EXPLORE HOTHAM: THE INSIDE LINE FOR OUTBACK ADVENTURE

Situated in the heart of the Victorian Alps Hotham is the perfect base to explore the Victorian backcountry. Not far beyond the ropes lies some of the most breathtaking and easily accessible ‘earn your turns’ terrain in Australia. Keeping reading for information on where and when to go, go and what to pack, and up-to-date forecasts and what’s on at Hotham this spring. 

Location, Location!

We’re fortunate at Hotham in that the village sits on top of the mountain at an elevation of 1750 metres above sea level. This truly unique layout enables quick and easy access to many amazing touring zones surrounding the immediate resort, meaning in some cases descents can be achieved before even putting skins on for the up-track. 

The Learning Curve

As far as progression is concerned, Hotham’s renowned advanced inbounds terrain is the perfect place to develop the skiing or snowboarding skills required to tackle the backcountry. If you feel comfortable riding the resort’s heart pumping advanced terrain with the right equipment and skillset Hotham’s back country zones could be waiting for you. With numerous short tours on offer, lap first lifts in the morning and as sun warms solar aspects later in the day, grab your back country kit and touring buddies to venture out beyond the boundaries. 

Secret Stashes

Aspect and elevation is key for unlocking the best day possible. We’re lucky at Hotham in that there’s a great variety of terrain accessible on many different aspects and elevations. 

Eagle Ridge

This popular touring zone can be reached from the top of Heavenly Valley and the Loch carpark. On the right day for those new to touring this is the perfect place to hone your up-hill travel skills. Moderate descents await with some more challenging objectives further to the skiers right. From the top enjoy spectacular views across the Razorback Ridge right out to Mt. Feathertop and back around to the resort itself. 

Mt Loch

Situated within close proximity to the top of the Orchard Chair lies Mt. Loch. This terrain is better suited to the more experienced tourer with steeper descents off Machinery Spur and more advanced up-hill travel skills required. Typically, in early spring the predominantly East facing solar aspects will soften first providing silky smooth corn snow later in the morning. 

Dargo Bowl

Not far from the Drift T-Bar is Dargo Bowl. In deep winter after a fresh snowfall this Horse Shoe shaped gem offers some amazing riding starting up high in some alpine bowls before descending down into the snow-gums. Tip: If the snow falls with a north westerly feed, this is where the snow will be. 

Safety

There are many considerations to take into account when planning a day in the back country. If you need to know more check out our Backcountry Safety page.

It is up to you to ensure you assess the snow & weather conditions. Conditions change every day from morning to afternoon, it’s important to understand how the conditions impact the safety of you and your group. You are responsible for learning about and managing the natural hazards that occur outside resort boundaries. Ski patrol monitor and manage the snow pack inside of the resort boundary daily to ensure the safety of our guests.

Rescue from the back country can take several hours, the best policy is to always make educated, safe & conservative decisions

What you should take with you. What's in everyone’s packs will vary slightly but at a minimum the following items should be included: 

• Beacon, shovel, probe and touring skins 
• Spare gloves and extra layers 
• Water bottle and food 
• First Aid kit including a space blanket 
• Maps/Compass 
• Ice navigation tools (if surface conditions are firm ski or boot crampons may be required). 
• Head torch 
• PLB (Personal Locator Beacons are also highly advisable). 

As always never travel alone. Let family and friends know your intended travel plans and expected return times. Trip intention forms can also be lodged with Mt Hotham Ski Patrol. 

OneTree Sports

If your new to the backcountry needing to top up your kit, or simply want to try out the latest in touring skis or boards, pop into One Tree Sports where the knowledgeable experienced team can help with all your backcountry needs. A fleet of touring skis and split-boards are available to rent, as well as beacons, shovels probes and touring skins in both retail and hire.

Stay Informed and Check the Forecast

Be sure to verify conditions before heading out. Weather can change rapidly in Alpine environments catching even the most experienced off guard. 

Here at Hotham, Director of Ski Patrol Bill Barker produces a daily snow report each and every morning throughout the winter season also issuing backcountry travel advice. Accomplished mountain guide and all round Hotham legend, Bill is one of the most knowledgeable people in the industry.

What’s on at Hotham this Spring

As we edge closer to September the Victorian Backcountry Festival is back for 2023. Held across three days (Sept 1-3), this year’s event will play host to a variety of outdoor workshops, tours, competitions, a full speaker’s program and even an outdoor bar! For those passionate about the Australian Backcountry this is an event not be missed.

So, with Spring on the horizon the time is now to venture out and about. Longer days and warmer daytime temps often produce excellent conditions for backcountry skiing or boarding. Pack your kit, grab your touring buddies and chase the solar aspects during the spring corn harvest season. See you on the skin-track as we all explore Hotham!