Traveling To The Mountain
Traveling To The Mountain
If driving your own car be aware that you must carry chains at all times during the official snow season even if the roads are reportedly clear.
Resort entry fees are applicable for Mt Htoham and Falls Creek. Entry to Mt Buffalo is free. If you choose not to drive your own vehicle, a bus runs most days to Hotham from Bright, Harrietville and Porepunkah. There is also a bus from Bright to Falls Creek and also in 2010 a bus that connects Bright to Omeo several days a week. Bookings should be made prior to travel. There are also tour operators that run snow transfers and snow tours. Contact the Alpine Visitor Information Centre in Bright for further details on these services.
SNOW DRIVING & CHAINS
All roads to the three resorts are sealed all the way. There are safe areas to fit your chains if required. You must carry chains during the snow season (Queens Birthday weekend to October unless otherwise extended). Hefty fines apply to those who don’t have them. The ski shops hire chains as do the service stations. All will assist you in demonstrating how to fit your chains to your vehicle.
Modern chains are designed to be user friendly. Fit your chains to your vehicle when you are directed by mountain staff or when you see a sign which says “Fit Chains Here”.
If travelling over the Great Alpine Road one way only you can hire or drop off chains for a one way trip at Hoys Ski Hire in Harrietville and Omeo BP Station for a cost of approx. $30.
When fitted, drive slowly. Remove chains once it is safe to do so. Driving on asphalt leads to tyre and suspension wear not to mention chain wear! Check that your vehicle has antifreeze in the radiator. If you use diesel, summer grade diesel will gel in the lines and fuel tank in cold weather. Is your fuel Alpine Grade?
