Legal Requirements
Snow chains help ensure your safety and are compulsory on 2WD vehicles and recommended for 4WD from the June to October long weekends on the following roads:
- Kosciuszko Road from the park boundary at Thredbo River
- Alpine Way between Thredbo and Tom Groggin
- Island Bend/Guthega Road for its full length
- Note: Chains are not required to the Bullocks Skitube terminal
All two-wheel drive vehicles entering the Kosciuszko Road in the Mount Kosciuszko National Park must carry snow chains in winter unless the signs say otherwise (you’ll be fined if you’re caught without them).
Fitting Chains
The chains must be fitted when directed by signs or a Roads and Maritime Services Traffic Commander.
Generally, this will happen at the special chain fitting bays along the route. If you do need to fit them on the roadside, choose a straight stretch of road where other drivers can see you and where there’s enough room to safely park and fit the chains.
Snow chains are loops of chain that fit over your car’s wheels (usually the back wheels on rear wheel drive cars and front wheels on front wheel drive cars) to provide extra traction in the snow – refer to your car manual or car manufacturer for exact fitting requirements.
Handy Tips
There are many chain hire outlets along the route to the NSW snow country in Cooma, Berridale and Jindabyne.
Here are a few handy tips:
- Make sure the chains you buy or hire are suitable for the wheel diameter and tyre size of your vehicle.
- It is your responsibility to know how to fit wheel chains and ensure they are the correct size
- Pack a waterproof blanket to lie on and keep your gloves accessible
- Practice fitting the chains before leaving home or at the hire outlet
- If you’re unsure of anything, don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions at the hire shop
- Remember, you don’t need to jack up your car to fit the chains. In fact, it could be very dangerous if the road is icy and slippery
- Do not exceed 40km while snow chains are fitted and keep a safe emergency breaking distance from vehicles in front