Closest Snow to Melbourne – Mt Donna Buang Warburton

Good news for snow-seekers: you don’t have to trek halfway across Victoria to find the cold stuff.

The closest snow to Melbourne is usually found at the summit of Mt Donna Buang, near Warburton, just 70km east of the CBD. Even better, it’s close enough to make a spontaneous winter day trip when the snow gods are feeling generous, and it's FREE to visit.

For daily snow updates (during the snow season), go to Visit Warburton Facebook page and make sure you check conditions before you go. Snowfall can be a little here-one-day, gone-the-next, so timing is everything.

A little heads-up: on big snow-dump weekends, Mt Donna Buang can get very busy. Pack your patience, snacks and sensible shoes, as you may need to wait in traffic or walk a little further than planned.

Check out our FAQ page before you travel.

With free access to the mountain (yes that’s right no charge!) Mt Donna Buang is the perfect place for families to enjoy a low or no-cost snow experience and is especially popular for first-time snow outings.

The pretty village of Warburton lies at the base of Mt Donna Buang and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to fill hungry tummies with a variety of delicious meals and snacks either before or after you visit (or both).

The trip up the Mt Donna Buang is approximately 17 km and there is generally no need for chains; however, on busy days, travellers may need to be prepared to wait for access and depending on conditions there may be restrictions in place (and snow clearing each morning) – Parks Victoria and VicRoads are handy information sources on the day. Your patience will ensure everyone has a great time.

Essential snow updates can be found each morning on the Visit Warburton – The Waterwheel Facebook page – the official site for Warburton Valley - so be sure to like the page to stay in the loop.

Snowfalls can be generous but at times unpredictable, so always check weather conditions before you set off. You can also pop into our Visitor Information Centre - The Waterwheel - on the main street of Warburton to chat with one of our volunteers and pick up some maps.

Children and families will enjoy the wide open spaces for making snowmen, tobogganing and general snow play.

Make sure to dress warmly and pack a dry set of clothes so that when you come off the mountain, you can relax and enjoy all the other activities Warburton has to offer. A wander on the main street will delight the senses and provide you with a relaxing outing too, and the Rainforest Gallery – halfway up the mountain – is a wonderful elevated walk through the tree tops.

Why not turn your day out in Warburton into a winter wonderland break? Stay overnight, get cosy in a B&B and take the time to slow down and enjoy a true experience of nature in all its finest. Warburton is where it all begins, including great childhood memories.