In summer, the lake becomes the centrepiece for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and fishing, while nearby trails attract hikers and mountain bike enthusiasts looking to explore Kosciuszko National Park.
In winter, the town comes alive as the gateway to Thredbo and Perisher ski resorts, offering easy access to skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and scenic snow-filled landscapes.
The town itself has evolved into a lively base for food, wine, and boutique shopping with lakeside dining, craft breweries, and coffee spots. Perfect for families, couples, and groups, Jindabyne offers easy access to both mountain adventure and laid-back leisure, all within five hours of Sydney or two hours of Canberra.
Outdoor adventures
- Kosciuszko National Park: Explore hiking trails like the Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk, which is Australia’s highest peak.
- Lake Jindabyne: Enjoy activities like kayaking, sailing, fishing, wakeboarding, and swimming on the lake.
- Hiking and walking: Take the Lake Foreshore Path for a flat, scenic walk, or explore trails like the Geehi Huts Walking Track and Bullocks Walking Track.
- Mountain Biking: Ride world-class trails in the Thredbo Valley, or at Jindabyne’s local centre Bungarra Alpine Centre. Local trails like Hatchery Bay Trail and Yabby Track for casual rides, and the Tyrolean and Mill Creek trails for a more technical experience.
- Horse riding: Go on a trek through the scenic Snowy Mountains with operators like Thredbo Valley Horse Riding.
- Scenic drives: Take a drive to destinations like Charlotte Pass or Guthega, or explore the Jindabyne to Khancoban route.
Winter activities
- Skiing and snowboarding: Visit nearby ski resorts like Thredbo, Perisher, or Charlotte Pass – all a 30-minute drive from Jindabyne.
Local attractions and culture
- The Big Chairlift: Australia’s most recent “big” thing! Take a photo and relax at this large, iconic chairlift installation by the lake.
- Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre: Learn about the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme.
- Distilleries and breweries: Sample schnapps at Wildbrumby Distillery or craft beers at Jindabyne Brewing.
- Local galleries and shops: Browse local art at the Jindabyne Art Gallery Pop Up Exhibition or find unique items in town at Nuggets Crossing.
- Man from Snowy River Museum: Explore the history and stories of the Snowy Mountains.
- Lake Light Sculpture: See the illuminated sculptures along the lake foreshore Easter Long Weekend.