Jindabyne may be known as one of the best places in Australia to Ski and Snowboard. However, during summer the town of Jindy becomes an adventure destination for its hiking, mountain biking and fishing. Here are 10 summer activities to do when you visit Jindabyne!
Swim in Lake Jindabyne
As visitors drive into Jindabyne, they are welcomed by a great big view of Jindabyne lake. We often hear people ask “Can you swim in Lake Jindabyne?” Of course! Lake Jindabyne is a great place to relax and have a swim. The cool alpine waters are the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer’s day and there are plenty of activities to do on and around Lake Jindabyne.
Apart from swimming, the lake is so large and flat, is a great place to practice your stand-up paddleboarding. There are also many small islands and inlets that can be accessed by canoe or kayak. The Clay Pits is the most popular beach for swimming as there is a public restroom and parking area. If the wind picks up, Lake Jindabyne is also a great place to sail.
ESS Sup Rental | Sacred Ride Kayak Rental | Jindabyne Sailing Club
Fish the Thredbo River
Fishing in Jindabyne is a must-do when visiting in summer! The Snowy Mountains fishing season starts just as the snow season finishes. From the October long weekend, anglers from around the country ascend into Jindabyne in hopes of catching a fish. The Gaden Trout Hatchery releases hundreds of fish into the lake every year to join the already thriving population of trout and Atlantic Salmon in the Snowy Mountain waters.
If you head to the lake, you can use any method to catch trout. Flicking lures, fly fishing, or bait fishing are all effective ways to pull in a beautiful fish. Anglers can fish anywhere around or on the lake during the fishing season. Also, flicking lures and fly fishing is the only way you can bag a trout along the river. So bring some extra lures in case you get snagged.
If you need some extra lures or want to buy a fishing rod, visit one of the fishing shops in town.
Lakeside Lures & Tackle | High Country Outfitters | Snowy Mountain Sports
Play a Round of Frolf
Frisbee Golf has been a welcomed addition to the lake foreshore. The course is made up of 14 holes and follows similar rules to golf. You can use a regular frisbee but if you want to get serious, pick up a Frolf disc from the Ripcurl shop or from Jindy Disc Golf Shop. It takes about an hour to play the whole course so put on a hat and sunscreen and get those frisbees spinning.
Ripcurl Jindabyne | Jindy Disc Golf Shop
Sample a beer at Jindabyne Brewery
The Jindabyne Brewery offers a tasting flight of 4 of the locally brewed beer. For something light and crisp, try the Kiandra Golden Ale for something crisp. If you’re a fan of German Wheat beers, the Hefe Viess Bier is exactly what you’re looking for after a big day on the mountain. The Jindabyne Brewery is on the West side of town and is easily accessible on foot or by car. Just make sure you have a designated driver. The brewery is family-friendly and you can also bring your dog too.
Visit the Jindabyne Brewery
Do a tasting at Wild Brumby Distillery
One of Jindabynes best domestic exports is Wild Brumby schnapps and gin! The distillery is located between Jindabyne and Thredbo and is the highest distillery in Australia. They offer free tastings and there is no way you will be leaving without at least one bottle of their award winnings schnapps. Book for lunch and enjoy the full experience that Wild Brumby Distillery has to offer.
Hiking the local trails
See: Best Beginner Hikes in Jindabyne
There are plenty of hiking trails in the Snowy Mountains to suit any level of fitness. Hiking around Jindabyne and the Snowy Mountains will not disappoint, even the most experienced hikers! The Sawpit Creek Walk is an easy, relatively flat trail with a waterfall view halfway. Depending on the direction you walk the loop, you can visit and climb (if you’re brave enough) a group of large rocks at the end. For a more challenging hike, the Main Range Hike is a day-long excursion into the Snowy Mountain wilderness. Starting from charlottes Pass, the loop will take you past Blue Lake and then onto the spiral to the top of Mt Kozsiuscko, Australias highest peak. If you plan to do some hiking in the Snowy Mountains, make sure to wear a hat, bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and a first aid kit.
Main Range Walk | Sawpit Creek Waterfall Walk
Mountain Bike In Jindabyne and Thredbo
Mountain biking in Jindabyne has become increasingly popular in the last few years. In the warmer months, Jindabyne is a hub for mountain bikers visiting Thredbo and riding the local trails. Down in Jindy, there are easy mountain bike paths around the lake, like the Hatchery Bay Trail. It’s just over 5km one way so a great easy track to get the legs working. However, if it’s an adrenaline rush you are looking for, the 35kms of lift-accessed trails at Thredbo might be more your style. They also offer bike rental and have a dedicated team of mountain bike instructors to help tweak your style and build your confidence on a bike. With a mix of flow and technical trails, there is something for everyone at Thredbo.
Thredbo Mountain Bike Rental | Thredbo Mountain Bike School | Sacred Ride
Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight over Jindabyne
Want to view the highest place in Australia from above? Enjoy a helicopter ride from Snowy Mountains Helicopters over Jindabyne, the lake, and the mountains. We guarantee you won’t regret it! These guys operate all year round and take off from Jindabyne Airport, conveniently located 5 minute drive from town. There is no better way to take in Jindabyne’s breathtaking views than on a scenic flight with these guys, why not arrange a helicopter ride over Kosciusko to get the ultimate view of Australia’s highest point? Helicopter flights over Jindabyne and the mountains are a great way to celebrate a special occasion in style. Check out their website for a whole range of special packages and tours.
Take in the Views
See: Best Insta-Worthy Views in Jindabyne
A few hours to spare in Jindabyne means it’s time to scope out some of the best views in the area. From secret sunset locations to popular hiking trails, there are many great places to find a breathtaking view in Jindabyne. Most viewpoints are within a 5-minute drive from Jindy, like Sunset Hill. Which is a 5-minute drive towards Tyrolean Village and is the best place to watch the sunset. If you have more time on your hands, head down the Barry Way to the Wallace Craigie Lookout. It’s a half an hour drive to the lookout so it is a great place to stop if you are heading to Victoria or just need a little escape.
Go Horseriding in the High Country
Explore the Snowy Mountains High Country on a horse riding adventure. With single and multi-day horse riding treks, Snowy Wilderness offers horse riding in a sanctuary for wild brumby horses. For kids and less experienced riders, Thredbo Valley Horse Riding is the place to go. Exploring the Snowy Mountains High Country on horseback is the perfect way to re-live Banjo Pattersons 1890 poem, The Man From Snowy River.
The Snowy Social 
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