posted on 12 July 2024
If you’re itching to get away from the hustle of Melbourne, then Mount Baw Baw should be at the top of your snow trip list. About 2.5 hours drive east of Melbourne, it’s the closest resort for alpine skiing and snowboarding in Victoria. Cruise through peaceful farmlands, historic towns and rolling hills, before finally climbing through stunning mountain forests to reach the slopes.
Need help planning your trip? We’ve got the rundown of everything you need to know about getting from Melbourne to Mount Baw Baw; from the best driving routes and travel tips, to what to do once you get into town — buckle up and get ready to explore!
Plan your drive: An overview of the Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw road trip
Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw distance and drive time:
- Approximately 180 km, around 2.5 to 3 hours drive time
Travel / Transport options:
- Drive (most popular)
- Train
- Bus
Top stops along the way:
- Noojee Trestle Bridge – This historic bridge is one of the longest in Victoria and gives beautiful views over the Latrobe River valley. It’s a scenic spot for photos.
- Blue Rock Lake – Located within the scenic Blue Rock Lake Reserve, it’s a great spot to take a driving break, with picnic and barbecue facilities right on the lake shore.
- Tanjil Bren – Scenic mountain views and the town’s historical mining museum make it worth a stop.
- Willow Grove – A picturesque 19th-century village nestled along a creek, it’s worth exploring for its historic structures.
- Icy Creek – A beautiful natural setting within native forest, it’s a peaceful spot for short walks to stretch your legs through the woodland scenery.
Best time to travel from Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw:
- Winter months (June to September) for winter activities
- Spring (October to November) for hiking and nature walks
Why Mt Baw Baw should be on your snow trip itinerary
As the closest snow resort from Melbourne, Mt Baw Baw is an easy getaway for day trips or longer stays. But what really sets it apart is its intimate, family-friendly atmosphere. Unlike larger resorts, winter at Mt Baw Baw is more relaxed, with relatively shorter lift lines and smaller crowds.
There are over 35 hectares of skiable terrain, seven ski lifts and 15 runs that range from beginner to challenging, with activities including skiing, snowboarding and toboggan trails for both kids and adults. If you’re looking to try something new, husky sled tours are a fantastic way to explore the backcountry, while snowshoe tours take you through the alpine wilderness at a slower pace. If you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a rare (and critically endangered) Baw Baw Frog on your walk.
As the day winds down, there’s still plenty of entertainment with live music and a spirited après-ski scene. If you can’t get enough of the snow, night skiing is available every Saturday if the weather is good.
For longer stays, Baw Baw Village has a number of cosy lodges, spa suites and budget-friendly rooms. There’s also a good selection of dining options with restaurants, cafes and pubs that have views stretching out to the ocean on clear days.
How to get to Mt Baw Baw from Melbourne: 5 ways
Drive from Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw
There are four main driving routes from Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw, each with a unique scenic experience.
- Tourist Road via Noojee: Quickest and most popular scenic route from the CBD.
- Tourist Road via Eastern Suburbs: Direct and scenic route for those in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
- Tourist Road via Willow Grove: Longer but with beautiful lake views along the way.
- South Face Road: Less winding and more direct route than the Tourist Road.
We’ll be exploring these four routes in detail below so you know exactly what to expect on your journey. Driving is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Mt Baw Baw and it’s worth it for the scenic views and sites along the way. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can still enjoy the drive with a car rental for your snow trip through Turo.
- Distance: Approximately 180 km – 200 km
- Travel time: Between 2.5 – 3 hours depending on weather conditions
- Cost: Day entry pass – $64 per car, Tire chain hire (winter) – $49
Want to secure the perfect vehicle for your Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw drive? Turo offers a range of vehicle hire options for traversing these roads year-round. Choose a vehicle equipped for snowy roads so you can confidently tackle the drive from Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw. Explore car rental in Melbourne on Turo.
Catch a train to Mt Baw Baw from Melbourne
Travelling to Mt Baw Baw by train is a longer journey than driving and can be a bit of a hassle since there’s no direct service. But if you prefer a public transport option, here’s the best way to do it:
- Catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross or Flinders Street station:
- Trains depart from Southern Cross and Flinders Street stations regularly.
- If you’re starting out from Melbourne Airport, take the SkyBus to Spencer Street, then transfer to Southern Cross Station.
- Travel along the Gippsland line to Warragul or Moe train station:
- Warragul and Moe are the closest train stations to Mt Baw Baw
- The train journey will take you through scenic landscapes.
