May Delivers Early Season Snow!

There’s nothing like some early season snow to get us all pumped for the upcoming season. With snow falling continuously through the day, Hotham is painted white! Check the snowcams and see for yourself.   

If you’re up for adventure at Hotham this winter, now is the time to book. Save up to 35% on lift tickets, lessons and rentals by booking early and don’t forget to lock in your accommodation with Hotham Holidays.  

Not sure where to start to plan your trip?! Check out the perfect long weekend itinerary for some insider tips from local legend Drew Jolowicz and get ready for an awesome Hotham stay. 

Thursday, hit the road after work:  After hitting refresh on the new Hotham webcams all day, it’s time to down tools, close the laptop and jump in the car with your favourite playlist.  Just a quick note to make your trip smooth, be sure to carry snow-chains and know how to fit them.  If your vehicle runs on diesel, fill it up with Alpine Mix in Myrtleford, Bright or Omeo and pop some Anti-Freeze additive in the tank at the same time.

For all the latest snow, road and weather conditions, or to check out the latest real time web-cams visit here.

Friday. Bluebird Groomers:  A Thursday evening arrival means you’re ahead of the game. Friday’s change-over day and the slopes may just be a little quieter than usual.  The sun’s shining and the mountain’s groomed to perfection.  For the experienced, pristine corduroy awaits on Heavenly Valley.  Imagine, Snake Gully or Twilight Zone among others are groomed smooth and ready to rip!

For the less experienced, make a bee line for the wide-open spaces of the Summit, Big D or even the Roadrunner for intermediates.  As this is the first day of your trip, whatever your level, consider taking a lesson with Hotham’s Ski and Snowboard School and brush up on those skills – you won’t regret it! For those with kids, all day Kids Club and Mighty Mites are back for this season, so you can make the most of your time on the slopes.  

Make sure you get in early for the best price and beware lessons can sell out in peak times. If you’re an Epic Australia Pass holder, don’t forget you get 20% off when you lock in lessons early  - book here.

Saturday.  Fresh snow, it’s a powder day!  Take advantage of Heavenly Valley early starts with the chair turning from 7:30 am (subject to snow and weather).  You’ll be scoring fresh turns earlier than anyone else in Australia.  Purgatory Spur, Snake Gully or the trees of Wendix are favourites among the locals.  As the morning progresses it’s time to venture out to Gotcha, Keoghs and the Orchard in search of powder.  Hit the steeps of Mary’s Slide, Lindsay’s or The Chute.  Then finish the morning off with a lap on One Tree Hill.

For the ultimate Hotham experience, finish your day on the snow with a Sunset Snow Kat Tour, where you’re transported in a snow cat to the top of the Summit to watch the sun go down – there’s truly nothing like it!

Or, for those who can’t get enough, night skiing is also available Saturday nights under lights down at the Big D. For tickets and details visit here.

Sunday.  Take it slow, retail therapy:  Easy like a Sunday morning.  There’s no need to rush.  For those who like to hit the shops why not visit Pinnacle, the Board-Box or One Tree Sports.  Here you’ll find all the latest and greatest gear from all the leading brands.  Chat to the friendly, knowledgeable staff who can help with all your retail needs.

In the afternoon follow the sun as the snow softens and explore the expanses of the Orchard.  From the top enjoy uninterrupted views of Mt. Feathertop and cruise the treelined pistes of Mitchell’s, Bushwacker and Zirk’s.

Best Après and Eats:  Hotham has a fantastic selection of restaurants, bars and cafes to keep you fuelled and hydrated.  For coffee lovers get your caffeine fix at Chill Bar (located in Hotham Central), or if you’re out on the snow early, hit up Snake Gully or Hoff Hut for a mid-morning coffee and snack break so you can stay out on the snow through the peak lunch hour and make the most of shorter lift lines!

When you do decide to stop for lunch, The Bird is a favourite among locals with a great menu and located just at the base of the summit, access is easy from the slopes!

For evening après and meals the options are many and varied.  Enjoy a drink on the balcony at Zirky’s or the Hotham Hotel and take in one of Hotham’s beautiful sunsets.  Continue the evening at either venue which also offer delicious dinner menus.  Alternatively sample the mouth-watering food and extensive cocktail list down at Miss Mary’s Bar and Eats.  Offering an Asian Fusion menu, the choice is yours, to share or not to share? If you’ve hit up night-skiing there’s plenty of options, with The Genny, Frankie’s and Jack Frost Restaurant + Bar nearby.

To discover all the food and bev options Hotham has to offer click here.

Activities:  Hotham has some unique experiences beyond traditional skiing and snowboarding, round out your trip with a Snowshoe to Fondue Dinner Experience, Howling Husky Sled Dog Tour, Backcountry Sled tour and heaps more. Check out the full range of activities on offer here.  

Plan your holiday with confidence:  Check out Hotham Holidays and discover some of Hotham’s most sought-after premium stays.

So, with amazing terrain, spectacular scenery and an impressive line-up of activities, Hotham is the place to be this winter.