The Snowy Mountains Trek: Safety Tips Your Mum Won't Tell You

When someone mentions ‘Snowy Mountains', for most the image that comes to mind is one of… well… snow. And mountains. And mountains with snow. But although that might be true in winter, the other seasons offer just as much for the dedicated rider. For example, a great relaxing ride can be taken in Autumn, as the leaves start to change and the temperature starts to drop. It's not too hot to be wearing your leathers and helmet, but the chances of rain aren't that great, so you won't get wet and freeze either. Sheesh, I sound like your mother: "Make sure you're wearing clean underwear!"

Aaanyway. If you want something romantic, the nights are cool enough to sit by a roaring fire without getting heat stroke! You can take the wife or girlfriend horse riding during the day - and take off on your bike for a nice long ride . Plan a picnic or two, and plenty of walks to stretch your legs out (‘the Snowies' are about five hours from Sydney, which although is not a full day's ride, can still be difficult depending on the weather - be prepared for closures of minor roads, and even some major thoroughfares, and snow can fall even in the warmer months).

In the summer, there are plenty of things to do during the day so there's no excuse to be bored when you want a break from the bike. There are wineries, festivals and plenty of outdoor activities. In winter, of course, you can ski (or, if you're like me and don't ski, just ride around on the chairlifts all day and wile away the afternoon in one of the local pubs). Care needs to be taken in Winter as black ice can form on roads, some roads can be closed, and the weather can turn pretty mean quite quickly - always be prepared by getting an up-to-date weather report before you leave your accommodation, and take along plenty of supplies and warm gear in case it does get nasty. Check local road conditions and if in doubt, don't. There are plenty of nice drives, so if one road is closed, there'll be another (safer) route to take. For example, the drive taking in Bredbo, Cooma, Berridale, Thredbo, Batlow, Tumut and Adaminaby is not to be missed and offers plenty in each town so you can do the whole stop-revive-survive thing. Beware too of fees to enter the national parks - it might be handy to carry some extra change; obviously it's more expensive in winter.

The Snowy Mountains are so much more than snow and mountains (although, that is a big part). It's a ride you must do at least twice - once in the cooler months and once when it warms up again.