Looking for that extra punch: A Guide to Hitting the Terrain Parks

Whether you’re just starting out, an intermediate or advanced skier or rider looking to take your skills to the next level, Perisher’s terrain parks offer an incredible playground for you to explore. With a variety of parks designed to cater to different skill levels and styles, there’s something for every skier and rider. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best terrain parks in Perisher and provide tips to make the most of your time on the slopes.

Perisher Resort boasts a total of five terrain parks, each offering unique features and challenges for skiers and riders. Whether you’re into rails, jumps, or creative lines, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to showcase your skills and progress your riding.

Slopestyle Terrain Park

Location: Stuart T-Bar or Village 8 Express, Perisher

Park Level: Advanced

The Slopestyle Terrain Park is designed for more advanced riders looking to test their skills on a variety of features, including large jumps, creative rails set ups and boxes. The park is meticulously maintained and offers a flowy setup perfect for practicing slope style runs. The park maintenance ensures that the features are always in top condition.

Leichhardt Terrain Park

Location: Leichhardt Quad Chair, Perisher

Park Level: Intermediate to advanced

Leichhardt Terrain Park offers a mix of medium-sized jumps, rails, and boxes. It’s a great place to dial in your tricks and work on consistency. It’s a balanced mix of jumps and jibs, with a layout that encourages progression and creativity.

Blue Cow Beginner Terrain Park

Location: Summit Quad Chair, Blue Cow

Park Level: Beginners to Intermediate

While primarily designed for beginners, intermediate riders can still enjoy this park to warm up or try out new tricks on smaller features. It includes small jumps, boxes, and rails. It provides a less intimidating environment to practice new tricks and build confidence before heading to the larger parks.

Piper Terrain Park

Location: Piper T-Bar, Smiggin Hole

Park Level: Ideal for beginners

The Piper Terrain Park is a well-rounded park that caters  for beginners & first timers to riding styles with a smooth flow. It has a variety of features from fun rails, boxes that are perfect for progressing your skills, to medium sized jumps.

Yabby Flats Mini Terrain Park

Location: Perisher Quad Express Chair, Perisher

Park Level: Ideal for beginners

This park is designed for beginners and younger riders, but intermediate riders can have fun here too. It includes small jumps and basic boxes, ideal for warming up or refining basic tricks. Yabby Flat Mini Terrain Park has a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for low-pressure practice sessions.

If you’re a first-timer or a beginner looking to experience the joy of skiing or snowboarding, you’ve come to the right place. Perisher is Australia’s largest ski resort, offering a variety of slopes and facilities that cater to all skill levels, especially those new to the sport. In this blog, we’ll guide you to the safest areas on the slopes for first-timers and beginners.  

Perisher Resort consist of four different resorts, Perisher, Blue Cow, Smiggin and Guthega, each offering slopes suitable for beginners. Guthega being a little more challenging for those beginners. Once you have a little experience and confidence, you’ll be able to adventure across all four resorts. What the different resort have the offer:

Perisher Valley

• Front Valley: This area has a dedicated beginner section with easy slopes and beginner-friendly lifts ranging from the Magic Carpet and T-Bars to the Village 8 Express Chairlift. This gives you a great concept in learning to ride all types of lifts, slopes with big open spaces and is close to amenities, outdoor seating areas and plenty of dining options, making it convenient for breaks.
• Perisher Quad Express: This chair lift isn’t primarily for beginner riders however it does allow you access to certain areas of the mountain where you can enjoy as a beginner. The Quad Express has two stop stations; Mid Station and the very top of the mountain. If you ride the Quad Express to the Mid Station this will bring you to the top of the Happy Valley slopes.
• Happy Valley: They are known for their gentle, wide open slopes with beautiful snow gums lining some of the trails. At the bottom of Happy Valley T-Bar there is an outdoor café to take a break and catch your breath. If you aren’t confident to get back to Front Valley from here, you can jump back on the Perisher Quad Express and enjoy the incredible view as the chair lift takes you to the top of the mountain and back down to Front Valley.

Blue Cow

• Blue Cow is accessible by Skitube, from the Perisher Terminal and is free of charge if you hold a valid lift pass.
• Early Starter: Located near a the Blue Cow Terminal, the Easy Starter is a double chair lift with a slope that is great for those just starting out. It provides a shorter, wide, open space to practice and is easily accessible.
• Easy Rider: This slope is ideal for beginners, offering a much longer but very gentle gradient that allows you to practice your turns and control at a comfortable pace. Easy Rider travels along underneath the Pleasant Valley Quad Chair.  

