posted on July 13, 2024
Ready to explore Falls Creek, Victoria’s largest alpine resort? The journey from Bright to Falls Creek Resort might be short, but it’s well worth the drive.
In the colder months, expect a winter wonderland with prime slopes for skiing or snowboarding (from challenging back-country routes to gentle toboggan runs for the kids). In summer, Falls Creek is the perfect spot for epic mountain bike riding tracks, hiking opportunities and wildflowers in full bloom.
With multiple ways to travel from Bright to Falls Creek, we’ve rounded up your complete guide to travelling through High Country Victoria and how to maximise your trip.
An overview: The basics of visiting Falls Creek and high country Victoria
- Drive time and distance from Bright to Falls Creek: 1 hours 15 minutes (60 km)
- Drive time and distance from Melbourne to Falls Creek: 4 hours 40 minutes (386 km) via National Highway M31.
- Ski season dates: Plan your trip between the King’s Birthday Weekend in June and the first weekend in October to experience ski season at Falls Creek.
- Top activities: In winter, you’ll be treated to the largest ski field in Victoria, with over 90 runs and 15 lifts for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tobogganing and winter tours. In summer, tackle the world-class Falls Creek Mountain Bike Park, try hiking or trail running, go fishing or even try a high course at Howman’s Gap Rock climbing.
- Transport options: The best way to travel from Bright to Falls Creek is behind the wheel of your own car. But you have a few transport options, including:
- Drive from Bright to Falls Creek
- Secure private transfers from Bright to Falls Creek
- Nearby road trips: Want to keep the drive going? Discover these nearby road trips to tackle in your own hire car:
Start your Bright to Falls Creek road trip by renting a car on Turo from a local host . Explore a variety of options, from sporty convertibles to spacious SUVs or eco-friendly EVs. Explore car rental in Bright on Turo.
How to get from Bright to Falls Creek: 3 travel options
From hiring your own car to taking scheduled mountain bus shuttles or private transfer services, there are numerous ways to get from Bright to Falls Creeks.
Drive from Bright to Falls Creek
- Driving distance: 60km
- Driving time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Suggested route:
- Take Tawonga Gap Rd/C536 and C531 to Falls Creek Rd in Falls Creek.
- Head north-east on Gavan St/Great Alpine Road/B500 towards Howitt Ln.
- Turn left onto Tawonga Gap Rd/C536.
- Turn right onto Kiewa Valley Highway/C531
- C531 turns slightly right and becomes Bogong High Plains Rd
- Continue on Falls Creek Rd. Take Slalom St to Schuss St.
- Best for: Adventurers who want to experience the best of Victoria High Country at their own pace, with the ability to explore further afield to the best road trips in Victoria.
The best way to travel from Bright to Falls Creek is by car. The roads of Victoria’s High Country are accessible all year around, but you will need snow chains if you’re planning to visit during the winter months.
The roads between Bright and Falls Creek are sealed, taking you along the Great Alpine Road. However, there are a few winding sealed roads to navigate, so make sure to reduce speed and take your time.
With the keys to your own rental car from a local Turo host, you’ll have enough room for your entire crew (and their snow gear) as well as the opportunity to extend your drive to surrounding slopes such as Mt Hotham, Mount Buller and Harrietville.
Tip from the author: The closest airport to Falls Creek is Albury Airport (with daily flights from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Canberra). Book a car to pick up from Albury Airport and tackle the two-hour drive to Falls Creek.
Private transfer from Bright to Falls Creek
- Travel distance: 60km
- Travel time: ~90 minutes (depending on weather conditions)
- Cost: From $420 per vehicle (seats up to 7 passengers), not including Resort Entry Fees ($18.50 per adult and $9.50 per child)
- Service providers: Mount Beauty Transfers offers a private transport service with pick-up and drop-off locations, including Bright and Falls Creek.
- Best for: Travellers who aren’t familiar with driving on mountain roads or who don’t have a driver’s license and are looking for an alternative way to travel from Bright to Falls Creek.
With no viable local transport provider connecting Bright and Falls Creek, securing a private transfer is your next best bet. Keep in mind that online bookings are essential and spots can fill up during peak snow season.
With a private shuttle bus or transfer, you can nominate your preferred pick up time from Bright and secure a transfer for the number of passengers you’re travelling with. Keep in mind this transport option can be expensive, particularly if you’re travelling with more than seven passengers (as you’ll need to book multiple cars).
However, if you travel to Falls Creek from a capital city such as Melbourne or Sydney in New South Wales, you could consider catching a regional train part of the way and securing a private transfer from providers such as Falls Creek Coaches, SnowBus or Snow Taxi Falls Creek.
If you’re beginning your journey from Melbourne or Sydney before heading to Bright, consider the extensive variety of rental vehicles available through local Turo hosts for a hassle-free drive. You can choose from various options, including sporty convertibles, roomy SUVs, and eco-friendly EVs.
Things to know before you get going
Hitting the road and driving from Bright to Falls Creek? Discover our top driving tips to stay safe on the road, particularly if you’re travelling during snow season.
- Best time to visit Falls Creek: Snow season tends to be peak season at Falls Creek (running from the June long weekend until the start of October). July and August tend to see the highest levels of snowfall, while late September sees fewer crowds on the slopes.
- Best vehicle for the drive: If you’re sticking to the main roads, you can easily tackle the drive from Bright to Falls Creek in a well-maintained 2WD. Find the perfect hire car from a local Turo host.
