Trail summary
Safety advice
This park is remote, so come well-prepared with appropriate clothing and equipment, and inform someone of your travel plans. Weather in the Snowy Mountains can change rapidly, with snow possible year-round. Walking notes, grades, and times apply to summer conditions only. Between June and October, the track is likely snowbound—carry snowshoes or cross-country skis and be ready to use them.
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.
You can also experience Guthega to Charlotte Pass Walk as part of Snowies Alpine Walk, a 56km multi-day hike that can be completed over 4 days.
- 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.
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
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1838 m
Min elevation: 1592 m
Total climbing: 453 m
Total descent: -248 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Jindabyne, Thredbo, Perisher Valley, Adaminaby, Khancoban
How to get to Kosciuszko National ParkGuthega 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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for hikes and trails in Kosciuszko National Park or nearby? Try these similar graded walks.
Track grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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 “Guthega to Charlotte Pass Walk (9km)”
The 9 km trail is well-maintained, with a good mix of natural surfaces and metal walkways, all while following the Snowy River most of the way. There’s a bit of an uphill stretch as you approach Charlotte Pass, especially in the final 400 metres, but nothing too tough. The scenery is beautiful, with alpine heathland, grasslands, and Snow Gum forests providing plenty of variety. I started early, which helped avoid the crowds, though the trail does get busier as you get closer to Charlotte Pass. Just a heads-up—there are no toilets at the Guthega trailhead during summer, but there are facilities at Charlotte Pass. Overall, it’s a great hike with rewarding views and a solid workout!