
Where does Snowy Mountains Highway start and end?
Australia, oceania
332 km
1,498 m
hard
Year-round
Alright adventure seekers, buckle up for the Snowy Mountains Highway! This incredible high-altitude drive slices right through the heart of New South Wales' alpine wonderland.
Starting near Tumut, where it peels off from the Hume Highway (M31), this fully paved beauty snakes its way south for 332km (206 miles) before finally linking up with the Princess Highway (A1) near Bega. Nestled in the northern reaches of Kosciuszko National Park, this road is a must-do.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Think breathtaking alpine scenery, a ribbon of road carved into the mountains, and views that will leave you speechless. Be warned, though, this isn't a boring cruise. Expect plenty of sharp curves, blind corners, and hairpin turns to keep you on your toes.
The road climbs to a lofty 1,498m (4,914ft) above sea level, offering incredible panoramic vistas. Good news: it's open year-round! However, the higher elevations are prone to snowfall during winter, so stay vigilant about the weather forecast – conditions can change in a heartbeat.
Speaking of winter, things can get extreme. Be prepared for sudden shifts in road and weather conditions typical of alpine environments, and give those snow plows a *wide* berth when you encounter them. Get ready for an unforgettable Aussie road trip!
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 332 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,498 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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