Getting Here
How to get to Mount Hotham.
Mount Hotham sits at 1,754 metres in the Victorian Alps. The closest snow to Melbourne and Sydney by air, with multiple ways to arrive — by road from Melbourne or Albury, by air to nearby airports, or direct by helicopter.
4.5h
Drive from Melbourne
Via the Great Alpine Road. Wheel chains required from the Mount Hotham chain bay during winter — fit them before the climb.
2h
Drive from Albury Airport
The shortest drive to the snow. Daily flights to Albury from Sydney and Brisbane. Hire cars and shuttle services available at the airport.
50m
By helicopter
Direct from Melbourne to Mount Hotham Airport. The most spectacular way to arrive at the mountain.
Where to find Zirky's.
Getting to Mount Hotham
Common questions about getting to Mount Hotham
How far is Mount Hotham from Melbourne?
Mount Hotham is around 4.5 hours by car from Melbourne via the Great Alpine Road — about 365 km. Allow extra time in winter for chain fitting and snowy conditions.
Do I need snow chains to drive to Mount Hotham?
Yes — wheel chains are required by law in winter for all 2WD vehicles travelling above the chain-fitting bay on the Mount Hotham approach. Fit chains before the climb. AWD and 4WD vehicles must carry chains and fit them when directed.
What is the closest airport to Mount Hotham?
Albury Airport is the closest commercial airport, around 2 hours by car. Daily flights from Sydney and Brisbane. Mount Hotham Airport itself accepts charter flights and helicopter services from Melbourne.
Can I fly directly to Mount Hotham?
Yes — by helicopter or charter flight. Helicopter services run from Melbourne to Mount Hotham Airport in around 50 minutes, the most direct route to the snow.
How long does it take to drive from Sydney to Mount Hotham?
Around 8 hours by car from Sydney via Albury. Most Sydney visitors fly into Albury (1.5h flight) and drive the final 2 hours.
Is Zirky's ski-in ski-out at Mount Hotham?
Yes. Zirky's is true ski-in ski-out — every chalet room and apartment has direct snow access from the door. The lifts, restaurant, ski hire and boutique are all in the same building.
When does the Mount Hotham snow season start and end?
The Mount Hotham winter season traditionally runs from the Queen's Birthday long weekend in June through to early October, depending on snowfall. Check the resort's official lift schedule for the current season dates.