While the snow has almost melted from the higher peaks and mountains the weather is always changing. It is one of the features of walking in the Snowy Mountains.

You always need to be prepared for all conditions.

Like many travellers I always recommend speaking with the locals for updates on suggestions for walks and also interesting places to visit. Many of the people living and working in the Snowy Monaro choose to do so for the active lifestyle and the fact that their backyard offers so much diversity year round and so many opportunities to experience the lakes, rivers and mountains.

Jindabyne is a great hub to choose a diverse range of walks for distance but also factor in the weather conditions. Bluebird days you can walk the higher peaks and cooler weather.

Thredbo Resort will be bustling and has numerous events and promotions through summer and is a lot more than just the mountain biking….. Check www.thredbo.com.au

Make sure you are prepared for sun with our elevation, clean air and also little shelter being above the tree line. The days when stronger winds or changeable weather you can choose lower elevation and forested places. You have the lake for swims or rivers to cool down plus a range of restaurants and hotels/breweries to refuel and relax. Check www.destinationjindabyne.com.au for some ideas

Many are surprised by the changeable weather in the Snowy Mountains but that should not slow down the opportunities to have adventures. Whether you choose to walk, ride or simply relax and take in the fresh air and awesome scenery.

What people do not hear much about is the accessible walking off trail and the vast wilderness areas available…and did I mention the alpine wild flowers.

A good map available in some of the good local outdoor and adventure stores make anything possible for those well prepared and organised.

Phone reception is very fickle in the mountains so mapping Apps are not the most reliable and colder weather diminishes battery life so “know before you go” rather than relying on technology.

Here is a list of the “must haves” for a safe adventure in the mountains.

Trip Intention Form – you can do this online or at the Snowy River Visitor Centre;

Take a PLB – available from SRVC at no cost;

Ensure you have a plan and have told family or friends what that is;

Do NOT rely on your phone to navigate but get one of the many good maps that are available of the Snowies Alpine Walk and for Walking, bike riding or 4WD’ing;

Ensure you are prepared for all weather conditions especially with the harsher sun we are exposed to plus the cool winds. Dress appropriately, rain, hail shine.

If you are looking for any details there is the Snowy Region Visitor Centre plus a number of stores but Wilderness Sports is a one stop adventure and outdoor shop and open seven days with guide books, flora and fauna and a large range of maps and accessories to enjoy the outdoors and any adventures here.

We also have a huge hire range of items like child carriers and backpacks, tents and gear you never knew you needed.

We also offer guided tours and experience to share and ensure you enjoy your visit to the Snowy Mountains. For bookings and local outdoor information go to

www.wildernesssports.com.au or call Bruce 0417 217 750

Local commercial tours operator and walks information www.wildernesssports.com.au/pages/hiking-walking-tours

Before you head out ensure you have made some preparations and most importantly whether day or overnight trips fill out a Trip Intention Form.

See the links on the National Parks and Wildlife Services website and also note occasional closures of trails regarding events, weather or feral animal programs

Visit the NPWS website for information on closed sections of the park at www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/kosciuszko-national-park

Be sure to pack all the right material before setting out on your hike these summer holidays.