Australia's 16 Highest Peaks is a 50km, grade 4 hike located in the Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 3-4 days to complete.
Warning
Australia's 16 Highest Peaks are snowbound in winter, between June and October. In winter, this hike is graded as a grade 5 hike and should only be undertaken by those experienced in wilderness navigation and snow camping. Weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable.
Hike overview
The highest mountains on the Australian mainland are in the Snowy Mountains region in New South Wales and the Victorian Alps which are part of the Great Dividing Range separating the central lowlands from the eastern highlands.
Imagine standing atop Mount Kosciuszko, Australia's highest peak, with 15 of Australia's highest peaks rising all around you. This is the reality that awaits on the Australia's 16 Highest Peaks Circuit, a 50km epic nestled within the breathtaking Kosciuszko National Park.
Forget trekking across vast distances – here, all of Australia's 16 Highest huddle within a tantalising 12km radius, offering a challenge unlike any other. This Grade 4 adventure, starting and finishing at Charlotte Pass, will have you weaving through stunning alpine landscapes for 3-4 unforgettable days.
While you'll follow established trails like the Main Range Track and Summit Walk for most of the way, be prepared to embrace the spirit of adventure. Many summits demand off-trail detours, where basic map and compass skills become your guide. For an extra layer of safety, consider joining an experienced friend, especially since unpredictable weather can make things wild and push this challenging hike to Grade 5 level (especially in winter).
But the rewards are worth every step. Imagine standing atop each peak. Feel the exhilaration of summiting not just one, but all 16 of Australia's highest points!
This is more than just a hike; it's an exhilarating experience to the heart of Australia's mountain soul. So lace up your boots, study your maps, and let the spirit of the mountains guide you. Just remember, winter (June-October) transforms this Grade 4 hike into a Grade 5 challenge reserved for experienced wilderness navigators and snow campers. Be prepared for extreme and unpredictable weather.
Are you ready to claim your alpine crown? The Australia's 16 Highest Peaks Circuit awaits.
Suggested Itinerary
I recommend commencing this hike at Charlotte Pass, where you can leave your vehicle, and hike in an anti-clockwise direction.
If you are planning on undertaking this as a three day hike I would recommend camping in the following locations. Please also refer to the map below.
- Day 1 (~21km): Camp on the saddle between Mount Northcote and Muellers Peak. There is a reliable water source in the valley to the north of this saddle. This location can get windy so be sure to pitch your tent where you will be most sheltered from the wind. (marked with red dot on map below)
- Day 2 (~18km). On the plateau to the northern side of North Rams Head. This is a large flat area with a shallow creek and provides rewarding sunset viewing as the light falls onto North Rams Head. (marked with red dot on map below)
- Day 3 (11km). Return to Charlotte Pass
Australia's Highest Peaks
There are two ways to look at Australia's highest summits: by absolute elevation or by topographic prominence.
By absolute elevation (in order of travel):
- Mount Twynam: 2,195 meters
- Little Twynam: 2,120 meters
- Watsons Crags/Tennison Woods Knoll: 2,136 meters
- Carruthers Peak: 2,145 meters
- Mount Lee: 2,100 meters
- Mount Northcote: 2,131 meters
- Mount Clark: 2,100 meters
- Muellers Peak: 2,129 meters
- Alice Rawson Peak: 2,160 meters
- Mount Townsend: 2,209 meters
- Abbott Peak: 2,145 metres
- Byatts Camp/Mount DuFaur: 2,159 meters
- Mount Kosciuszko: 2,228 meters
- Etheridge Ridge: 2,180 meters
- Rams Head: 2,190 meters
- Rams Head North: 2,177 meters
Note: In producing a list of highest mountains, there is always subjective debate over what should and should not be included. Some peaks may have local names that are unknown to state authorities or map producers. Often questions arise as to whether a peak is a separate mountain or part of a ridge. Source: Geoscience Australia National Geodetic database, 1993, combined with the National Gazetteer of Australia.
Maps and Weather
The hike is all above the tree line and does not offer much protection from the elements. Check current conditions with the Bureau of Meteorology
Note: This hike is a variation of Australia's 11 Highest Peaks Route. They follow virtually the same route with a couple of extra peaks.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 2222 m
Min elevation: 1720 m
Total climbing: 2424 m
Total descent: -2424 m
Trail features
- Timber Boardwalk
- Rough Trail
- Well Marked Trail
- Undefined Trail
- Trail Running
- Lakes
- Alpine Region
- Exposed Ledges
- Rock Scrambling
- Off Trail
- River Crossings
- Scenic Viewpoints
- Untreated Water
- Overnight Campsites
Tips
- The route can be taken either clockwise or anticlockwise and features a combination of trail, off trail and (depending on the time of year) snow.
- Once having left Charlotte's Pass there is nowhere to refuel on route however there are an abundance of rivers and streams which serve as a reliable water source.
- The hike is all above the tree line and does not offer much protection from the elements. Check current conditions with the Bureau of Meteorology
Trail location
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Getting there
From Sydney Charlotte Pass is 6 hours drive via the Hume highway and for Melbourne its 6 hours.The drive is like going to Perisher except you have to park at Perisher .For day trips to Charlotte Pass parking is at Perisher Ski Resort for over night stays parking is at Bullocks Flay. The road to Charlottes Pass from Perisher is closed during winter
From Jindabyne you simply follow the Kosciuszko Road out of Jindabyne towards Perisher.
About the region
Kosciuszko National Park spoils you with snow sports, walks and mountain biking in the Snowy Mountains. Go camping, explore caves, climb Australia's highest mountain, or stay in heritage accommodation. There are 7 areas in this park:
1. Thredbo-Perisher area is your gateway to Mount Kosciuszko. Find NSW's favourite ski resorts, top alpine hikes, mountain bike trails, and endless adventures in the Snowy Mountains.
2. The Lower Snowy River area embraces the wild south of Kosciuszko National Park. Camp by the Snowy River and explore the scenic trails on a walk, bike or horse ride.
3. Khancoban area is the western gateway to Kosciuszko National Park. Discover Geehi and Tom Groggin's camp spots, fishing, and riding. Marvel at the Western Fall views or explore huts and hikes in the Jagungal Wilderness.
4. The Selwyn area is your perfect base to explore the walks, rides, and top fishing spots of central Kosciuszko National Park. Selwyn Snow Resort and historic Kiandra are closed due to severe fire damage.
5. The Yarrangobilly area is a highlight of northern Kosciuszko National Park. Explore jaw-dropping caves on a guided tour and swim in the thermal pool. Stay at historic Caves House and enjoy the walks and wildlife.
6. The Tumut area is your launch pad into northern Kosciuszko National Park. Discover water sports and wildlife at Blowering Reservoir. Camp and explore hidden walks and waterfalls in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains.
7. The High Plains area spoils you with summer walks, horse rides and bike trails to mountain huts, caves, and gorges. Camp, stay in Currango's heritage cottages, and discover Kosciuszko's wild north-east corner.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
1 Review on “Australia's 16 Highest Peaks”
This is a fantastic hike. My wife and I didn’t this over three days but could have easily made it four. Such a stunning location to explore.