Best Time to Ski in Australia: All Months Compared

Planning your next ski trip but can’t decide when to book your Alpine Property Collective accommodation? With the season stretching multiple months and plenty to keep you busy all year round, there have never been more options for travellers looking to book their stay in the Snowy Mountains. The big question is, when is the best time to ski in Australia? Below, discover your complete guide for the best time to ski in Australia to help you decide which month is the best match for your next alpine adventure.

When is the Best Time to Ski in Australia?

If you are hoping for top-tier snowfall and maximum snow depth, then August is the ultimate month for your Australian ski adventure. You will also find elite conditions during July, however, this month is usually busier, which you may want to take into consideration when you are planning your trip.

When is the Australian Ski Season? 

Australia’s ski season kicks off in mid-June and closes at the end of September or early October, depending on the weather conditions. The top five ski resorts list their season start as 11th June and generally close between the 2nd and the 4th October. Each alpine resort is different, so you should keep this in mind when you are booking your accommodation. 

Which Month Has the Best Snow?

The best months for snow in Australia are July and August, which usually have the highest levels of snowfall. You will experience approximately 22 inches of snow across each resort during July, and 23 inches throughout August. These levels are almost twice the amount of snow in June and September. Snow quality is slightly more elevated in August in comparison to July, which is due to the better base depth. Later in the season, the snow quality is not up to the levels that July and August showcase. This is because the temperature gets significantly warmer, and the snow starts to melt, becoming wetter and heavier as the season comes to a close. In June, the snow base depth is far lower, so the quality is not as good. 

What is the Average Temperature?

July is the coldest month in alpine areas, with an average of 1.4 Degrees Celsius. June and August sit at a similar temperature, falling anywhere between 2.4 Degrees Celsius and 1.8 Degrees Celsius. September is warmer, and October is the warmest month of the season, averaging at 7.8 Degrees Celsius. Compared to other international ski resorts in North America and Europe, the temperature in Australia’s snow season is high. This means that it is never extremely cold, and you can still comfortably enjoy your adventures outside on and off the slopes. For those who prefer warmer weather, September is the best choice. The snow quality will be lowered, but the temperature will be higher, so you should try to time your trip to get the best balance of warmth and snow quality. 

Which Month is the Quietest?

If you are hoping for a calm and serene ski trip, June is the best time to travel. This time is more peaceful than others because it is before the school holiday starts, and the snow is lower in quality, so many tourists won’t be visiting until July and August. Mid-July is the busiest time, with school holidays and peak conditions in full swing. Later in the month, it begins to quiet down, but the traffic picks up again during August. September is generally quieter, however, it starts to bustle when the school holidays begin again later in the month. Due to the close of the season, keen skiers will also make the most of the time of year before the snow disappears. 

Which Month is the Cheapest?

If you are travelling on a budget, you will want to head to the Snowy Mountains during June or September. For lift tickets and accommodation, they are typically the most cost-effective months for a trip. Prices climb during school holidays in July, and they begin to taper off throughout August, however, rates remain relatively high as this is the time when the snow quality is at its absolute best. 

Comparing the Months

Take an in-depth dive into the skiing experience in Australia from month to month. 

June 

The conditions in June are highly variable, with the ski season typically only starting in Mid-July. The average snowfall in June is lower compared to any other month in the season. Since the conditions are not as attractive, prices are significantly lower, and the slopes are quieter. If you are travelling on a budget, or you want to escape the crowds, June is the month for you. 

July 

July is highly popular due to the amazing snowfall and conditions. It can be more expensive to ski in Australia during June, and it is one of the busiest times of year out on the slopes. Late July sees a reprieve in crowds and prices, so this can be a good option if you want to get the best of both worlds.

August 

August is a brilliant time to ski in Australia, with brilliant conditions, high snowfall and base depths. Lift and accommodation rates are lower in August when compared to July, as the school holidays do not fall at this time. 

September 

September is warmer, and therefore the conditions are not as desirable as in July and August, the snow becomes wetter, but the base depth is still good. This time of year is also more affordable. 

October

As the final month of the season, October sees wet snow and low base depth. This is when the season ends, so you may be able to enjoy a few favourable days; however, the conditions are never going to be at their best. 

Best Time of Day to Ski

The best time of day for skiing in Australia is earlier in the morning, as the slopes are freshly groomed and are ready to be conquered! You will also get in before the crowds, and you can enjoy all the other amazing activities on offer during the afternoon.

Now that you know everything you need to know about the best time to ski in Australia, you can start to plan your vacation! Explore your accommodation options for your next trip with the experts at Alpine Property Collective today.