Smiggin

• Smiggin is accessible by car or bus. There is a free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes and leaves from the Perisher bus stop and travels to and from the Smiggin bus stop.
• Smiggin Beginner Area: Smiggin Holes is known for its beginner-family-friendly environment. The wide open gentle slopes are perfect for learning and there are excellent beginner facilities, including J-Bars and easy-to-use lifts.
• Captain Cook: Another great option at Smiggin Holes. This slope offers a gentle ride and is a favourite among families and beginners.

Additional Tips for First-Timers

Lessons will Help

• Skiing and snowboarding can be challenging, along with learning to ride the lifts. Perisher has many different types of lifts and all are a little different to embark on and disembark off, and can take time in learning the technique as they are different for skiers and snowboarders.

Follow the Rules

• Always follow the ski resort’s safety guidelines and signs. Respect other skiers and snowboarders and stay within your skill level. Ski and ride with care.

Take Breaks

• Don’t be afraid to take regular breaks. Skiing and snowboarding can be tiring, and breaks will help you stay refreshed and prevent fatigue. The mountain has many great places for a hot chocolate experience, so take the pit stop and reenergise.

Have Fun

• Remember, skiing and snowboarding are all about having fun and enjoying the experience. Don’t stress about perfection and take it one step at a time.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, we’re excited to help you prepare for an unforgettable experience at our beautiful alpine resort. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from what to pack, travel tips, lift passes and lessons. Don’t forget to have a read of our other blog “First-Timers and Beginners: Hitting the Slopes”. Let’s get started!

What to Bring

Packing for a snow-filled adventure can be a bit daunting, especially for first-timers. Here’s a checklist to ensure you have everything you need:

Essentials:

• Warm Clothing: Layers are key! Bring thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
• Snow Gear: Don’t forget your waterproof ski/snowboard pants, jackets, gloves, beanie and neck warmer or scarf.
• Ski or Snowboard Equipment: If you don’t your own equipment, don’t worry! You can rent skis, snowboards, boots, poles, helmets, outer gear and pretty much anything you’re missing at Perisher.
• Goggles and Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun and snow glare.
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm: The sun’s rays are stronger at higher altitudes, so protect your skin and lips.
• Comfortable Footwear: Waterproof boots with good grip are essential for walking around the resort.

Travel Tips

Getting to Perisher and The Stables Resort Perisher is part of the adventure! Here are some tips to ensure a smooth journey:

By Car:

• The resort is approximately a 5.5-hour drive from Sydney and a 7.5-hour drive from Melbourne.
• Ensure your vehicle is equipped with snow chains, as they may be required during snowfall (if you have a 4WD, you are exempt from carrying chains)
• NSW National Parks do not allow overnight parking in the resort. You can day park in Perisher, drop your luggage then head to the Ski Tube Terminal at Bullocks Flat which is about a 40 minute drive, pending road conditions.

By Perisher’s Ski-tube:

• Perisher Ski-tube is Australia’s alpine railway and services from Bullocks Flat to Perisher and Blue Cow return, with plenty of free day and overnight parking at Bullocks Flat.
• The Ski-tube is only a short 10 minute journey from Bullocks Flat to Perisher Valley and is the safest and quickest way to get to Perisher.
• The ski-tube operates 7 days a week, however it does have luggage restrictions certain times of the day so be sure to check their timetable before planning your travel. For tickets and timetables click here.
• Our resort staff will collect you from the Perisher Ski Tube Terminal and complete your over-snow journey to The Stables Resort Perisher.

By Public Transport:

• Snowy Mountains Bus Service is available from Cooma to Jindabyne (via Berridale) and Jindabyne). Luggage restrictions apply, for tickets and timetables click here.
• Alternatively, you would need to book a bus service or flight from major cities to get to Cooma, to then connect with the Snowy Mountains Bus Service.
• Cooma Airport is the closest air field to the Snowy Mountains.

Over-snow Transfers:

• Most of the lodges or resorts in Perisher Valley are accessible by walking and/or over-snow vehicles, as the public roads are closed during the winter months.
• We are located 200 metres up hill from the Perisher Centre, however it can be a tough hike in thick fresh snow and challenging with luggage, therefore The Stables Resort Perisher have complementary over-snow services for our guests.

Lift Passes and Lessons

Lift Passes:

• Purchase lift passes online in advance for the best rates click here.
• Options include single-day, multi-day and season passes.
• Lift passes provide access to all lifts and slopes at Perisher Resort, which covers 4 resorts in the one, Perisher; Smiggin; Blue Cow and Guthega.
• You are unable to ski or ride the mountain unless you have a valid lift pass.

Lessons:

• For beginners, we highly recommend booking lessons with Perisher’s ski and snowboard school.
• Group and private lessons are available for all ages and skill levels.
• Lessons are conducted at Perisher, Smiggin and Blue Cow.

