Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

The basics

While Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is a ski resort, it does not offer downhill skiing or chairlifts. Cross-country skiing is the main winter activity here, with more 21 miles (35 kilometers) of skiing trails available. You can also go snowshoeing and toboggan sledding. Thanks to its proximity to Melbourne, day trips are a popular way to visit Lake Mountain; tours typically include transport and give you free time at the resort for you to spend as you like.

Things to know before you go

• Visitors looking to spend several days at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort will find the nearest accommodation down in the town of Marysville.

• You can hire snow gear and equipment from Lake Mountain Alpine Resort Rental Shop; you'll need to leave a driver’s license as a security deposit.

• As Lake Mountain is in a national park, you can't bring dogs to the alpine resort.

• There is a bistro with hot food at the Alpine resort.

• You may want to buy your entry tickets to the resort in advance during busy periods and weekends, as they can sell out.

How to get there

Lake Mountain is just past the town of Marysville northeast of Melbourne; it takes around two hours to drive there from the city. Travel first to Healesville and then take the B360 to Narbethong, followed by the C512 through Marysville. A snow shuttle runs on weekends and during school breaks from the Lake Mountain Visitor Centre in Marysville to the resort; a useful option for drivers without snow chains.

When to get there

Conditions for the snow season are always unpredictable, so if you’re coming to Lake Mountain Alpine Resort for the snow, it’s best to check snow reports regularly before going. Generally, though, the ski season for Victoria is between June and late September. For non-snow-related activities, try to visit Lake Mountain Alpine Resort in November and December when the wildflowers are in bloom and before the summer heat.

Downhill skiing in Victoria

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is one of the closest snowfields to Melbourne, but Victoria’s largest skiing destinations are found farther from the city, deeper into the mountains of the Victorian Alps. Mt. Buller, Mt. Hotham, and Falls Creek are the state’s main snowfields due to their size, altitude, and popularity. Unlike Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, all three offer downhill skiing.

What is the closest town to Lake Mountain?

The closest town to Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is Marysville, Victoria, a 25-minute drive away. It’s a good place to base yourself if you want to spend multiple days at the resort. However, many people come to Lake Mountain on day trips from Melbourne—a 2-hour drive away—instead.

How much does it cost to visit Lake Mountain Alpine Resort?

The cost of visiting Lake Mountain Alpine Resort varies. There's a per-car fee of around US$45 or a per-person fee of around US$15 if you enter in a vehicle of eight or more people, such as a bus. Season passes and discounted entry rates for seniors are available.

Do you need reservations to visit Lake Mountain Alpine Resort?

No, you don’t need reservations to visit Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, and you can buy same-day tickets at the resort’s box office. However, purchasing tickets in advance is a good idea as they may come at a discount. Additionally on weekends, the resort can reach capacity.

Is visiting Lake Mountain Alpine Resort worth it?

Yes, visiting Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is worth it, particularly if you’re a fan of outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing and hiking. It's the closest alpine ski resort to Melbourne, making it an easy destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a convenient break from the big city.

What is the best time of year to visit Lake Mountain Alpine Resort?

The best time of year to visit Lake Mountain Alpine Resort depends entirely on your preferences. If you’re a fan of snow sports, come in winter, when there’s plenty of opportunity to cross-country ski, snowboard, and sled. Summer is ideal for mountain biking, hiking, and camping.

What is the best time of day to visit Lake Mountain Alpine Resort?

The best time of day to visit Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is first thing in the morning, primarily because this will give you the maximum amount of time on the slopes—or out on the trails. It’s a good idea to budget for at least a full day here.