Guthega to Charlotte Pass Walk is a 9km, grade 3 one way hike located in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 3 hours to complete.
Warning
The walk is snowbound in winter, between June and October. Visitors can cross-country ski or snowshoe, but there are no snow poles marking the route.
Hike overview
Take in majestic views of Australia's highest peaks on the Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk, near Thredbo and Perisher. Follow the Snowy River and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Extending from and including the Illawong walk, Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk is an invigorating 9km day walk and an ideal addition to a multi-day bushwalking trip.
Winding through the Australian alps, the walk links Guthega Village and Charlotte Pass. Beginning at Guthega you'll follow the breathtaking Snowy River Valley and experience the full splendour of Kosciuszko National Park's sub-alpine landscape. With uninterrupted horizons and views onto the grandstand of the Main Range, you can fully immerse yourself in nature.
In late spring the mountains come to life as the rivers and creeks swell with snow melt, and the clear, icy water cascades in a mighty rush toward the low country. And as summer arrives, the high country is transformed into a kaleidoscopic carpet of wildflowers.
Look beyond the wonders of nature though, and you'll find a wealth of cultural highlights too. The walk offers the chance to learn about the ancestral land of the Monero Ngarigo People, as well as cross Spencers Creek on Australia's highest suspension bridge.
- Help protect the sensitive alpine environment. Stay on the track when walking and take all waste with you.
- Toilet facilities are available at Guthega and Charlotte Pass, but not at Illawong.
- There is no food or drinking water available at Guthega, Charlotte Pass or Illawong, so make sure to bring your own.
- Local shuttle operators are available to provide transport options to and from Guthega and Charlotte Pass. Contact a local Visitor Centre for more information.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 1838 m
Min elevation: 1592 m
Total climbing: 453 m
Total descent: -248 m
Tips
The walk is snowbound in winter, between June and October. Visitors can cross-country ski or snowshoe, but there are no snow poles marking the route. Private vehicle access is closed between Perisher and Charlotte Pass in winter, though the route is passable on skis or can be booked with a local transport operator. Park entry fees apply
Trail location
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Getting there
Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk is in the Thredbo-Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park. You can start the walk from either Guthega or Charlotte Pass.
To get to Guthega: Drive from Jindabyne along Kosciuszko Road towards Perisher. Turn off onto Guthega Road which is sealed until you reach Guthega power station. From Guthega power station, continue straight ahead along an unsealed road for around 6.5km to Guthega Village. Park your car at the Guthega Centre and follow the signs to the Guthega walk.
To get to Charlotte Pass: Drive along Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne. Go past the ski resorts of Smiggin Holes, Perisher Valley and Charlotte Pass Village to Charlotte Pass.
In winter, you must park your car at Perisher and proceed to Guthega or Charlotte Pass with a local transport operator. Visit the NSW National Parks website for more information.
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.