Handy Tips for Beginners

Here are some additional tips to ensure you have a fantastic first-time experience on the snow:

1. Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed: Keep your energy levels up with regular snacks and plenty of water.
2. Take Breaks: Skiing and snowboarding can be tiring, so take regular breaks to rest and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
3. Start Slow: Don’t rush to tackle advanced slopes. Take your time to build confidence and skills on the beginner slopes.
4. Follow the Rules: Always follow the ski resort’s safety guidelines and signs. Respect other skiers and snowboarders.
5. Dress Appropriately: Stay warm and dry by wearing appropriate clothing and gear. The weather is unpredictable and can change quickly.

It’s all about having fun, creating long lasting memories and enjoying the experience!

As the warm embrace of summer beacons, The Stables Resort Perisher invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey of summertime fun in the Snowy Mountains. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping adventures or tranquil moments of relaxation, we’ve curated the top five activities to make your summer getaway truly memorable.

Horse Riding Trails

Saddle up and explore the beauty guided by horseback through the Snowy Mountains. The snowy wilderness is a sanctuary for wild brumby and other wildness animals. To traverse across the country side by the rhythm of hoofbeats is an enchanting journey. There are a few different horse riding companies within the area and they will share fascinating insights into local history, flora and fauna. Whether you’re a novice rider or a seasoned equestrian, the well-trained horses and scenic trails promise an unforgettable adventure for all ages. Take a day trip or multi-day trek and stay in the wilderness campsites.

Lakeside Water Sports

Dive into a world of aquatic excitement with our array of lakeside water sports activities. From paddleboarding and kayaking to exhilarating water skiing adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the shimmering cool alpine waters of Lake Jindabyne. Feel the refreshing splash as you glide across the surface, soaking in the sunshine and panoramic views. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, simply unwind on the sandy shores, basking in the tranquillity of nature’s embrace.

Fly Fishing Excursions

Immerse yourself in the timeless art of fly fishing amidst the pristine rivers, lakes and streams in the local area. Jump on a guided tour who will share their wealth of experience and local knowledge or just have a crack on your own. Loose yourself in the rhythm of the cast and the serenity of nature as you embark on a fly fishing adventure. Fly fishing can be done all year round in the surrounding Jindabyne areas, except in the Kosciuszko National Park where fishing is seasonal between the months of October through to the June long weekend.

Hiking Expeditions

With continued upgrading of trails, Kosciuszko National Park has an abundance of trails to discover through the rugged but stunningly beautiful mountains. Discover hidden lakes, abundant wildlife and panoramic views that will take your breath away. Whether you’re seeking a challenging summit ascent or a leisurely nature walk, there is mostly certainly a trail for everyone. NSW Nationals Parks offer trail information free for all to enjoy or take a guided tour and learn historical facts and discover the secrets of the snowy mountains. Be sure to always pack safely, plenty of drinking water, snacks, sunscreen and clothing for all types of weather, as it can change quickly in the mountain ranges.

Mountain Bike Riding

For thrill-seekers, the snowy mountains offer an exhilarating playground for mountain biking adventures. Explore rugged trails, winding paths, and scenic routes that wind through the majestic Kosciuszko National Park. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you conquer challenging terrain and navigate through breath-taking landscapes. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a leisurely ride or an experienced rider seeking an adrenaline-fueled descent, Kosciuszko National Park’s mountain bike trails cater to all skill levels. Mountain biking promises an unforgettable summer experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Let’s be honest, when it comes to warm winter treats, the humble hot chocolate has to be our favourite. Perisher may be vast, but thankfully no matter where you are on the mountain, a brilliant hot chocolate is never far away. With so many options to choose from, let us show you in no particular order, the five best hot chocolates to enjoy on the mountain during your stay at The Stables Resort Perisher.

Brunellis – Perisher Valley

Situated in the Perisher Centre at the bottom of Front Valley, Brunellis is a Perisher institution and home to some of the best hot chocolates, coffee and small bites in the valley. Brunellis is a cosy hideaway with plenty of comfortable seating away from the bustle of the rest of the Perisher Centre. As it is just down the hill from The Stables Resort Perisher and 30 seconds from the Village 8 Chairlift, there is no better place to load up on hot chocolate before a big day on the hill. Our recommendation is to order a deluxe hot chocolate with cream and extra marshmallows, you won’t regret it.

Mid Station – Perisher Valley

Halfway up the Perisher Quad Express chairlift and at the top of Happy Valley is Mid Station. Home to the “world-famous Hot Chocolate Happy Hour/s” hot chocolates at Mid Station are discounted before 10:30 am. Which makes it the perfect spot to rest the legs after morning laps of Happy Valley and Centre Valley. Given its convenient location on the mountain, Mid Station is also a great lunch option with a large food and drinks menu that caters to most guests.

