Bushwalking and hiking in the Snowy Mountains

Mount Kosciuszko

Kosciuszko National Park is home to Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. You can walk to the summit from both Thredbo and Charlotte Pass. The quickest walk to the top begins with the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift in Thredbo.  

Thredbo hiking at sunrise, Mt Kosciuszko National Park - Credit: Thredbo

The scenic ride takes you to the Kosciuszko walk, which winds past granite outcrops and wildflowers, across the Snowy River’s headwaters and above Australia’s highest lake to Rawson Pass. From here it’s a gradual climb to the peak, standing at 2,228 metres. 

The longer summit walk begins in Charlotte Pass, and takes six to eight hours return. In winter the walk is snowbound and unmarked, but you can cross-country ski or snowshoe the route.  

Backcountry, Kosciuszko National Park

Experienced hikers can take the more challenging Main Range Track, a 22km loop which passes glacial lakes and historic huts to reach the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, before returning to Charlotte Pass. You can also split the walk over a few days and camp in the back country. 

Bushwalking and Hiking in the Snowy Mountains, Kosciuszko National Park

Guided walking tours are available too, offering various levels of adventure. You can join a guided walk to the top of Mount Kosciuszko with K7 Adventures and Mt Kosciuszko Walks.  

December through March is recommended as the best time for walking and hiking in the Snowies. Be sure to read these bushwalking safety tips before you depart. 

Tumut River Walk, Tumut

Tumut area

On the Wiradjuri Aboriginal Cultural Tour in the Tumut region you’ll learn about indigenous connections to the striking landscapes, the Dreaming and bush tucker. Near the amazing Yarrangobilly Caves (reopening April 2020) are more walks and a natural thermal pool ideal for a rejuvenating dip.

Tumut, Kosciuszko National Park

Cooma area

On the eastern side of Australia’s highest mountains is the Cooma region, where the Cascades Walking Track leads to splendid views of the Tuross River. The Tuross Falls walking track in Wadbilliga National Park will take you to a platform with fabulous views of a tumbling waterfall and beyond.

Cascades Walking Track, Ebor - Credit: L Burke