Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort

Overview

Mt Baw Baw is Melbourne's closest alpine resort (~150 km east, 2.5 hr drive) and the only Gippsland alpine MTB destination. Sitting at ~1,564 m, the resort hosts a substantial trail network with the famed double-black DH1 downhill trail, plus a network of XC and gravity trails servicing all abilities. The resort is free to access in green season — among the cheapest entry points to alpine MTB in Australia.

Operations during green season are limited compared to winter — most food and beverage is closed except on event weekends — but trail access is unrestricted, and the resort runs shuttle services on select event weekends for DH1 access. The mountain has built a reputation as a "hidden gem" for riders who don't mind the BYO-shuttle requirement on regular weekends.

Location & Access

Address: Currawong Road, Baw Baw Village VIC 3833
Region: Gippsland
Drive times: ~2.5 hr from Melbourne (150 km via Princes Hwy + Mt Baw Baw Tourist Rd)
Public transport: None during green season — car required
Parking: Free at Carpark 1
Coords: -38.1989, 146.3157

Best Season & Conditions

Peak riding season: End of November to late April (green season)
DH1 access: Green season only, excluding major event weekends
Wet-weather impact: Trails generally well-drained; DH1 may close after major rain
Fire-danger / TFB: Lower trails may close on Total Fire Ban days
Snow / alpine season: Resort flips to ski operation late-June – early-September
Full-face helmet required on DH1; body armour advised

Managing Body & Trail Builders

Land manager / operator: Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort Management Board
Trail building: Combination of resort crew and external contractors
Volunteer / dig days: Limited; check operator site

History & Background

Long-running double-black DH1 run that put the resort on the gravity map
Resort historically a Nordic / alpine ski destination; MTB program built out across 2010s
More recent investment in expanded XC and intermediate gravity network to broaden appeal beyond DH-only riders