine Way, cruising into Kosciuszko National Park with its pine-clad ridges as immortalised in Banjo Paterson’s iconic poem The Man from Snowy River.

frost over the vegetation along the Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk — Find frost-covered vegetation along the Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Keep a look out for a diverse range of farm animals and wildlife along both sides of the road. Upon our last visit, we spotted emus, cows, alpacas, horses, kangaroos, wombats and deer on the one single drive. Incredible.

a scenic road trip along Alpine Way, Thredbo in the Snowy Mountains — Journey through the Snowy Mountains. (Image: Alexandra Adoncello; Destination NSW)

A classic winter destination that’s home to the ski fields of Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte’s Pass, as well as Australia’s highest mountain, Kosciuszko reveals a whole different side in the warmer months.

skiers riding the chair lifts at Charlotte Pass Ski Resort in the Snowy Mountains — Lift off from the snowy grounds at Charlotte Pass Ski Resort. (Image: Destination NSW)

And the ultimate way to experience it is via the Kosciuszko Chairlift. Lifting off from Thredbo Valley Terminal, this thrilling joyride sweeps up the mountain for 560 vertical metres, offering breathtaking views of the national park and a gateway to Thredbo’s alpine hiking trails. But before you get exploring, hop off and treat yourself to lunch with a view at Eagles Nest, Australia’s highest restaurant. The menu is always evolving but its pizzas remain consistently delicious.

friends enjoying their lunch at Eagles Nest — Enjoy lunch with a view at Eagles Nest.

Day walks include a trail to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, the highest peak in the country. Breathing fresh alpine air, you’ll pass granite outcrops and alpine meadows coloured with wildflowers come summer, until you’re 2228 metres above sea level with 360-degree views of the Snowy Mountains – and a true sense of wonder at being at the top of Australia.

a woman enjoying the scenic views across Kosciuszko National Park — Bask in the cold mountain air at Kosciuszko National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Thredbo to Khancoban

Distance: 77 kilometres
Travel time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

The most stunning stretch of the Alpine Way twists and turns soon after you leave Thredbo. Roll down the window to let in the unique scent of the Aussie Alps – pine trees mingled with eucalypts – as you descend the hairpin mountain road that looks, on a map, like it’s been drawn by a polygraph.

vehicles parked on Tom Groggin campground — Pull up your caravan at Tom Groggin campground. (Image: Murray Vanderveer/DPE)

You’ll practically kiss the Victorian border at Tom Groggin campground before taking a sharp turn north towards Khancoban and the end of the Alpine Way. Make it last by including a few scenic pit stops and bushwalks along the way.

Halfway along this stretch you’ll find Geehi Flats, a secluded picnic and camping spot located on the sparkling Swampy Plains River.

a man enjoying a day of fly fishing in Swampy Plains River, Kosciuszko National Park — Fly fishing is common along the Swampy Plains River. (Image: Don Fuchs; Destination NSW)

Simply stretch your legs and take a peek at the first of three historic alpine huts in the area, or head off on the six-kilometre Geehi huts walking track, which takes in two more plus river crossings and more magnificent Snowy Mountains views.

Geehi Hut at Geehi Flats campground — Camp on Geehi Flats for a secluded spot alongside the river. (Image: Murray Vanderveer/DPE)

You can also opt to pitch a tent for the night on the river’s grassy banks for maximum tranquillity (bookings essential via the NPWS website).

a man biking around the scenic landscape at Geehi Flats — Go biking around the scenic landscape at Geehi Flats. (Image: Murray Vanderveer/DPE)

Fifteen minutes further up the road you’ll find Scammell’s lookout, 1000 metres above sea level and offering spectacular views back the way you’ve come from. From here you can trace the contours of the rugged western fall of the Snowy Mountains’ Main Range.

snow covered gum trees at Blue Cow ski resort, Perisher — Perisher has good skiable areas like Thredbo. (Image: Destination NSW)

Enjoy the diversity and rugged beauty that Kosciuszko has to offer near Thredbo and Perisher along the Illawong walk, Pallaibo walking track and Waterfall walking track, which are great for nature-spotting sessions.

the Thredbo Valley Track signage, Kosciuszko National Park — Take the mountain bike route to Thredbo Valley Track. (Image: Lucy Morrell/DPE)

One of the best ways to have an adventure in the Snowies is to hire a mountain bike or e-bike (or take your own) and hit the Thredbo Valley Track. It’s a 35-kilometre trail back to Jindabyne which winds through stunning alpine terrain with scenic suspension bridges and spectacular sections running alongside the Snowy River. The track offers world-class mountain biking for all abilities, from easy beginner rides to a challenging full-day ride and is typically open from November to May, depending on the weather. Another alternative is hitting the trails at Thredbo Mountain Bike Park, to experience scenic cross-country trails and Australia’s only lift-accessible terrain.