- Driving conditions: When driving in winter, reduce speed, take corners gently, and be smooth when accelerating and breaking. Engage low gear when driving down mountains and allow plenty of room between you and the car ahead. Avoid using cruise control as you’ll be slower to react in case of an emergency.
- Fuel: Keep in mind there is no petrol station at Falls Creek. The closest one is located at Mt Beauty (33km away), open 7am to 7pm year round. Make sure to fill up at every opportunity to avoid running low on fuel.
- Accommodation: There are plenty of accommodation options in Falls Creek, from apartments to hotels and even lodges. Some of the most popular spots to stay include Falls Creek Hotel ($150-$300 per night), Summit Ridge Alpine Lodge ($85-$270 per night) and Elk at Falls ($775 to $2,400+ per night).
- Accessibility: If you’re planning to drive to Falls Creek during the snow season, remember that you need to carry snow chains, these are compulsory for all drivers.
How to plan the perfect ski trip at Falls Creeks
Thinking of exploring Falls Creek during the winter months? To secure the best snow trip possible, plan ahead and follow these expert tips.
- Select dates ahead of time: If you’re looking to enjoy the best snow conditions, aim to visit Falls Creek during July and August when the region receives its highest levels of snowfall.
- Secure accommodation: The sooner you book, the better chance you’ll have of securing a good rate. From ski-in-ski-out lodges to self-contained apartments, explore the vast accommodation options available in Falls Creek.
- Purchase lift passes: These can be purchased online with a number of passes available, from single-day lift tickets to the Epic Australia Pass (widely considered the best value season pass in Australia).
- Secure your resort entry permit: If you’re driving to Falls Creek during the snow season, you must buy a permit online before your trip.
- Organise your snow equipment: To beat the queues, consider hiring your ski gear before you arrive at Falls Creek. Browse the retailers on-site at Falls Creek and compare your options.
1-day snow trip itinerary from Bright to Falls Creek
Hit the road and discover the perfect day trip itinerary taking you from Bright to Falls Creek.
Morning
- Wake up early and head to Sixpence Coffee in Bright for a coffee and a pastry or muffin to start your day.
- Take the 35-minute drive from Bright to Mount Beauty, a picturesque township in Victoria’s High Country.
- Spend your morning soaking in the views at Sullivans Lookout, strolling along the Kiewa River Trail or explore the stunning Mount Beauty Gorge.
Lunchtime
- Finish your drive from Mount Beauty to Falls Creek.
- Swing by Snonuts Donuts Cafe for a bite to eat or a sweet treat; the churros and sweet crepes are a must here!
Afternoon
- Spend the afternoon hitting the slopes at Falls Creek.
- Beginners will long Wombats Ramble, Australia’s longest green run, spanning 2.2km.
- Advanced skiers will be challenged with some of Australia’s best side-country skiing. Don’t miss Mt MacKay, Mt Nelse and the Rocky Knolls.
Evening
- Enjoy a refined dining experience at Astra, a European-style lodge with top-notch local craft beers and an extensive wine list on offer.
- Fancy the flavours of Southeast Asia? Head to Huski Kitchen for delicious share-style eats (bookings are essential for lunch and dinner).
Tip from the author: Did you know that Falls Creek Mountain Bike Park has world-class mountain biking trains? Open from November annually, 50km of gravity defying trails are located in the Victorian Alpine National Park, with routes suited to everyone from beginners to experienced riders.
Frequently asked questions about travelling to Falls Creek from Bright
Is it easy to drive to Falls Creek?
During the winter months, driving to Falls Creek can present a few challenges. Ice and snow can cause the road to become slippery, which is why snow chains are compulsory during snow season. However, both 2WD and 4WD cars can access Falls Creek with sealed roads covering the distance from Bright to Falls Creek.
What is the closest town to Falls Creek?
Mount Beauty is the closest town to Falls Creek, located 33km away. Mt Beauty has the nearest petrol station to Falls Creek, making it the perfect spot to refuel and stock up on groceries before driving up the mountain.
When should I go to Falls Creek?
The best time to visit Falls Creek for the ski season is between July and August annually. This is when the snow is the deepest and skiing conditions are the best. However, this is peak season so the crowds will also be at their height, which makes booking ahead essential.
Is Falls Creek beginner friendly?
Yes, Falls Creek is a fantastic place for beginners and those learning to ski or snowboard. There are a number of designated beginner-friendly zones (such as Drovers area) and Australia’s longest green run, Wombats Ramble.
Final tips for your Bright to Falls Creek road trip
Whether you’re looking to enjoy the Victorian Snowfields, or want to experience the beauty of the state’s Alpine scenery and mountain ranges, the journey from Bright to Falls Creek promises unbeatable scenery and diverse landscapes. No matter your travel preferences, you’ll find a range of options that include private transfer and bus services to get you to your destination seamlessly.
With plenty of detours to be made along the way and sights to see, it’s worth taking the time to explore at your own pace. With Turo, you’ll find unique cars you can’t find anywhere else, ready to be delivered to you from a local Turo host. Find your drive on Turo.
Keep the drive going and discover 12 of the best road trips in Victoria. If you’re heading back to the city, don’t miss the very best road trip itineraries starting from Melbourne.
Lucinda Starr
Lucinda is a Sydney-based content specialist and avid road tripper. Having travelled across Asia, North America and the South Pacific, she's experienced everything from glamping in a Yurt in -30 degrees in The Yukon, snorkelling in the open seas of Vanuatu and hiking the rocky alps of Kamikochi in Japan. She's currently planning her next overseas adventure, a toss-up between a classic #EuroSummer or a multi-day trek through Nepal.