- Transfer to Mt Baw Baw Village:
- Once you reach Warragul or Moe railway station, you will need to organise a taxi or shuttle transfer to Mt Baw Baw village.
- These transfers can be arranged separately, and there are a number of private operators to choose from.
- Distance: Approximately 150 km from Melbourne CBD
- Travel time: Around 2 hours to reach Warragul or Moe railway station, and another 1.5 hours drive time to reach Baw Baw village
- Cost: Train fares start from around $10 one-way, Taxi fares start from around $200 one way, Resort entry shuttle (winter) – 30$
Take a bus from Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw
Privately operated buses and shuttle services are available from Melbourne right to the Mount Baw Baw resort entrance. The journey will begin from a designated pickup location like Williams Landing, Federation Square, and Fountain Gate.
- Distance: Approximately 180 km from Melbourne CBD
- Travel time: Around 2.5-3 hours
- Cost: Bus fares start from $85 per person return, Bus passenger resort entry fee – $20.50 per person (if not included in ticket cost)
Mt Baw Baw day trip itinerary from Melbourne
If you’re short on time, a Mt Baw Baw day trip is an option. Here’s a fun-filled itinerary to make the most out of your snow time!
Morning
- Early Start: Hit the road early to maximise your time in the snow. Aim to leave Melbourne by 6:00 AM.
- Arrival: Arrive at Mt Baw Baw around 9:00 AM, just in time to see the morning sun glistening on the snow.
- Gear Up: Head straight to Mount Baw Baw Skiing and Snowboard Hire to rent your equipment.
- Book a Lesson: If it’s your first time on the snow, book in a lesson for snowboarding or skiing. There’s group and private lessons available and even sessions for teens and younger kids.
- Lift Passes: If you haven’t already, purchase your lift passes online to save time. You can do this through the Mount Baw Baw website.
Lunch
- Grab a Meal: Around 12:30 PM, take a break and warm up with a hearty meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the Village. Try the Alpine Hotel Bistro or the Village Central Restaurant for great views and a cosy atmosphere — perfect for a quick recharge before hitting the slopes again.
Afternoon
- Mt Baw Baw Activities:
- Skiing/Snowboarding: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s a trail for everyone.
- Tobogganing: If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, head to the toboggan trail.
- Snowshoeing: For a more relaxed pace, explore the snowy trails with a pair of snowshoes.
- Mueller Chairlift: Grab a scenic ride on the Mueller Chairlift – it’s a must-do for any first time visitor for breathtaking views of the mountains.
Evening
- Explore the Village: Before heading back, take some time to explore Baw Baw Village. Discover local shops and cosy cafes, perfect for a hot chocolate or a souvenir.
- Departure: Aim to leave Baw Baw by 5:00 PM to ensure a safe and comfortable drive back to Melbourne, arriving around 8:00 PM.
Tips
- Dress Warmly: Layer up to stay warm and dry throughout the day.
- Stay Hydrated: Even in the cold, it’s important to drink plenty of water.
- Check Weather Conditions: Always check the weather and road conditions before you leave to ensure a safe trip.
- Book in advance: Get your lift passes, entry tickets and activity passes in advance to save time.
- Mt Baw Baw Map: Download the map to make planning activities easier.
Driving from Melbourne to Mount Baw Baw: directions and 4 scenic route options
There’s simply no better way to get to Mount Baw Baw’s snow fields than driving. No matter which route you choose to take, it’s endless views of Victoria’s stunning alpine landscapes, scenic natural wonders like the beautiful Blue Rock Lake, and historic towns and sites along the way.
Option 1: Tourist Road via Noojee
This is the most popular route among visitors travelling from Melbourne, with a total drive time of around 2.5 hours. The journey is absolutely picturesque, winding through the heart of the alpine forests. While it does feature some curvier sections of road, they can be easily handled by a 2WD.
- Depart Melbourne and head east on the Princes Highway (M1)
- Take the Drouin / Mount Baw Baw exit
- Continue along the well-maintained Main Neerim Road (C426), passing through the town of Noojee
- The road will then transition into the scenic Mount Baw Baw Tourist Road
- Travel through the areas of Icy Creek and Tanjil Bren as you climb towards the resort
- The last major fuel stop before reaching Mount Baw Baw is in Longwarry
Tips for this route:
- Stop in Noojee for a refreshment break or take a quick detour to Toorongo Falls
- Drive cautiously on the curvier sections of road
Option 2: Tourist Road via Eastern Suburbs
For those in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, this route provides a more direct and scenic drive to Mount Baw Baw, taking around 2 hours from Lilydale.
