Discover the Snowy Mountains, where the earth meets the sky, and adventure beckons at every turn.
Embark on a breathtaking journey across the alpine roof of Australia with the newly opened Snowies Alpine Walk in the heart of Kosciuszko National Park. Nestled on the sacred Monero Ngarigo Country, this multifaceted trail promises an enchanting adventure where nature’s majesty unfurls over 56 kilometres, meandering through some of the most unique landscapes the Snowy Mountains have to offer.
PHOTO: Summiting Australia’s highest peak – Mount Kosciuszko, Rawsons Pass, Snowies Alpine Walk CREDIT: Remy Brand (DCCEEW).
Imagine climbing the iconic Mount Kosciuszko, the crown jewel of the Australian Alps, standing at a staggering 2,228 metres above sea level. It’s a bucket-list experience that culminates in panoramic vistas reaching far into the horizon. Yet, this epic four-day trek offers much more than a mountain summit. Each step unveils a rich tapestry of biodiversity, from ancient snow gums to vibrant wildflowers that dance across meadows during the warmer months.
PHOTO: Guthega to Charlottes Pass – A couple on a walk through the river valley CREDIT: Boen Ferguson (DPIE).
The Snowies Alpine Walk connects the picturesque alpine villages of Guthega, Perisher, Charlotte Pass, and Bullocks Flat, weaving new and existing paths into a singular, seamless adventure. Thanks to the collaborative effort supported by both the state and Commonwealth funds, over 27 kilometres of new walking track have been sculpted to withstand the alpine climate, featuring eco-friendly designs that minimise environmental impact while maximising scenic splendour.
Day 1 – Guthega Village marks the beginning of this invigorating expedition. As you leave the tranquillity of Guthega Pondage behind and trace the flow of the majestic Snowy River, keep an eye out for the Illawong Suspension Bridge, an engineering marvel poised at Australia’s highest elevation.
PHOTO: Illawong Suspension Bridge CREDIT: Daniel Parsons (DCCEEW).
The journey from Guthega to Charlotte Pass is a beautifully scenic introduction to the Snowies Alpine Walk. With its network of metal grating trails, this segment protects the fragile alpine ecosystem below as you venture towards the pristine Spencers Creek Suspension Bridge.
PHOTO: Eco friendly metal grate walking tracks on the Glacial Valleys and Ramsar Wetlands, Main Range walk, CREDIT: Remy Brand (DCCEEW).
Day two – perhaps the most challenging, but equally rewarding, lends itself to the grandeur of the Main Range loop. Crossing over glacial valleys and towering peaks, including the breathtaking Blue Lake, walkers are rewarded with stunning vistas and the opportunity to spot Australia’s unique alpine flora and fauna. As you conquer the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, take a moment to savour the views that stretch into the new horizons—a sublime reward for your efforts.
PHOTO: Blue Lake, Blue Lake lookout CREDIT: Remy Brand (DCCEEW).
Day 3 – The third day of the hike gently guides adventurers through the lush Charlotte Pass to Perisher Valley, an area steeped in natural beauty where snow gums stand sentinel over the landscape, and wildflowers paint the terrain in hues of yellows and purples. The views from Porcupine Rocks offer a sense of the immense scale of this alpine region, prompting a profound appreciation of the natural wonderland the Snowy Mountains represent.
PHOTO: Porcupine Rocks, CREDIT: Daniel Parsons (DCCEEW).
Day 4 – Finally, your journey concludes as you descend from Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat. This trail takes you alongside the serene Thredbo River and through subalpine meadows where mossy bogs and delicate ecosystems thrive. Raised platforms offer an eco-friendly vantage point, ensuring this treasured environment remains unharmed, while you bask in the rich beauty that unfolds around you. As you reach Bullocks Flat, pause to reflect on the journey—56 kilometres of awe-inspiring wilderness and personal triumph.
PHOTO: Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat, CREDIT: Daniel Parsons (DCCEEW).
For anyone looking for a deeper understanding of the landscape, guided tours are available, providing expert local knowledge that enriches the hiking experience.
Whether you choose to go it alone or with a guide, the Snowies Alpine Walk offers varied accommodation options, from the rustic charm of national parks lodges such as Creel Bay Cottages and Numbananga Lodge, to the intimate settings of nearby alpine villages. These choices ensure that each adventurer finds the comfort they need after a day of exhilarating exploration.
PHOTO: Creel Bay Cottages, CREDIT: Remy Brand (DCCEEW).
Available from December to April, this beautifully crafted hike is accessible to both beginners and seasoned hikers, inviting everyone to embrace the serene yet challenging environment of Australia’s alpine reaches.
As the Snowies Alpine Walk officially enjoys its first season in operation, it stands as a testament to sustainable tourism and an ode to the timeless allure of the Snowy Mountains.
Whether you’re a lover of nature, a seeker of adventure, or in pursuit of the beauty and solitude that only nature can offer, the Snowies Alpine Walk promises an unforgettable alpine experience that resonates long after the journey ends.