Whether you’ve never seen snow or you’re a gun skier, it’s time to make tracks for the crisp air and fresh powder of Mt Baw Baw.

Melbourne’s closest downhill ski resort, Mt Baw Baw opens for the winter season on June 11, and it’s perfect for everyone — from families who want to try skiing, snowboarding or tobogganing for the first time to experienced snow lovers keen to carve up a tree run.

Mt Baw Baw is just two hours from Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, and one hour from Gippsland, with on-mountain accommodation ranging from private rooms in a classic ski lodge to stylish self-contained apartments, making it the perfect choice for a day trip, a weekend or a longer holiday.

New in 2022, there’s an intensive program of three and four-day snowboard and ski lessons for kids on weekends and school holidays, including lift passes and certificate. Leave the kids with one of our friendly Snowsport instructors for some child-free time on the slopes or in one of the mountain’s cafes and restaurants.

And there’s plenty to do for those who don’t want to hit the slopes too. An alpine dingo walk and cuddle experience runs Monday to Friday all snow season via the mountain’s Dingo Resource Centre. Take Mt Baw Baw’s resident dingoes Rowdy, Warragul and Bunji for a snowshoe guided walk and explore the resort’s trails while learning about other endangered locals, including the Baw Baw Frog and Leadbeater Possum.

Dreaming of a white Christmas? Mt Baw Baw’s Christmas in July event includes Santa appearances, caroling at each lodge and a free Christmas-themed photo booth.

On September 17 the Great Toboggan Race offers the opportunity for all comers to claim the coveted title of National Plastic Toboggan champion.

And for grown up fun, Brew Fest 2022 will include live music, European food and drink specials from a local Gippsland craft brewer.

Mt Baw Baw boasts seven lifts, 25 runs, toboggan park with Magic Carpet lift, and 10km of cross-country ski trails. The resort’s Snow Factory guarantees the beginner lesson areas and toboggan park will always have the white stuff.

Getting there is a cinch, with parking right at the village, and over snow transport available to book for those who want their luggage delivered to their door. If you’d prefer not to drive all the way up to the village, you can catch a transfer from the city or local station or park at the resort entry and catch the shuttle bus service. The resort entry area also offers a chain fitting service.

Book your resort entry online to save 10 per cent at mountbawbaw.com.au. And if you book midweek, enjoy a snowshoe dingo walk from $39 or toboggan for just $15.

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