New to Perisher? A Go-To Guide For First Timers

There’s so much to look forward to on a trip to Perisher Ski Resort, and plenty to prepare for.

From booking accommodation and getting to the Resort, to finding the best gear and hitting the slopes, we recommend planning well in advance to ensure you have the Experience of a Lifetime at Perisher.

Luckily, we’ve got you covered with a range of resources to help you plan your trip to Perisher.

Planning Your Trip to Perisher

Step 1: Choose the Best Time to Visit

Perisher Ski Resort is open during winter, usually from June to October long weekends and depending on snow coverage and conditions.

The best time to visit Perisher depends on the experience you’re looking for. Whether you're a first timer, an early beginner, visiting with children, or heading out with friends, we have some recommendations to help you make the most of your trip. 

Early Season & Spring

Early June and from September through to October are ideal for first timers, early beginners, and families with young children. These months are outside of popular school holiday and August periods and typically offer milder conditions.

Spring (September to October) is an excellent time for first timers and beginners to visit Perisher in particular. With milder temperatures, softer snow, and fewer crowds, it's the perfect opportunity to learn the basics or enjoy a more laid-back ski holiday. The longer days and sunny weather make for an enjoyable experience both on and off the slopes.

You’ll also find great deals on lift tickets, accommodation, lessons and more during these months, especially if you book in advance.

If you have a friend or family member with an Epic Australia Pass, September and October usually offer the deepest ‘Bring a Mate’ discounts, saving you up to 50% off the total price of single day lift tickets.

July & August

Perisher's season is really set into motion with the start of the NSW School Holidays in late June to early July, marking the beginning of 'peak season'.

Depending on snow coverage and conditions, all four resort areas are usually open by early to mid-July, offering a wide variety of trails for all skill levels, and expanding the availability of intermediate and advanced terrain. 

Perisher is alive with activity during July and August, with plenty to do both on and off the slopes. Whether it's free live music on the hill, ski and snowboard race and park events, headline gigs down at The Station, or demo days from your favourite brands, there's always something happening on the hill throughout July and August.

Guests keen to visit Perisher during July and August should keep in mind that this is the most popular time of the season, with the resort particularly bustling during school holidays and on weekends. We strongly recommend that you plan ahead and familiarise yourself with our Peak Snow Days information if planning to visit during this period. 

Step 2: Book Your Accommodation

There are a range of accommodation options to choose from in Jindabyne and surrounds, as well as on-snow in Perisher Valley. Choose from ski-in, ski-out lodges to camp sites, motels, hotels and self-contained apartments. 

The Station in Jindabyne offers both motel and apartment-style accommodation just minutes away from town. Or, if you’re after a more premium, on-snow experience, Perisher Valley Hotel is well-known as having one of the best ski-in, ski-out locations, located less than 100 metres away from the Village Eight Express and right in the heart of the action. 

We strongly recommend booking your accommodation in advance to take advantage of early-bird pricing and to ensure you don't miss out, especially during peak periods.

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Step 3: Secure Your Pass or Lift Ticket

Perisher offers a variety of lift access options to suit your needs. Whether you're after a single day lift ticket, a night skiing ticket, or season-long access, there are a few different options available to you.

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Step 4: Book Your Ski or Snowboard Lessons

Perisher Snowsports School offers ski and snowboard lessons for all levels. Whether you're a first-timer who needs to learn the basics or an advanced skier or rider who wants to refine technique, Perisher has a lesson suited to you. 

As ski and snowboard lessons at Perisher sell out quickly, we recommend booking in advance to ensure you don't miss out on your preferred date, time, and location. 

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Step 5: Book Your Ski & Snowboard Gear Rentals 

If you're a first time skier or snowboarder, there's a good chance you won't have all the gear you need at home. That's where Perisher Sports comes in! Hiring your ski and snowboard gear through Perisher Sports is a smart choice for first timer and beginner skiers and snowboarders for a stress-free and enjoyable experience on the slopes. 

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