Friday 28 August to Sunday 30 August 2026

The Australian Backcountry Festival Returns to Mt Hotham for Winter 2026!

Returning to Mt Hotham for its ninth year, Australia’s favourite celebration of human powered snow adventures is back. From Friday 28 August to Sunday 30 August 2026, the Australian Backcountry Festival will once again transform the Victorian High Country into a vibrant hub of alpine exploration, learning, and community spirit.

Set among the snowgum lined slopes of Mt Hotham, this 100% volunteer run event invites snow shoers, cross country and telemark skiers, alpine ski tourers, split boarders, snow campers, and alpine curious newcomers to immerse themselves in the heart of backcountry culture.

More than just a festival, the weekend is a grassroots gathering created by the backcountry community, for the backcountry community - fostering connection, adventure, and responsible alpine recreation. The festival continues to grow each year, driven by volunteers who believe deeply in the power of outdoor experiences. Many attendees discover the event through word of mouth, maybe a conversation in a mountain shop, maybe a chance encounter on the trail...what unites them is a shared passion for community, exploration, and making adventures happen.

Guided Tours for all skill levels, from first‑timers to seasoned explorers.

Women’s Intermediate Tour in collaboration with Tough Tits Co.

Film Screenings showcasing alpine stories from Australia and abroad.

Hands‑on Workshops covering gear maintenance, essential outdoor knots, navigation, and backcountry coffee brewing.

Safety Skills Workshops including backcountry first aid and snow shelters.

Technical Skills Workshops for efficient cross-country skiing and mountaineering fundamentals.

Repair Café offering expert advice on gear mending and DIY fixes.

Guest Speakers sharing insights from global expeditions and mountain safety.

Nature Walks led by Friends of the Earth and Protect Our Winters Australia.

Outdoor Bar & Community Raffle - meet new backcountry friends and win gear prizes!

Backcountry Gear Expo check out the latest and greatest backcountry equipment and accessories

General Admission tickets go on sale on Sunday 19th July, 10AM, via the official ABCF website.

Workshop and tour sign-ups will open for attendees soon after (early access GA ticket holders).

Tickets are $50, or $30 for students and ADF veterans and Serving Members.
Follow the festival on Instagram for updates, behind‑the‑scenes content, and lineup announcements:
@ausbackcountryfestival

The Australian Backcountry Festival is a volunteer‑run event celebrating human‑powered winter adventures. Each year, more than 300 participants gather to share skills, stories, and a love for the mountains. The festival aims to introduce people to the ever‑growing world of backcountry activities and make them accessible, safe, and sustainable, all while fostering a welcoming and inclusive alpine community.

“The ABCF has become a cornerstone of my backcountry life - connecting me with a community of enthusiasts, professionals, and backcountry bumpkins alike. The festival forms stories, experiences, and friendships. It’s a place to learn and share backcountry adventures, and the wealth of stories shared each year is incredible to behold.

It has been a pleasure to lead this festival for the past two years. I look forward to seeing how it continues to grow and cater for all of our community, from snowshoe to SkiMo, for beginner or veteran.”