If you’re keen to visit the snow but not quite ready for a full-blown ski trip, Corin Forest is the perfect alternative. Just 45 minutes from Canberra and around 3.5 hours from Sydney, this alpine escape offers a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy the magic of winter.
With gentle slopes, guaranteed snow in winter, and plenty of space for snowplay and beginner skiing, it’s an ideal spot for your child’s first snow day—or simply a fun, low-stress snowy adventure.
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What You’ll Find at Corin Forest
Set in the Tidbinbilla Mountain Range, Corin Forest is a small snowfield that creates a winter experience through man-made snow, making it one of the few places near Sydney where snow is guaranteed during the season.
Snowplay sessions run for two hours and are perfect for building snowmen, tobogganing, and getting hands-on with snow, especially for children seeing it for the first time. For those keen to try skiing, Corin offers a gentle beginner slope with ski and snowboard lessons available for children aged 4 and up.
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Facilities and Onsite Options
The experience is designed to be easy and accessible for families. All snow gear—including jackets, pants, gloves, boots, and toboggans—can be hired onsite. There’s also a cosy alpine lodge serving woodfired pizza, coffee, and hot drinks, with a fireplace for warming up between sessions.
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What to Know Before You Go
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Online bookings are essential for both Snowplay and ski lessons. Weekends and school holidays fill quickly – book here.
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All ages are welcome in the Snowplay zone. Children under 2 enter free, but should be well rugged up.
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Snow gear hire is available at Corin Forest, or you can bring your own.
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Check road and weather conditions before leaving, especially in colder months.
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Canberra accommodation makes a great overnight base if you’d like to turn your trip into a short getaway.
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Make a Weekend of It
If you’re heading that way, it’s worth pairing your Corin Forest visit with a few family favourites in Canberra, such as Questacon, the National Arboretum, or Cockington Green Gardens. There are plenty of accommodation options suitable for families, from serviced apartments to hotels with indoor pools—perfect for warming up after a day in the snow.