a mountain biker crossing a suspension bridge at Thredbo Valley Track — Traverse through stunning alpine terrain with scenic suspension bridges. (Image: Elinor Sheargold/DPE)

Further along the Alpine Way however, you’ll arrive in Khancoban. Originally built to house workers on the Snowy Mountains Scheme, Khancoban sits on the western edge of Kosciuszko in the foothills of the mountains.

the controlled spillway at Khancoban Dam — Khancoban Dam has a controlled spillway that flows across the Swampy Plain River. (Image: Don Fuchs; Destination NSW)

Today the small town’s scenic pondage, which forms part of the scheme, is used recreationally for fishing, kayaking and water sports. And, part of the idyllic Snowy Valleys region, it marks the end – or perhaps just the beginning – of the legendary Alpine Way.

a scenic view of the Khancoban Pondage — The town of Khancoban is nestled in the idyllic Snowy Valleys region. (Image: Snowy Valleys Council; Matt Beaver)

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

Park the car and go off-piste

Three multi-day adventures to have in the Snowy Mountains:

1. Make like The Man from Snowy River and immerse yourself in the Kosciuszko wilderness on a three-to-five-day horse-riding trek with Reynella Rides. Departing from Adaminaby, about 50 kilometres from Cooma, from November through to the end of April, there’s surely no better way to travel through the Snowy Mountains and its landscape of wildflower carpets, alpine streams and open plains. The team make things easy by arranging pick-up and drop-off transfers from Cooma, too.

2. Spend five or six days paddling the Snowy River through the ancient landscape of the Byadbo Wilderness in the remote southern reaches of Kosciuszko with Alpine River Adventures. Led by an Aboriginal guide for interpretation of Country and Indigenous perspectives, the unique journeys depart from Numeralla near Cooma and take in beach camping, river gorges and chances to spot quoll, platypuses, kangaroos, emus and sea eagles in the wild. Trips run year-round, with guaranteed water levels from August to November.

an aerial view of kayakers on Snowy River, Alpine River Adventures — Go paddling on the Snowy River with Alpine River Adventures. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Take on Australia’s 10 highest peaks with boutique tour operator K7 Adventures. Join a hiking tour through the high country from November to May with guide and landscape photographer Mike Edmondson. It’s an unforgettable opportunity for experienced walkers with good fitness levels and offers 360-degree views of some of the most extraordinary sights in the country.

a man skiing in Thredbo, Snowy Mountains — Take in remarkable sights on top of the Snowy Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

Written by Imogen Eveson and updated by Kristie Lau-Adams.

With more than 60 nationalities calling it home and a century of Italian influence shaping its paddocks and plates, Griffith is a regional Australian town with serious culinary cred.

It might feel surprising to learn that Griffith is one of Australia’s leading food destinations. In-the-know Italians have understood this for generations, drawn to the Riverina region’s fertile soils that reminded them of the terrain they’d left behind more than a century ago. These days, Griffith supplies much of the nation’s pantry: 95 per cent of Australia’s prunes come from the region, it’s the country’s largest citrus-growing area, and it’s a leading producer of almonds and walnuts. Even the pickles in every McDonald’s burger nationwide are produced in Griffith. This is not just a farming town; the Griffith food scene is leading the way.

Here, culinary confidence is rooted in migration. Italian families began arriving from 1913, with a second wave settling after the Second World War. Today, Griffith has the highest proportion of Italian ancestry of any Local Government Area in Australia. Add to that more than 60 nationalities represented across the community and you have a town where food is driven not by trends, but by tradition. Griffith’s motto, ‘Taste our culture’, isn’t marketing spin; it’s the reality.

Where the vines tell a story

A hand pouring wine into a glass, with a table filled with food. — Uncover the stories behind every glass. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Riverina has long been dubbed the food bowl of Australia, but it’s also a wine region that remains largely under the radar. What sets Griffith apart is that every one of its wineries is family-owned, many spanning generations.

Calabria Family Wines is one of the region’s standard-bearers. The Calabria story began in 1945 when Francesco Calabria planted his first vines; today, the family continues to shape the region’s identity while also stewarding the historic McWilliam’s Wines brand. McWilliam’s was the first winery to plant vines in the area, and its barrel-shaped cellar door – complete with a soaring stained-glass window – remains one of the most distinctive in regional NSW.

Yarran Wines, run by the Brewer family, showcases estate-grown fruit across Mediterranean varietals that thrive in the warm climate. Expect bold reds and textured whites that reflect both heritage and innovation.

Set inside the old ambulance station, Harvest HQ is owned and operated by the Riverina Winemakers Association and pours a rotating selection of local wines under one roof. It also features spirits from The Aisling Distillery, reinforcing the region’s collaborative approach to craft.

At the table

A flat lay of a steak. — Dine where tradition meets a bold new generation. (Image: Visit Griffith)

If the vineyards tell one story, the dining rooms tell another. Griffith’s restaurants are where tradition and next-gen confidence meet.

