Australia’s highest alpine village is gearing up for a major winter season, with Mount Hotham officially scheduled to kick off its 2026 ski operations on Saturday, June 6, just in time for the King’s Birthday long weekend.
Early signs for the upcoming season have been promising for snow enthusiasts.
The resort received a significant 15cm of fresh snow as early as March, followed by another dusting in early May when temperatures plummeted to a bone-chilling -6.5 degrees Celsius, allowing the resort’s snowmaking systems to undergo successful testing.
Widely regarded as the powder capital of Australia, Mount Hotham offers a unique experience compared to other resorts.
Its village and accommodations are situated at the mountain station, meaning many skiers and boarders start their day at the top of the lifts and ski down into the valley.
The resort’s terrain is spread across several distinct zones, catering to all skill levels:
Beginner: The Big D and The Summit areas provide sheltered, dedicated zones perfect for first-timers, children, and those enrolled in ski school.
Intermediate: Hotham is famous for its extensive network of blue runs. Local favourites include the sweeping, groomed trails found in Heavenly Valley and The Orchard.
Advanced and expert: Seasoned experts can test their skills on the steep lines of Mary’s Slide and Slalom Gully, or tackle the challenging terrain accessible via the Keogh’s and Gotcha chairlifts.
A major drawcard for the 2026 season is the return of night skiing.
Every Wednesday and Saturday night from June 27 to September 12, the Big D run will light up from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
The sessions offer a unique perspective of the mountain under the stars and are free for Epic Australia Pass holders.
While primarily known for its winter sports, Mount Hotham continues to grow as a year-round destination, but it is the arrival of the June long weekend that remains the most anticipated date on the regional calendar.
Whether visitors are looking for the thrill of the steeps or a cozy family retreat in Australia’s highest village, Hotham appears well-positioned for a strong start to the 2026 winter season.
