The Big Chairlift
Height
Unknown
Year Built
Address
River Walkway, Jindabyne, NSW 2627
The Lowdown
The Big Chairlift sits proudly on the river walkway overlooking the scenic Snowy River in Jindabyne, the gateway to Australia's Snowy Mountains and Kosciuszko National Park. This unique sculpture celebrates the region's identity as Australia's premier alpine destination, where ski resorts like Thredbo and Perisher draw winter sports enthusiasts from across the country. The chairlift represents the modern skiing era that has transformed Jindabyne from a quiet pastoral town into a bustling year-round tourist hub. Positioned to take advantage of stunning mountain views, the Big Chairlift offers visitors a perfect photo opportunity whether they're heading up to the snow in winter or exploring the mountains' hiking trails and wildflowers in summer.
Did you know?
"The Snowy Mountains receive more snow than the Swiss Alps on average"
History
Jindabyne has been the gateway to Australia's Snowy Mountains since the development of ski resorts in the region during the mid-20th century. The original town of Jindabyne was actually relocated in the 1960s when Lake Jindabyne was created as part of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme. The Big Chairlift celebrates the skiing culture that has become synonymous with the region, drawing thousands of visitors each winter to resorts like Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass, and Selwyn. The first chairlift in Australia was installed at Thredbo in 1957, revolutionizing access to the alpine terrain and helping establish the Snowy Mountains as a world-class ski destination.
More Fun Facts
- •Jindabyne is the gateway to Kosciuszko National Park, home to Australia's highest peak
- •The original Jindabyne township lies submerged beneath Lake Jindabyne
- •Australia's first chairlift was installed at Thredbo in 1957
- •The Snowy Mountains receive more snow than the Swiss Alps on average
- •Jindabyne transforms from a winter ski town to a summer adventure hub for hiking and mountain biking
Visiting Tips
- 💡Walk the scenic Jindabyne Foreshore Trail for more great views
- 💡In winter, book accommodation well in advance as the town fills with skiers
- 💡Summer offers excellent trout fishing in Lake Jindabyne
- 💡Combine with a visit to Mount Kosciuszko, accessible via Thredbo chairlift
Opening Hours
The river walkway is accessible at all times.
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