Pretty Valley Kiosk – Pretty Valley

Home to perhaps the most deluxe hot chocolates in the Snowy Mountains, Pretty Valley Kiosk is an absolute must for all hot chocolate lovers staying at The Stables Resort Perisher. Situated at the bottom of the sun-drenched Pretty Valley Double Chair, Pretty Valley Kiosk brings a family-friendly party vibe to the mountain, with outdoor seating and classic tunes from the likes of ABBA, Kylie, Bon Jovi and more on constant rotation. They even have their own Spotify playlist, which you can listen to here. Pretty Valley hot chocolates are known for their decadence, served with a dose of whipped cream, marshmallows and even flakes and sprinkles if you’d like. Just watch out for the local Rosellas, they’ll have a go at your hot chocolate if they get the chance! If we could only have one hot chocolate on the mountain, this would be it.

Cowpuccino Café – Blue Cow

Who said all hot chocolates were in Perisher Valley!? Conveniently located at station level in the Blue Cow Skitube building, Cowpuccino is a cosy hideaway with great views through the snow gums towards Mt Blue Cow and the Terminal Quad Chairlift. Another great option for a quick hot chocolate break to warm up between runs or as a start-of-day treat. An extra bonus for Epic Pass holders, up to a 15% discount on all food and beverages at Cowpuccino.

Basecamp Cafe – Guthega

Last, but certainly not least, is Basecamp Café. Home to one of the best views in the resort and the best hot chocolate in Guthega. Basecamp Café is hidden away in the Guthega Centre, below the Car Park Double Chairlift. The café balcony boasts superb views over the Guthega Dam towards Tate East Ridge and the NSW Main Range. The views alone make the long ski from The Stables Resort Perisher worth it. However, the delicious hot chocolate seals the deal, making Basecamp Café a must-do pitstop for our guests when riding Guthega.

1. Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk

Perisher Valley is not only a haven for winter sports enthusiasts but also a paradise for hikers eager to explore its stunning alpine landscapes. As the sun glistens and the valleys burst into bloom, The Stables Resort Perisher invites you to lace up for adventure and discover the best hikes this breath-taking snowy mountains region has to offer.

No visit to Perisher Valley is complete without conquering the iconic Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk. As the highest peak in Australia, reaching the summit is an unforgettable experience. The trail, which begins near Charlotte Pass, winds its way through alpine meadows and rugged terrain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. With The Stables Resort Perisher as your starting point, set out on this epic journey and be rewarded with breath-taking vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.

2. Porcupine Rocks

For those seeking a moderate hike with stunning views, the Porcupine Rocks trail is a must-try. Departing from Perisher Valley, this scenic route takes you through colourful forests and mountain grasslands before reaching the iconic Porcupine Rocks. From the summit, hikers are treated to sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys—a perfect spot for a picnic or simply to soak in the beauty of nature.

3. Charlotte Pass to Seaman’s Hut

Step back in time as you hike from Charlotte Pass to Seaman’s Hut, one of the oldest huts in the Snowy Mountains. This historic trail offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, with the opportunity to spot native flora and fauna along the way. After a day of exploration, return to The Stables Resort Perisher and unwind with spacious and luxurious accommodation.

4. Charlotte Pass to Blue Lake Lookout

Embark on a journey to discover the mesmerising Blue Lake, nestled amidst the rugged terrain of the Snowy Mountains. This moderate hike begins in Charlotte Pass and meanders through alpine landscapes adorned with vibrant wildflowers. As you approach the lake, you’ll be captivated by its striking blue hue—a result of sunlight reflecting off the mineral-rich waters. With The Stables Resort Perisher as your basecamp, set out to explore this hidden gem and immerse yourself in its serene beauty.

5. Perisher Valley to Guthega

Experience the beauty of the snowy rivers as you hike from Perisher Valley to Guthega. This easy scenic trail follows the running waters, offering glimpses of cascades and tranquil pools, along the track to Guthega Dam. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, including an array of birdlife, wallabies and wombats, as you traverse along the rivers edge and beneath the foothills of the gorgeous mountains. The Stables Resort Perisher is your starting point as you embark on this unforgettable journey and reconnect with the wonders of nature.

With its breath-taking alpine landscapes and diverse range of trails, Perisher Valley is a paradise for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking a challenging ascent to a majestic peak or a leisurely stroll through picturesque landscapes, there’s a hike waiting to be explored. So lace up for adventure with The Stables Resort Perisher as your comfortable base and embark on an unforgettable journey.