Zecca Handmade Italian occupies the former Rural Bank building, an imposing Art Deco landmark from the late 1930s. ‘Zecca’ means money print, and the name is a nod to the Zecca di Venezia in Venice. Here, find the Riverina’s only producer of dried artisan pasta and traditional Italian recipes. Importantly, the growers and producers supplying the kitchen are listed on the menu as a transparent expression of the region’s farm-to-table ethos.

Established in 1977 and still run by the Vico family, La Scala puts authentic Italian cuisine on centre stage. Expect handmade pasta, traditional wood-fired pizzas, slow-cooked sauces and dishes that follow recipes guarded like family heirlooms. For something more contemporary, Bull & Bell in Gem Hotel is a shrine to the Euro-style steakhouse that works closely with local farmers and artisans to showcase Riverina produce.

And then there are the institutions. Bertoldo’s Pasticceria, now in its third generation, draws locals daily for cannoli, biscotti, crostoli and house-made gelato, alongside classic sausage rolls and potato pies. La Piccola Grosseria feels like stepping into an Italian alimentari, its shelves lined with continental goods that wouldn’t feel out of place in Puglia.

Meanwhile, Limone celebrates local and seasonal produce across breakfast and lunch menus, enriched by the produce and stories of Piccolo Family Farm. Find pastries and sourdough baked daily, and pop into the onsite retail pantry for products from regional producers – including the Piccolo family’s own wine range, Caro Piccolo.

From the source

A plated Aquna Sustainable Murray Cod dish. — Taste world-renowned Aquna Sustainable Murray Cod, straight from its source. (Image: Visit Griffith)

Behind every menu is a producer. Aquna Sustainable Murray Cod is perhaps Griffith’s most high-profile export; the brand’s Murray cod and Aquna Gold Murray Cod Caviar have achieved global recognition. In October 2024, Aquna presented its products to King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the NSW Premier’s Community BBQ in Parramatta. Impressed by the producer’s sustainable farming practices, the King requested the cod be sent to Buckingham Palace – not bad for a fish farm in regional NSW.

Mandolé Orchard champions almonds grown on a family-run farm, transforming them into almond milk and value-added products. At Morella Grove, olives are pressed into premium olive oil and pantry staples that speak to Griffith’s Mediterranean heart. These producers are not peripheral; they are central to the town’s culinary ecosystem. Learn about local sustainable farming practices during a farm tour.

Mark your calendar

A woman walking past a food mural, something you can spot during A Taste of Italy Griffith. — Plan your visit around A Taste of Italy Griffith. (Image: Visit Griffith)

For a town that helps stock Australia’s supermarkets, Griffith has remained curiously absent from the national dining conversation. That’s beginning to change. If you’ve been searching for a regional food destination with substance, heritage and a clear sense of identity, you’ll find it here in the Riverina, right under your nose.

Time your visit to the Riverina region to coincide with A Taste of Italy Griffith, held every August. This week-long celebration of Italian heritage and culture offers a wide range of Italian-inspired events and experiences to enjoy. Expect long-table lunches, wine tasting experiences, cooking classes and a Makers in the Piazza market. The headline event is a ticketed long lunch – Festa delle Salsicce (Salami Festival) – where winners of the best salami are announced.

Start planning your foodie getaway at visitgriffith.com.au.

A road trip itinerary along the great Kosciuszko Alpine Way

Twist and turn along the Kosciuszko Alpine Way for a journey steeped in mythology and untold adventure.

Start at Cooma

Cooma to Jindabyne

Jindabyne to Thredbo in Kosciuszko National Park

Thredbo to Khancoban

Park the car and go off-piste

You can meet this orphaned baby wombat on the Central Coast

Your ultimate guide to the best bottomless brunches in Sydney

Is this 10-course beachfront trail the ultimate way to welcome spring?

Transport NSW says Sydney ferries will not be free after all

This surprising regional town is making its mark on the culinary world

With more than 60 nationalities calling it home and a century of Italian influence shaping its paddocks and plates, Griffith is a regional Australian town with serious culinary cred.

Where the vines tell a story

At the table

From the source

Mark your calendar

Twist and turn along the Kosciuszko Alpine Way for a journey steeped in mythology and untold adventure.

Start at Cooma

Cooma to Jindabyne

AI Prompt

Jindabyne to Thredbo in Kosciuszko National Park

Thredbo to Khancoban

Park the car and go off-piste

You can meet this orphaned baby wombat on the Central Coast

Your ultimate guide to the best bottomless brunches in Sydney

Is this 10-course beachfront trail the ultimate way to welcome spring?

Transport NSW says Sydney ferries will not be free after all

With more than 60 nationalities calling it home and a century of Italian influence shaping its paddocks and plates, Griffith is a regional Australian town with serious culinary cred.

Where the vines tell a story

At the table

From the source

Mark your calendar