Have you been to Jindabyne, NSW? This small town is just outside the Snowy Mountains and is often overlooked in a rush to get to Thredbo or Perisher. I know, I’m guilty of doing the same thing, as getting to the snow is always the best thing! However, this town actually makes a great (and more affordable) base for exploring the Snowy Mountains, as there are plenty of things to do in Jindabyne all year-round!
Why is Jindabyne popular? It’s the closest town to Australia’s biggest ski resorts, Perisher and Thredbo, but there’s also plenty to do in summer too. From Canberra, it’s a two hour drive.
Here are some of the best options, but know that Jindabyne (or Jindy) is an awesome destination for anyone who loves the outdoors!
Things to Do in Jindabyne in Summer
While the Snowy Mountains tend to attract the biggest crowds in the winter months (Jindabyne is only about half an hour from the ski resorts), it’s a great place to visit in summer too! Think hiking, mountain biking, crisp mountain air, and wildflowers–so serene. It’s an awesome base for summer adventure activities too.
Lake Jindabyne
Jindabyne sits adjacent to Lake Jindabyne and is a picturesque lake, ideal for walking, fishing, and boating—soaring gum trees, mountain views, and gorgeous reflections make this one of the most beautiful lakes in NSW.
Mountain Biking Trails
If you love an adrenaline rush, one of the best things to do in Jindabyne and the Snowy Mountains is mountain biking. The Snowy Mountains are rapidly becoming a popular mountain biking destination in summer. It can be pretty extreme, so if you’re new to it, definitely don’t bite off more than you can chew–take a lesson and start off with easier trails.
In the interest of honesty, I’m not much of a mountain biker, but you can find everything you’d want at one of these awesome facilities:
- Thredbo Mountain Bike Park
- Bungarra Alpine Center
- Lake Crackenback Resort
There are plenty of places to hire mountain bikes too, in case you don’t have your own.
Hiking in the Snowy Mountains
Australia’s Alpine region is one of the most ideal places for hiking–after all, ski resorts almost always double as hiking destinations in summer, and Jindabyne is no exception. In the Snowy Mountains, you’ll also get incredible views of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak.
Some of the coolest hiking trails in Jindabyne and the surrounding Kosciuszko National Park area include:
- Waterfall walking track
- Rainbow Lake walk
- Sawpit track
However, this is literally just the tip of the iceberg! There are dozens and dozens of trails all around Thredbo, Perisher Valley, and the mountains, including challenging hikes for more advanced hikers, so definitely contact Destination NSW to find out more.
Trout Fishing
Trout fishing is really popular in the summer months in Jindy and the nearby lakes. From October to early June, fishing is permitted in most streams and lakes, but always double-check with authorities before setting off.
One great fishing option is Eucumbene Trout Farm, stocked with both rainbow and brown trout–they even have barbecues so you can cook your catch right away.
Jindabyne Gaden Trout Hatchery
Still looking for more trout adventure? Not to worry—in that case, the Golden Trout Hatchery might be for you. This government facility, about 10km from Jindabyne, is definitely not for fishing, but it is a unique place to visit if you’re interested in aquaculture, with guided tours and picnic facilities available.
Horseback Riding
In the warmer months, riding through the countryside is another great option. Thredbo Valley Horse Riding, just a short drive from Jindy, in Crackenback, offers trail rides—even if you’re inexperienced.
Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool
Within Kosciuszko, you’ll find Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool, heated by an underground natural spring. It’s accessible via a short but steep walk, near Tumut and Talbingo. The pools have become more and more popular in recent years though, so they’re definitely no longer a hidden gem in the area–but that’s not to say they aren’t worth a visit!
Things to Do in Jindabyne in Winter
Jindabyne truly comes alive in winter–it’s a gateway to the snow, so definitely plan ahead if you’re visiting in winter! Accommodation can get booked out quickly, especially for families and larger groups.
It’s generally cheaper to stay in Jindabyne than Thredbo or Perisher if you’re going skiing, which is why Jindy (or even Cooma, a bit further afield) are good choices if you don’t want to deal with the sky-high costs of staying in the village.
Skiing and Snowboarding
One of the best things to do in Jindabyne in winter has to be the snow–the ski slopes await! In around 30 minutes you can get to the ski slopes of either Perisher or Thredbo, either by car, bus, or ski tube, a fun train that goes from Bullocks Flat to Perisher. Bullocks Flat is about 20 minutes away from Jindabyne. Hint—the ski tube would definitely be fun for families and young kids!
Both Thredbo and Perisher are incredible ski resorts, both set within Kosciuszko National Park. Note that if you’re driving in, you’ll need to pay the National Park entry fee (which is separate from your lift ticket cost).
Yep, sadly skiing in Australia can be expensive. During winter’s peak season (June long weekend to end of October long weekend), it’s $29.00 per car.
However, it’s worth it as skiing in Australia can be incredible! I’ve gone down the slopes to see a wombat wonder out of its borrow across the snow, there are giant gum trees, gnarled from the wind, and incredible views. If you don’t ski, there’s still plenty to do in Thredbo on a day trip from Jindabyne, even if you just want to stroll along the Thredbo River or chill out with a hot chocolate by a fireplace.
Snowshoeing
If you’ve never tried snowshoeing, now is a great time! It’s basically just walking, so no special skills required—speaking from experience here!
There are snowshoe trails in both Perisher Valley and Thredbo—probably best to ask for a trail map at a local visitor centre. However, Rock Creek Snowshoe Track is a 3km loop that starts in the village and is awesome for beginners.
Where to Eat and Drink in Jindabyne
Jindabyne can definitely be a happening place, especially in the winter months. Lots of skiers and boarders stay in town, which means there’s no shortage of bars and restaurants. Many seasonal ski resort workers live in town too, as it’s more affordable than staying in Thredbo or Perisher, so you’re sure to find something fun to do each evening!
Here are just a few of Jindabyne restaurants and bars that are worth checking out.
Wildbrumby Distillery
Wildbrumby is a really cool spot–this local distillery produces their own gin, vodka, and schnapps, made from local fruits and botanicals, and is open for tours (and sampling, of course!). There’s also live music sometimes and various special events throughout the year.
Plus, there’s a sculpture garden and cafe on site.
Banjo Paterson Inn
Banjo Paterson is perhaps Australia’s most famous poet, author of The Man from Snowy River and Waltzing Matilda, so it makes sense to stop in at the Banjo Paterson Inn.
This local pub, in the centre of Jindabyne, has hearty meals and brews from the local Kosciuszko Brewery.
Takayama Restaurant and Bar
Takayama is a really popular Japanese restaurant, also in the heart of Jindabyne at the Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre, serving up traditional izakaya style mountain food. Warm up with a ramen or curry on a cold night–perfect!
How to Get Around Jindabyne
It’s definitely better to visit with a car, as there’s little to no public transport in the area. Plus, you’ll want a car to be able to get around to all of the sites–most visitors use the town as a jumping-off point for other attractions or outdoor activities in the Snowies. Just drive with caution, as the roads in the Snowies are really windy. In winter, snow chains or snow tires are required on some roads and some passes may close completely during heavy snowfall.
However, there are public buses that run between Jindabyne, Perisher, and Thredbo, but they’re likely to be fairly infrequent and slower than driving.
If Jindabyne’s not on your NSW road trip itinerary, it’s worth adding it on! You can easily fill a few days here as there’s so many things to do in Jindabyne, whether you crave adventure or just want to relax in the mountains.
Featured image courtesy of Tourism Australia.