Set amongst the stunning snowgum-lined slopes of Mt. Hotham, this 100% volunteer-run event invites snow-shoers, cross-country and telemark skiers, alpine ski tourers, split-boarders, snow campers, and alpine-curious newcomers to immerse themselves in the heart of backcountry culture.
More than just a festival, the weekend is a grassroots gathering created for the backcountry community, by the backcountry community. The festival fosters connection, learning, and adventure — all while championing sustainability and responsible alpine recreation.
This year’s jam-packed program includes:
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Guided Tours for all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned backcountry explorers (additional cost applies).
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Film Screenings highlighting local and international alpine communities and landscapes.
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Workshops covering essential skills such as ski tuning, gear maintenance, snow camping & shelter building, first aid, navigation, and even backcountry coffee brewing.
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A Repair Cafe offering expert advice on gear mending and DIY fixes to keep your equipment working like new, season after season.
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Guest Speakers with stories from global expeditions, insights into mountain safety, and voices from brands like Patagonia.
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Nature Walks led by Friends of the Earth and Protect Our Winters Australia, exploring the snow country, and how our climate is evolving and changing.
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Outdoor Bar with frosty beverages and the chance to make new backcountry friends!
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Raffle Prizes included with every general admission ticket and merchandise sale — backcountry gear giveaways await a few lucky attendees!
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer, a little curious about journeying into the Aussie backcountry, or somewhere in between, the Australian Backcountry Festival is your opportunity to immerse yourself in all things alpine!
Tickets cost $40 (with a 25% discount for students!) and are available on the Australian Backcountry Festival website. Follow the festival socials channels to stay up to date with the lineup and catch some behind-the-scenes content!
About the Australian Backcountry Festival:
The Australian Backcountry Festival is a 100% volunteer-run event, by the backcountry community for the backcountry community.
The Festival aims to not only provide an introduction to the ever-growing suite of backcountry activities, but to also make it more accessible to the general public whilst educating them about mountain safety. It is a family-friendly, welcoming, and inclusive event.
The Festival celebrates the growing movement of ‘all things backcountry’, comprising human-powered winter activities such as cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing, telemarking, alpine ski touring, splitboarding, and snow camping.
More than 300 people attend the Backcountry Festival each year.