For a scenic mountain day trip, drive the Snowy Mountains Highway from Adaminaby, passing Delaney’s Hut, Sawyers Hut and then the ruins of the historic town of Kiandra and the Kiandra Courthouse/Chalet.

Kiandra is best known as the birthplace of skiing in Australia, and the Kiandra Gold Rush which began in 1859. Over 15,000 people resided in Kiandra at its peak. Norwegian miners introduced skiing in 1861, and the heady days of the gold rush soon declined, although mining did continue until 1905.  

You can learn more about the area's history by taking the short heritage walking track via Matthews Cottage, which features images of life in Kiandra over the years.

The Kiandra Cemetery, near the ruins, is another attraction worth wandering through.

Kiandra has no main facilities or shops, but you will find toilet amenities.

During the January 2020 bushfires, the courthouse was burnt to the gorund, just the bricks remaining. It was rebuilt by the NPWS. © PHOTO: Steve Cuff / Snowy Mountains Magazine

There is a good chance you could see wild brumbies around the Kiandra region, especially driving between the courthouse and Long Plain Road to the north.

Wild brumbies near the side of the road in Kiandra. ©PHOTO: Steve Cuff / Snowy Mountains Magazine