The drive over the mountain to Mt Hotham is one of Victoria’s most breathtaking journeys, winding through dramatic alpine landscapes and high-country vistas. But while the views are unforgettable, alpine roads can change quickly — and being prepared is key.
Whether you’re heading up for snow season, chasing crisp mountain air and panoramic views, or simply travelling through the Alpine High Country, a little preparation makes all the difference.
Here’s what to check before you go, when chains are required, who to contact if plans change, and what to consider if adverse conditions or caravans are involved.
Read more about the route: Mt Hotham via Omeo Drive
What to Check Before You Head Out
Alpine conditions can change quickly, so preparation before leaving East Gippsland can save a lot of stress.
Before you hit the road, we recommend checking the following :
- The Bureau of Meteorology weather forecast for Mt Hotham, Dinner Plain and Omeo
- VicTraffic for current road conditions, closures and delays, especially on the Great Alpine Road
- Snow chain requirements (check your vehicle manual to ensure your vehicle meets the clearance requirements for fitted wheel chains before you leave home). It is a legal requirement to carry diamond-pattern snow chains during the declared winter period each year. Chains are not available for hire on the mountain beyond Omeo and must be carried from your ascent either there, or in Harrietville on the other side. Chain hire can be organised through Omeo Ski Hire,
- Mt Hotham live snow cams, to see visibility, snowfall and road-side conditions in real time
- Fuel availability. Omeo is the last major fuel stop when approaching Mt Hotham from East Gippsland
- The official Mt Hotham Resort winter guide to visiting Mt Hotham for information about parking, a map showing chain fitting bays, and alpine driving tips
Snow Season & Chain Requirements
During the declared snow season (typically King’s Birthday long weekend in June to late September or early October), all vehicles must carry correctly fitting diamond-pattern snow chains when travelling to Mt Hotham or Dinner Plain, including 2WDs and AWD/4WDs.
- Chains must be carried from Harrietville or Omeo
- Chains must be fitted when directed
- Ladder chains, spider chains, and snow socks cannot be used in Mount Hotham Alpine Resort.
Vehicles that cannot fit chains are not permitted to continue up the mountain.
Snow Chain Hire & Fitting (Gippsland Side)
If you’re approaching Mt Hotham from East Gippsland via Omeo, you can hire chains from the Omeo Service Station or Hoys Snow Chains in Omeo.
- Located on the Great Alpine Road in Omeo
- Diamond-pattern chains for hire or purchase
- No roadside hire between Omeo and Dinner Plain
- Limited opening days in winter (usually Fri–Mon)
Towing a Caravan or Trailer? Read This First
The Great Alpine Road over Mt Hotham is steep, winding and narrow in places. While technically open year-round, it’s not generally recommended for caravans or large trailers, particularly:
- During snow season
- In wet, icy, or low-visibility conditions
- For drivers without alpine towing experience
- For drivers who haven’t brushed up on their knowledge of Victorian towing rules recently. The last 30km is a consistent descent into Harrietville and drivers must be aware of driving using their gears and not relying on brakes. This is a high accident zone and without experience can be very dangerous.
If you’re towing, consider leaving the van in Omeo and using the local bus service for a day or overnight trip up the mountain instead. If you’re just seeking a route into NSW, the Monaro Highway is lower altitude with far fewer twists and turns, suitable for all vehicles.
If You Get Stuck or Need Help
Be mindful that mobile coverage can be limited in alpine areas. Let someone know when to expect you, and what you’d like them to do if you don’t arrive within the expected timeframe. Outside of that, make sure you have these numbers handy:
- Emergency (life-threatening): Call 000
- Storm or road-related help: SES 132 500
- Urgent road hazards: VicRoads 13 11 70
If conditions deteriorate, it’s often safest to turn around early or delay your trip rather than push on.
Alternative Routes if Conditions Aren’t Ideal
If Mt Hotham or the Great Alpine Road isn’t suitable on the day:
Option 1: Take the A1 from Bairnsdale to Cann River. From here you can choose to continue along the A1 along the Sapphire Coast in NSW or turn left and take the B23 Monaro Highway towards Bombala.
These are generally the easiest ways to get into NSW from East Gippsland. The roads are wider, and less windy, so while it’s a slightly longer route than going across Mt Hotham, you can maintain the recommended speed the whole way.
Option 2: Take the C543 from Omeo via Mitta Mitta towards the B400, where you can either turn left towards Albury Wodonda or right to head to Khancoban. This route is sealed, and suitable for experienced drivers with AWD or 4WD vehicles. Not recommended for people inexperienced with towing. While it is still windy, it is not as steep or as elevated as the route over Hotham and can be option when Hotham is closed due to snow.
Option 3: Take the C612 from Orbost via Goongerah towards Delegate. This road is mostly sealed with a gravel section and suitable for AWD. Caravans can pass through this way but be mindful of the gravel section and driving to the conditions.
Option 4: If wanting to go via the C601 Dargo Highplains Road, note that this is 4WD only and not recommended for caravans. The road is dirt and has a annual closure between June and October during winter.
Option 5: If Hotham isn’t closed or inaccessible due to snow, the C531 via Falls Creek towards the B400 is another option. The road is fully sealed, and similarly windy to the route over Mt Hotham. Similar caution is advised. While caravans can do this route, it is recommended for experienced drivers only.
Option 6: The C608 via Suggan Buggan to the Barry Way is not recommended for caravans, inexperienced drivers and drivers without a 4WD. It is very windy, and has a significant section that is all dirt, single lane with steep drop-offs.
Option 7: The C545 from Omeo via Benambra towards the B400 and Corryong is generally recommended for AWDs only but drivers need to be aware of driving to the conditions. It is often corrugated, and conditions depend on when the last grading was conducted. Campers and caravans can be towed however there is over an hour of dirt road driving, and it’s often slow going despite the width of the road.
Final Tip: Flexibility is Key
Driving to Mt Hotham is part of the adventure, but the safest plan is a flexible one. Check conditions, carry chains, allow extra time, and if it doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to turn back.
If you need local advice or tips specific to your driving setup and intended route, the team at East Gippsland Visitor Information Centres are always happy to help.
