Snow gums and wildflowers: Local plants bring the mountains to life as you go on your Snowies Alpine Walk in the Kosciuszko National Park. Photos: Supplied.
The exhilaration is palpable on an epic journey across the alpine roof of Australia. Beholding majestic mountains not only stirs up feelings of wonder and appreciation, but being in their midst also brings us joy, satisfaction and a heightened sense of achievement.
Going on an alpine 56-kilometre, multi-day walk in the Kosciuszko National Park, NSW, proves there’s more to the Snowies than just skiing. You will climb Australia’s highest mountain, wander through wildflower meadows and trek through glacier-carved landscapes and snow gum forests.
Australia’s highest walking trail is now open following a six-year development in the park, a five-hour drive from Sydney and just over two hours from Canberra. The new walk traverses picturesque high-country wilderness on Monero Ngarigo Country, linking the alpine villages of Guthega, Charlotte Pass, Perisher and Bullocks Flat.
Seeking guidance, the Snowy Region Visitor Centre in Jindabyne is a welcome stop on the drive from the nation’s capital before entering the park. While there were plenty of brochures to help plan our Kosciuszko adventure, it was even more beneficial speaking with cooperative staff.
Mount Kosciuszko: Climbing Australia’s highest mountain is a bucket-list experience.
“These alpine walks are accessible from December to April, and this is the recommended timeframe,” Sue said. “There have been times when we have had snowfalls in May … certainly snowfalls can be heavy by the June long weekend.
“It is essential that you regularly check weather forecasts and we advise you carry warm gear with you. We can help with accommodation in or around the park, advise on the best things to see and do while you’re in the Snowy Mountains and the latest conditions or closures.”
While at the centre, you can also pick up a national parks pass that covers entry fees into Kosciuszko, and topographic maps and personal locator beacon hire. It’s quite an education to learn more about the landscape, history, Aboriginal heritage and wildlife. What does the walk offer?
Snow gums and wildflowers: Mountains bring the drama, but local plants bring the mountains to life. Snow gums are easy to spot, with their twisted limbs. The landscape is coloured with wildflowers like snow daisies, yellow billy buttons and the anemone buttercup found only in Kosciuszko National Park.
Mount Kosciuszko ascent: Climbing Mount Kosciuszko is a bucket-list experience. At 2228 m above sea level, it’s Australia’s highest mountain. While steep sections make it challenging, you can walk right to the top. One reward is a 360-degree outlook of endless mountains with views as far as Victoria and towards the NSW South Coast.
Unique alpine landscapes: Kosciuszko National Park covers a large part of mainland Australia’s only true alpine landscape. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it’s recognised for its biodiversity and unique natural beauty. You’ll also pass Ramsar-listed Blue Lake, a rare type of glacial lake that’s home to threatened species like mountain pygmy possums and alpine tree frogs, and an important site for migratory birds.
Alpine landscapes: Kosciuszko National Park covers a large part of mainland Australia’s only true alpine landscape.
Alternatively, visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) website to plan a walk. Use its self-guided itinerary to inspire your own Snowies Alpine Walk adventure. This involves travel to and from the walking track each day and staying at National Parks accommodation, campgrounds or looking to options nearby.
The four-day, three-night journey showcases Australia’s unique alpine landscape, with highlights including crossing the Snowy River on Australia’s highest suspension bridge, reaching the mainland’s highest peak and discovering ancient snow gum forests and wildflower meadows.
Detailed NPWS track notes offer some valuable insights.
Day 1 – Guthega to Charlotte Pass, nine kilometres. Follow the iconic Snowy River with views of the Main Range as your backdrop. Cross Australia’s highest suspension bridge over Spencers Creek.
Day 2 – Main Range, 22 km. It’s challenging, but filled with great adventure as you summit Mount Kosciuszko and climb to see views of Blue Lake before heading past historic Seamans Hug to finish the Main Range loop.
Day 3 – Charlotte Pass Village to Perisher Valley, 12.7 km. Walk through varied alpine landscapes linking towns at Charlotte Pass Village and Perisher Valley, and see wildflowers, wombats and echidnas.
Day 4 – Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat, 12 km. The perfect Snowy Mountains encore with moody alpine ash forests, mossy alpine bogs, lush woodlands, and the walk along the Thredbo River.
Being in the mountains is good for us because it allows us to connect with nature, reduce stress and instil self-confidence that’s beyond comprehension!
