Your Guide to Blue Cow, Perisher's Most Diverse Terrain

About Blue Cow

Blue Cow is one of four resort areas which make up Perisher Ski Resort. Known and loved by Perisher locals for its breathtaking views of the Kosciuszko Main Range and its expansive and diverse terrain,

Behind the name: In 1840, local grazier James Spencer secured the lease for the high country on the Main Range. It's said that he bred imported black English Shorthorns with white Shorthorns, producing blue roan-coated offspring. Each year, after the thaw, one particular crossbred cow would vanish, only to be spotted grazing on the mountain before winter returned—thus inspiring the name Blue Cow.

Ski & Snowboard Terrain at Blue Cow

One of Blue Cow's best drawcards is its diverse terrain, catering to all ability levels. From beginner flats to black diamond descents, Blue Cow has something for every kind of skier and boarder!

Beginners can enjoy wide, gentle slopes such as Pleasant Valley, perfect for honing technique with a stunning backdrop. Intermediate skiers and snowboarders thrive on the diverse groomers, like Roller Coaster and Zali’s, which offer thrilling yet manageable descents. Advanced riders, meanwhile, can push their limits on the steeper terrain found at The Ridge and Kamikaze, where natural features and ungroomed sections provide a true test of skill.

Blue Cow also boasts great off-piste and tree skiing opportunities, especially after fresh snowfall. Powder days at Blue Cow are something else, where riders can relish in some of the best turns in Australia.

Cold Shoulder - A Nod to the Past

Long before Perisher became a winter playground, cattle once roamed its alpine pastures. When the sun hit their backs, one side of their bodies would warm up while the shaded side remained cold, giving rise to the term 'cold shoulder'.

Nowadays a 'cold shoulder' in Blue Cow refers to the intermediate run accessible off Brumby T-Bar.

Zali's – A Tribute to the Legend

Zali’s is one of Blue Cow’s more well-known runs, named in honour of Zali Steggall who won Australia’s first individual Winter Olympic medal.

Originally called Stampede, the run was renamed to celebrate Zali’s incredible achievement. It’s a double blue run that flows off the Summit Quad Chair, offering long, sweeping turns all the way back to the base.

Kamikaze – Not for the Faint-Hearted

A little of the way down Zali’s, you’ll find the entrance to Kamikaze, a run reserved for those who like their riding steep and thrilling. As one of Blue Cow’s expert trails, it lives up to its name, demanding confidence and skill to navigate its sharp drops and technical terrain.

Behind the name: Legend has it that this run got its name from a daring skier in the 1960s, who took it on with nothing but a waxed coracle - a small, round boat traditionally made from wombat hide stretched over a wooden frame. It was a sight to behold, and from then on, the name Kamikaze stuck!

Copperhead Road – A Scenic Trip

For those making their way back from Blue Cow to Perisher Valley, Copperhead Road is the perfect route. This scenic trail starts at the top of Pleasant Valley Chair and winds down to the bottom of the Pretty Valley Express. Copperhead Road also gives you the option to continue on to Smiggin Holes via Piper T-Bar, or an alternate route to Front Valley via Telemark T-Bar.

Behind the name: It comes from a summer encounter when Perisher’s General Manager of Operations was inspecting the trail’s construction. As he walked through the area, he nearly stepped on a highly venomous Copperhead snake that had slithered between his feet. That moment left a lasting impression, and ever since, the trail has been known as Copperhead Road.

Ski & Snowboard Lessons in Blue Cow

One of the key reasons Blue Cow is such a great place for lessons is its varied terrain and reliable snow conditions. Wide-open groomers provide the perfect space to practice turns and control, while more advanced areas give you the chance to explore steeper runs and off-piste riding as your skills progress.

Perisher Snowsports School offers first timer ski and snowboard packages in Blue Cow on Saturdays and Sundays starting from late-June. The Blue Cow SnowStart package is a great option for first-time skiers and snowboarders planning a weekend trip to Perisher. The all-inclusive package includes ski and snowboard gear rentals, lift access, and a lesson with a qualified instructor.

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Food & Beverage Options in Blue Cow

Blue Cow offers a variety of food and beverage options with stunning views of Kosciuszko Main Range. Whether you're after a hearty meal, a quick snack, or a drink to toast the day, Blue Cow is the perfect place to stop and refuel during a big day of riding.

Top tip: Epic Australia Pass holders enjoy up to 15% off food and drinks at Perisher-owned outlets, including at Blue Cow!

Subarista Cafe

Lower Level, Blue Cow Skitube Terminal

Previously Cowpuccino, Subarista Cafe serves up some of the best hot chocolates on the hill. Drop by to warm up with a hot drink and a mid-morning treat and while you're at it, build your dream Subaru on the interactive touchscreen!

Blue Cow Bistro

Upper Level, Blue Cow Skitube Terminal

Enjoy a diverse, self-serve menu featuring hot meals, fresh snacks, and barista-made coffee. With plenty of seating and family-friendly options, it's the perfect spot to relax between runs.

Top Spot Bar

Upper Level, Blue Cow Skitube Terminal

Top Spot Bar serves up cold beers, cocktails, and mountain vibes. Kick back and soak in the incredible views with a drink in hand.

The BBQ

Outdoor Deck, Blue Cow Skitube Terminal

Nothing beats grilled favourites with a view! Located on the deck and perfect for bluebird days, The BBQ serves up delicious bites fresh off the grill, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal in the fresh mountain air.

Getting to Blue Cow

Conveniently connected to Perisher Valley via Skitube, accessing Blue Cow as a first timer or early beginner is easy. Simply jump transfer trains at Perisher Valley Skitube Terminal for the 10-minute journey to Blue Cow Skitube Terminal.

When conditions permit, more confident riders can enjoy easy access between Perisher and Blue Cow via groomed ski and snowboard trails. Download the Perisher trail map to plot the best route based on conditions and your ability.

Ready to Discover Blue Cow?

Whether you're testing your limits on Kamikaze, meandering down Pleasant Valley, or enjoying the ride on Rollercoaster, Blue Cow is packed with adventure. Each run has its own story, adding to the magic of Perisher - make sure to share them with your friends and family!

Coffee at Blue Cow at Perisher Ski Resort

Snowboarder at Blue Cow Bistro in Perisher