Melbourne: Lake Mountain Snow Guided Tour

A Snow Day Near Melbourne: Lake Mountain Guided Tour

If you’re craving a winter escape but don’t want to journey all the way to the Alps or the southern snowfields, the Lake Mountain Snow Guided Tour offers a surprisingly charming and family-friendly option just 1.5 hours from Melbourne. For a modest price of around $104 per person, this 9.5-hour adventure takes you from the bustling city to snow-capped views, allowing you to enjoy 3 hours of snow fun amid picturesque chalets, cross-country ski tracks, and toboggan fields.

What makes this trip particularly appealing is the chance to combine snow activities with natural beauty and local treats. We love that your day includes a chance to build snowmen, try cross-country skiing (less intimidating than downhill), and hire a toboggan—all perfect for families or first-time snow enthusiasts. Plus, the visit to Steavenson Falls offers a stunning moment of tranquility with its cascading 122 meters of water, and a stop at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie ensures your sweet tooth is well taken care of.

One consideration is that snow clothing and equipment hire at the resort are not included, so you’ll need to bring your own gear or plan to rent on-site. Also, as with many guided tours, the pace is structured, so if you’re seeking total independence or a freeform day, this might feel a bit organized for your liking.

This tour is ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone short on time but eager to experience a winter wonderland close to Melbourne. If you love the idea of combining natural scenery with light adventure and a bit of indulgence, this outing is worth considering.

Key Points

• Close to Melbourne: Just 1.5 hours away, making it perfect for a day trip.
• Three hours of snow play: Enough time for fun activities like snowman building, sledging, and cross-country skiing.
• Natural beauty: Includes a walk to Steavenson Falls, one of Victoria’s tallest waterfalls.
• Chocolate indulgence: Ends with a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie for free samples and a glimpse into the chocolatiers’ craft.
• All-inclusive transportation: Bus transfer, resort entry, and a friendly local guide are included for ease.
• Additional costs: Snow clothing and equipment hire are not included and need separate arrangements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour begins early at the Old Melbourne Gaol, a location that’s both historically significant and conveniently central. From there, you’ll board a comfortable bus, ideal for relaxing as you leave the city behind. The drive offers breathtaking views as you ascend toward Lake Mountain, with your guide sharing insights into the local landscape, making the journey part of the adventure.

The bus ride itself is often highlighted in reviews—passengers appreciate the curated playlist and friendly commentary that set a cheerful tone for the day. The scenic route is a gentle reminder of Victoria’s diverse beauty, from urban sprawl to mountain vistas.

Snow Day at Lake Mountain

Once you arrive at Lake Mountain, a family-friendly haven with cozy chalets and miles of cross-country ski tracks, the real fun begins. For about three hours, you can enjoy a variety of snow activities. The inclusive resort entry fee grants access to the snowfields, but you’ll want to consider renting gear if you don’t have your own.

Snow play options are plentiful—build a snowman, have a snowball fight, or simply revel in the fresh, crisp air. For the more adventurous, cross-country ski lessons are available, although some reviewers note that the hire of jackets, pants, and toboggans are extras.

A highlight is the chance to hire a toboggan, which is often the favorite activity for kids and adults alike. The sledding slopes are designed to be safe and fun, making it an ideal introduction to snow sports for beginners. Several travelers mention how much their children loved the time here—”everybody had fun,” one reviewer from the Philippines said, emphasizing how accessible and enjoyable the experience was for first-timers.

Nature Walk to Steavenson Falls

In the afternoon, the tour continues with a nature walk to Steavenson Falls. This waterfall is one of Victoria’s tallest, with a cascade dropping 122 meters across five tiers. The walk along the river to the base of the falls offers a peaceful contrast to the snow day, with lush greenery and the soothing sound of flowing water.

Travelers describe the falls as “spectacular” and “majestic,” making it a must-see for nature lovers or those seeking a tranquil moment amid their busy day. The walk is gentle but may not be suitable for those with mobility issues—this is worth considering if you or your group need accessible options.

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Sweet Ending at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie

The tour concludes with a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice-creamery. Here, you can watch chocolatiers craft exquisite treats, sample free chocolates, and savor some of the best ice creams in the region. The reviews frequently mention this as a “delightful surprise” and a perfect way to end the day on a high note.

