Aardvark Alpine Guide

Snow Gum Summit Recap

As the snow receded and the alpine flowers burst into life, this past summer saw Mount Hotham and Dinner Plain shift from a winter wonderland to a thriving centre for warm weather adventure. 

One of the summer season’s highlights was the Snow Gum Summit at Dinner Plain. A weekend of ecological appreciation, community gathering, and celebration of the unique snow gum forests that define this part of the Victorian Alps.

Held in the fresh late summer air, the Snow Gum Summit brought together conservationists, outdoor educators, scientists, and nature lovers. Participants enjoyed immersive forest walks, listened to expert talks on alpine biodiversity, and explored strategies for climate resilience in the high country. It was a thoughtful and inspiring weekend reminding all who attended why these landscapes are worth protecting for our future.

Winter People Summer Adventures

One of the most exciting aspects of this summer was witnessing the crossover of “winter people” those typically drawn to the region for skiing and snowboarding, embracing everything the mountains offer without the snow. This year saw a noticeable rise in winter guides, alpine sports enthusiasts, and families extending their connection to the mountains into the warmer months.

Hiking and Trail Running along routes like the Brabralung Trail, Razorback and Tabletop Walk were high on the agenda as well as Mountain Biking at Dinner Plain’s 24km of bike trails winding through ancient snow gum terrain.

Aardvark Alpine Lodge: Summer Hub

Throughout the season, Aardvark Alpine Lodge served as a home base for alpine explorers. Positioned at 1,770 metres with stunning views, the lodge provided warm hospitality, fully equipped kitchen, and shared spaces ideal for both relaxation and community building. Guests staying at Aardvark appreciated not only the comfort but also the direct access to trailheads and scenic outlooks.

Gippsland Adventure Tours Navigation Training

Aardvark Lodge also played a vital role as the base for Gippsland Adventure Tours’ alpine navigation training weekends. These courses brought together adventure seekers from all around Australia eager to develop backcountry navigation skills in the demanding terrain of the Victorian Alps. Using the lodge as their classroom and launching point, participants learned everything from map and compass fundamentals to terrain assessment and route planning, all while immersed in the high country landscape. The setting provided the perfect balance of challenge and comfort, and helped reinforce the lodge’s reputation as a year round base for outdoor enthusiasts.

Looking Back on a Mountain Summer

From the quiet wonder of the Snow Gum Summit to the energy of bike trails and the focused learning of navigation weekends, this summer showcased the full spectrum of what Mount Hotham and Dinner Plain have to offer once the snow has gone.

Here’s to everyone who crossed over from winter to summer, embraced the alpine in a new light, and helped shape a season of purpose, passion, and connection.

Until next summer! 

Copyright all photographs are property of Kelly van den Berg and Daniel Gangur