From the dramatic Grand Pacific Drive to the rainforest-fringed Waterfall Way, NSW is home to some pretty spectacular drives — and winter is arguably the best time to hit the open roads. Cruising through gorgeous landscapes with crisp mountain air, fewer crowds, and the occasional dusting of snow in the cooler months offers an unforgettable way to experience the state’s raw, natural beauty. Take, for instance, the Alpine Way Drive — a winter classic that offers some of the most sublime views of the Kosciuszko National Park. Snaking past magnificent mountains, gentle streams and icy rivers, incredible walking trails, cosy campgrounds and landscapes blanketed in white, this is the kind of route that begs to be explored in winter. Here’s everything you need to know about this epic drive.
Alpine Way Drive
The route takes you from the ever-popular alpine town of Jindabyne to the quiet village of Khancoban, near the Victorian border, winding through the southern end of NSW’s largest national park. Along the way, you’ll be treated to sweeping mountain views, snowy forests, and the striking western edge of the Main Range — offering a gorgeous snapshot of the High Country’s rugged beauty. Best traveled in winter and spring, this route also holds deep cultural meaning — Aboriginal people traditionally used it to access the mountains.
Highlights of the Alpine Way Drive
Without any extended stops, the journey typically takes no more than 3 hours, but if you’ve got time to spare (and you should, given the route’s tremendous scenic beauty), start with a stopover in Cooma, the largest town in the Snowy Mountains and a true winter wonderland. While you’re there, enjoy truffle tastings and vineyard views at Macenmist Black Truffles and Wines, or chase a thrill with white-water rafting on the Snowy River.
Then continue on to Jindabyne, for spectacular lake views, a spot of indulgence at Lake Crackenback Spa and Wellness Centre, and easy access to ski resorts like Perisher and Charlotte Pass. Even if you’re not in the mood for outdoor activities, the atmosphere here is cosy and inviting as ever. Leaving Jindabyne, the Alpine Way leads into Kosciuszko National Park — a thing of beauty with endless natural wonders from caves to thermal pools, peaks, walks and much more. A walk to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko is a must (just check the weather before you go), then make your way to Thredbo Village for night skiing, stunning flare runs, fresh alpine air, and long winter nights, perfect for stargazing.
If you want to stay a while, a variety of campgrounds are available, including Tom Groggin campground by the river, the secluded Island Bend campground near Perisher, Thredbo Diggings, where you can camp under the snow gums, and Geehi Flats in the Khancoban area with barbecue facilities, picnic tables and more.
Key details
What: Alpine Way Drive
Where: Thredbo-Perisher area and Khancoban area in Kosciuszko National Park
Distance: 108km one way
Total time: 2 to 2.5 hours with no stops on the way
Fees: Park entry fees may apply
Ready to hit the road? Find the full Alpine Way itinerary here, and remember to check for alerts or road closures on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
How to get there
The easiest way to reach the Alpine Way from Sydney is by car; it’s around a 5-hour drive to Jindabyne via the M5, Hume Highway, and Snowy Mountains Highway. From there, the Alpine Way winds on to Khancoban. You can also take a train to Canberra, then a bus to Jindabyne. Plan your travel on Transport for NSW.