Many travelers appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to indulge in high-quality chocolates. It’s a great chance to pick up some souvenirs or simply enjoy a sweet treat while soaking in the scenic vineyard views.

Practical Details & What to Know

The entire day is managed smoothly, with live English-speaking guides providing commentary and coordinating logistics. The tour supports wheelchair accessibility, although the walk to the waterfalls may require some mobility considerations.

Although the price covers transportation, resort entry, and guided support, you will need to arrange your own snow clothing and equipment if you don’t already have them. The tour operators do offer equipment hire at the mountain, but this is an added expense.

The pickup time at 8 AM ensures you maximize your day, but it also means you’ll want to be prepared for an early start. The return to Melbourne is usually in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to rest or plan your evening.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Joe our driver was fantastic. Shared history of places along the way, made the day fun with jokes and music.” This personal touch helps transform a straightforward day trip into a memorable experience.

Others mention the spectacular scenery—”the views as you drive up are spectacular,” and the waterfalls are described as “majestic” and “breathtaking.” The combination of natural beauty and local charm appears to strike the right chord with most travelers.

The chocolate stop gets glowing reviews, too, with guests noting how “the chocolaterie was an absolute hit.” That little sweet indulgence at the end seems to leave everyone smiling, rounding out a well-rounded day.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re visiting Melbourne and want a quick escape into snowy scenery, this tour offers a surprisingly complete experience. It’s especially suited for families with kids or first-time snow visitors who want a safe, guided introduction to snow activities. For those who love natural waterfalls and local treats, the stops at Steavenson Falls and the Chocolaterie add extra layers of enjoyment.

It’s also a smart choice if you prefer organized transport and guided commentary, freeing you from planning logistics or navigating unfamiliar roads. However, if you’re looking for total independence or want to bring your own gear without extra hire costs, you might want to prepare accordingly.

The tour balances value and experience, offering a taste of winter, nature, and local delights—all within a manageable day trip from Melbourne.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews highlight how kids enjoyed snow activities like sledging and building snowmen. The three hours of snow play are enough for children to have fun without feeling rushed.

Do I need to bring my own snow gear?
Snow clothing and equipment hire are not included, so it’s best to bring your own or plan to rent gear at the mountain. The tour does offer options to hire jackets, pants, toboggans, and ski lessons at additional costs.

How long is the drive from Melbourne?
The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, making it a convenient day trip without wasting time on long travel. The drive offers scenic views worth enjoying.

What’s included in the price?
The $104 fee covers transportation by bus, resort entry, and a knowledgeable tour guide. You also get complimentary chocolate samples at the Chocolaterie.

Are there any mobility limitations?
The tour is wheelchair accessible; however, the walk to Steavenson Falls may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments. It’s advisable to check with the operator if you have specific needs.

Can I do this tour if I don’t want to ski or sled?
Absolutely. The main activities are snow play, which can include snowman building and snowball fights, but you are free to relax and enjoy the scenery or take photos.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While snow can vary, the tour is best enjoyed during the winter months when snow conditions are optimal. Check availability and snow reports before booking.

Is the tour suitable for seniors or people with health issues?
It can be, provided mobility isn’t a concern. The scenic stops, gentle walks, and guided nature walks make it accessible for most. Always inform the operator of any special requirements.

Final Thoughts

The Lake Mountain Snow Guided Tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Victoria’s winter beauty without the hassle of heading to the more distant snowfields. Its combination of snow activities, natural scenery, and local treats makes it a well-rounded day trip for a variety of travelers.

We found the guides to be friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience with local insights and a cheerful atmosphere. The stops at Steavenson Falls and the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie add a peaceful and indulgent touch to an already memorable day.

For families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a taste of snowy landscapes close to Melbourne, this tour provides solid value, smooth logistics, and enough fun to satisfy. Just remember to bring your warm clothes, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories—and maybe a few chocolates—to share.

In summary, this tour is best suited for those seeking an easy, guided day trip that combines nature, snow, and indulgence. It’s perfect for a quick getaway during winter or a sunny day when you want a change of scenery. The carefully curated stops and friendly guides help make it a memorable, worthwhile experience for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: