By JESS DALTON, Dinner Plain resident
Walk into winter at Hotham and Dinner Plain with scenic trails and snow-covered plains that offer something for everyone!
Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore the mountains in winter.
It’s easy to learn, requires minimal equipment, and transforms familiar trails into a whole new adventure.
On the Hotham side, two walks you won’t want to miss this winter are The Summit Walk and Mount Higginbotham.
The Summit Walk can be accessed from two points: the Diamantina Hut trailhead, or via the track parallel to the Summit Chairlift - which in winter, you’ll need to ride the chair with skis or a snowboard attached, to access this from the resort side.
The walk itself is about 2.5 km and moderately easy, though a little hiking experience is advised.
In winter, snowshoes make your way from the top of the chair much more enjoyable - especially for snowboarders - keeping your boots dry as you are not sinking into the snow.
At the summit you’ll be greeted by expansive westerly views over the alpine ranges where the sunsets are truly spectacular.
Mount Higginbotham is another favourite, offering a viewing deck partway up and a wooden picnic shelter at the top.
The track is relatively short and easy, making it a perfect introduction to snowshoeing for beginners, and another viewing option for the incredible sunsets.
Both walks are fun in all seasons, but snow transforms them into quiet winter landscapes that feel like a new adventure.
Over on the Dinner Plain side Carmichael Falls and Room with a View are both around 2–3kms and rated easy to moderate.
Carmichael Falls
Walk the full trail to reach the viewing platform at the bottom, where you may see the waterfall cascade over the cliff.
A smaller waterfall along the way is beautiful, but the main lookout is at the end of the track.
Snow can make the falls harder to access, but it also makes them look unbelievable with snow around the cascades.
On the return, take your time, as most of the trail back is uphill!
Room with a View
Follow the tracks and signs to the trail head opposite the playground across the alpine round.
Part way along the trail, you will come to a junction, take the left path, there’s a short descent that leads straight to the view.
These walks can be a little bit trickier in the winter, but they are short and manageable, even with moderate snow.
Walking in snowshoes can make deep snow easier to cross.
In heavy snow, however, the trail might not be clearly visible, so basic navigation skills are helpful.
For those new to snowshoeing, guided experiences like the Nature Alpine Experience are a great way to get started.
They provide equipment, local knowledge, and help you explore safely.
Otherwise, snowshoes can be hired locally, though availability and pricing vary.
For winter adventures, dress warmly and in waterproof layers.
Bring sun cream, hats or beanies, sunglasses or goggles, thermals, waterproof pants and jackets, warm socks, waterproof insulated boots, and gloves.
Poles with snow baskets will help with stability.
Start early, carry a small map or GPS, and be prepared to turn back if heavy snow covers trail markers.
Snowshoe-friendly trails for beginners, like Collectors Cirque and Brabralung Trail from Dinner Plain to JB Plain Hut, are the perfect place to start.
These short, mostly flat walks, wind through snow-covered snowgums, open plains, and pass the unique Dinner Plain architecture.
They’re ideal for refreshing wanderings, snowball fights, or simply taking in the peace and beauty of winter.
When walking on shared cross country trails be mindful and please walk off to the side of the groomed surface to avoid damage to the set tracks.
The cross country trails to the east of Dinner Plain are not shared so please stay where is suitable for your ability and the safety of those around you.
The Hotham and Dinner Plain trails offer a range of experiences.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced walker, snowshoeing is a perfect option for those who want to slow down and enjoy the scenery without skiing or snowboarding.