Lake Mountain, a popular alpine resort in Australia’s southeastern region, is located about 120 km northeast of Melbourne. It is also only 33 km from Marysville. At an altitude of 1,433 metres, this is a destination that offers a variety of outdoor activities all year round in a beautiful alpine setting. Lake Mountain is known as a winter wonderland but also offers a variety of outdoor activities during the summer months. It’s a great getaway for families, nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Lake Mountain History
Lake Mountain’s origins are rooted in the Victorian Alps development as a recreation region. The original inhabitants were indigenous people, such as the Wurundjeri, and Taungurung. The land was used for spiritual, hunting and gathering purposes.
In the 19th century, Europeans began to settle in the area surrounding Lake Mountain. The Lake Mountain Alpine Resort was established in 1970, but it wasn’t until 1950s and 60s that the area began to be a popular winter sport and tourism destination. The resort has grown over the years and is now one of Victoria’s most popular and accessible snow destinations.
Lake Mountain Activities
Lake Mountain offers a variety of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. There are many things to do and explore, whether you want to indulge in snow sports during winter or enjoy nature in the warmer months.
1. Snow Sports in Winter
Lake Mountain’s winter sport is what makes it Victoria’s most accessible and popular snow destination. The resort has a wide range of activities to suit all skill levels and ages.
- Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Lake Mountain is the perfect place for cross-country skiers. It’s a great place to practice this tranquil and scenic winter activity. There are over 35 kilometres of groomed trails. The resort has a variety of trails for beginners to experts. Equipment rental is also available.
- Snow play: Families who have young children will enjoy the snow-play zones, where they can create snowmen, participate in snowball battles or just enjoy the snow. Tobogganing is available for everyone at the resort, which makes it a great place for family fun.
- Skiing & Snowboarding While Lake Mountain is more famous for cross-country skiers, it offers downhill skiing as well as snowboarding under the right conditions. There are a few downhill slopes available for beginners and intermediates. The resort also has snowmaking equipment to keep the snow fresh and powdery all winter long.
- Guided Snowshoeing Tours are available for those who are new to the sport or want to explore more. Visitors can learn about the environment and history of the region, as well as experience some of the hidden gems in the mountains.
2. Scenic Views & Nature Walks
Lake Mountain becomes a paradise for nature lovers, mountain bikers and hikers when the snow melts. The area is famous for its beautiful alpine landscapes, lush forests and wildflowers.
- Walking and Hiking Trails The area offers a variety of hiking tracks to suit different skill levels. Popular trails include:
- The Lake Mountain Circuit is a relatively easy 3.2-kilometre walk that offers panoramic views from the surrounding mountains.
- **The Shannon’s Falls Track: A scenic, short walk that leads to a beautiful waterfall.
- Wildflower Observation During spring and summer, Lake Mountain is alive with wildflowers. This includes the iconic Alpine Orchids. This region is ideal for botanical lovers, as it offers a chance to view some of Australia’s most rare and colourful flowers.
- Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting: The alpine forest is home to many species of birds, such as lyrebirds and kangaroos. Birdwatching is a popular activity, especially early in the mornings and late afternoons.
3. Mountain Biking
Lake Mountain offers mountain bike trails for all levels of experience. The resort offers a series of mountain bike trails that wind through stunning alpine scenery and provide breathtaking views.
- Bike Rental: Mountain bike rentals are available at the resort. Trails range from easy for beginners to challenging downhill. Lake Mountain Bike Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience a thrilling ride.
4. Scenic drives and photography
Lake Mountain has several scenic drives that offer spectacular views of the valleys, mountains and forests surrounding the area. Drivers love the road up to Lake Mountain’s summit, which offers many opportunities for taking photos, stopping and enjoying the scenery.
- Photographie: Lake Mountain’s changing seasons and diverse landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise. You can capture the snowy landscape during winter, or the meadows filled with wildflowers during summer.
5. Eco and Nature Tours
There are many opportunities to learn more about the local environment, conservation efforts and nature through eco-tours. These tours cover topics like local geology and native flora, fauna, and conservation efforts. Winter and summer tours are available, allowing you to get a closer connection with the natural beauty of the area.
6. Visit Marysville and the Surrounding Areas
Marysville is a charming town located just a short distance from Lake Mountain. It offers a variety of attractions and activities. Marysville is home to charming cafes, boutiques and parks. Steavenson Falls, Victoria’s tallest waterfall, is one of these. This town also has a variety of art galleries, historic sites and walking tracks. It is a great addition to any Lake Mountain trip.
Accommodation at Lake Mountain
Lake Mountain offers a variety of accommodation options. It is smaller than some of Victoria’s larger alpine regions but still has many choices. The majority of visitors choose to stay in nearby towns Marysville Buxton and Taggerty. These offer a greater selection of accommodation options, ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to holiday parks, and motels.
- Lake Mountain Alpine Resort offers basic facilities, such as cabins that are self-contained, and areas for camping. This allows visitors to be close to the mountain and enjoy snow sports, hiking and other activities.
- Marysville Accommodation Located just 30 minutes from Lake Mountain in Marysville, you can choose between boutique hotels, motels and cabins. The Vibe Marysville and Marysville Caravan Holiday Park are two popular choices.
- Buxton and Taggerty are small towns nearby that offer accommodation for those who prefer a more relaxing and quieter stay.
Facilities and Services
Lake Mountain offers essential services to visitors including:
- Dining The resort has a cafe and restaurant where you can enjoy hot meals, drinks, and snacks. Picnic areas are available where guests can enjoy their food in the natural environment.
- Rental Services For those who do not have their own ski equipment or mountain bikes, the resort provides ski gear rental, including cross-country skiing, snowshoes and toboggans, as well as mountain biking rental.
- Information for Visitors The resort offers a Centre de Visite, where visitors can get information on activities, local attractions and trail maps.
Conclusion
Lake Mountain offers an array of outdoor activities and winter sports. It is also a beautiful destination all year round. Lake Mountain is a great destination for anyone who wants to enjoy the winter sleet or the wildflowers of summer. The combination of its accessibility from Melbourne and the stunning scenery, along with a variety of activities makes it a destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Lake Mountain offers a variety of activities, whether you are looking for an adventure in the snow during winter or a peaceful hike through meadows filled with wildflowers.
