Most of the Snowy Mountains are located in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.
The Snowy Mountains form a significant part of the Australian Alps, which is the highest mountain range on the Australian continent. While the broader Australian Alps span parts of Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory, the vast majority, including the highest peaks and the most iconic features of the Snowy Mountains themselves, are situated within New South Wales. This region is not only geographically prominent but also culturally and economically vital to the state, largely due to its natural beauty, water resources, and hydroelectric power generation.
Key Geographical Details of the Snowy Mountains
Understanding the precise location and characteristics helps to appreciate the significance of this range. Here's a summary of its key geographical attributes:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country | Australia |
| Primary State | New South Wales (NSW) |
| Parent Range | Australian Alps |
| Approximate Range Coordinates | 36°30′S 148°20′E |
Significance and Contributions
The predominant placement of the Snowy Mountains within New South Wales highlights its importance to the state's geography, economy, and recreational opportunities. This area is home to Mount Kosciuszko, Australia's highest mainland peak, standing at 2,228 meters (7,310 feet). The cold climate and high elevation ensure considerable snowfalls during winter, establishing the region as the core of Australia's ski industry, featuring major resorts like Perisher and Thredbo.
Beyond tourism, the Snowy Mountains are critical for:
- Water Resources: They are the headwaters for major river systems, including the Snowy River, Murrumbidgee River, and Murray River, which are essential for irrigation and urban water supply across southeastern Australia.
- Hydroelectric Power: The mountains are the site of the ambitious Snowy Mountains Scheme, a complex network of dams, power stations, and tunnels that harnesses water flow for hydroelectricity, making it one of the largest engineering projects in the world.
- Biodiversity: The unique alpine and sub-alpine ecosystems within the range support a variety of distinct flora and fauna, much of which is protected within Kosciuszko National Park.
The concentration of these features within New South Wales firmly establishes it as the primary state associated with the iconic Snowy Mountains.