- Head along the Warburton Highway to Yarra Junction
- At Yarra Junction, turn right onto the Yarra Junction-Noojee Road
- Follow this road through Powelltown and Noojee, where you’ll join the Mount Baw Baw Tourist Road
- Continue on through Icy Creek and Tanjil Bren until you reach the resort entry
Tips for this route:
- The last fuel stop is on the Warburton Highway in Launching Place
Option 3: Tourist Road via Willow Grove
If you want ultimate views of rolling hills and lakes and don’t mind a slightly longer drive (about 3 hours from Melbourne), then take this route through the township of Willow Grove.
- Take the turn off from the Princes Highway/M1 at either the Trafalgar or Moe exit onto Willow Grove Road
- Follow this road for approximately 35km, passing farmland and the beautiful Blue Rock Lake
- Continue on Willow Grove Rd as it winds uphill past pastures and tree lines
- After Hill End, turn right to stay on Willow Grove Rd for another 15km
- Continue on through Icy Creek and Tanjil Bren until you reach the resort entry
Tips for this route:
- The last fuel stops are in Trafalgar or Moe
- In Willow Grove town centre, you’ll find a general store and picnic areas to stretch your legs
Option 4: The South Face Road
For a slightly more direct and less winding route, the South Face Road is a good alternative, although it does have around 25km of unsealed dirt road. This option takes a similar 2.5 hour drive time from Melbourne. Follow the Princes Highway (M1) and turn off at either Moe or Traralgon.
From Moe:
- Take the exit from the M1 at Moe, then continue through the town of Erica
- At Parkers Corner, continue straight onto the Thomson Valley Road
- Turn left onto the South Face Road after 3km
From Traralgon:
- In Traralgon, turn at the traffic lights by McDonald’s
- Head along Grey Street, following signs to Tyers and Walhalla
- Continue on the C481 through Rawson
- At Parkers Corner, turn right onto the Thomson Valley Road
- After 3km, turn left onto the South Face Road
Tips for this route:
- The unsealed section of the South Face Road requires cautious driving
- Fill up on fuel in Moe or Traralgon before tackling this route
General tips for driving to Mount Baw Baw:
- If you’re driving during the winter months, it’s mandatory to carry wheel chains. The weather can change quickly in the alpine area and you should be prepared to fit them if necessary.
- Mount Baw offers a chain fitting service at the entrance gate. You can also hire chains at shops in Erica, Noojee, Neerim South, Tanjil Bren, and Icy Creek.
- Free parking is available for day visitors. For overnight winter stays, vehicles must move to a paid car park after check-in.
- There’s no petrol station at the top of the mountain, so fill your tank at the last fuel stops on any route before arriving.
Keep the drive going: Snow day trips from Melbourne and greater VIC
Conquered the slopes of Mt Baw Baw? Victoria’s got even more snowy adventures waiting to be discovered. Keep your drive going with these winter trips:
- Melbourne to Falls Creek
- Melbourne to Mt Hotham
- Bright to Mt Hotham
- Bright to Falls Creek
- Mansfield to Mt Buller
- Harrietville to Mt Hotham
- The Great Alpine Road
Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw: FAQs
What is the cheapest way to travel from Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw?
Bus is generally the cheapest option when it comes to getting to Mt Baw Baw.
How do I travel from Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw without a car?
Catch a bus from Melbourne with shuttle services to the resort, or take a train to Warragul or Moe with a connecting taxi or shuttle to Mt Baw Baw.
Which is better Mt Buller or Mt Baw Baw?
Mt Buller is larger with more challenging terrain, while Mount Baw Baw is smaller, family-friendly, and closer to Melbourne.
Is Mt Baw Baw worth it?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for a quick getaway or longer stay, with a relaxed atmosphere. Great for families and beginners, plus beautiful scenery.
Can I drive to Mount Baw Baw?
Yes, driving is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach Mt Baw Baw from Melbourne, with several scenic route options to choose from.
Do I need snow chains for Mt Baw Baw?
It’s a legal requirement to carry wheel chains during winter months, even if you don’t fit them. Mount Baw Baw has a chain fitting service at the entrance gate. You can also hire chains along the drive at shops in Erica, Noojee, Neerim South, Tanjil Bren, and Icy Creek.
Want to explore more of Victoria’s Alpine regions? Discover charming historic towns, breathtaking mountain vistas, and one of a kind local experiences – all 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.
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.
