Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko is a 13km, grade 3 hike located in the Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 4.5 hrs to complete.
Hike overview
If you're visiting Kosciuszko National Park in the warmer months, a walk to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko is a must-do.
Starting at the top of the Kosciuszko Express chairlift at Thredbo, this popular day walk takes you to the rooftop of Australia. After the scenic chairlift ride, you'll travel past the rocky granite outcrops of Ramshead Range, and through alpine wildflowers (spring). Stop at the lookout for views of the country's highest mountain.
The track crosses the headwaters of the Snowy River, before climbing above Lake Cootapatamba and on to Rawson Pass. From here, it's a gradual climb to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko (2228m). The sweeping 3600 views across the Snowy Mountains and Victorian High Country are sure to wow you. Stay a while to soak in the fresh alpine air, pack a summit snack, and wallow in your sense of achievement, before returning along the track to Thredbo.
Take a virtual tour of Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Route and GPX file
If you have a GPX or KML file for this hike and are happy to share it, please upload your file here.
Tips
The track starts at the top of the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift, which runs 9am - 4.30pm and takes 15mins. For chairlift prices visit the Thredbo website.
You can also walk up Merritts Nature Track from Thredbo Village to the top of the chairlift. This difficult 4km track takes around 2-3 hours uphill.
It's a good idea to bring a topographic map, compass, and a GPS, and read our safety tips before you set out.
Fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB from the Snowy Region Visitor Centre.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Trail location
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Getting there
Kosciuszko walk begins at Thredbo Village in Kosciuszko National Park. From Jindabyne:Travel along the Kosciuszko Road and turn left onto Alpine WayTravel 31km along the Alpine Way and turn right into Thredbo VillageCatch the Kosciuszko Express chairlift to the start of the track Road quality All 2WD vehicles need to carry snow chains in winter, between June and October long weekends, on: Kosciuszko Road (to Perisher) Guthega Road Alpine Way between Thredbo and Tom Groggin Snow chains are recommended for all vehicles driving in the park, including 4WD and AWD, in the event of extreme weather. Read our snow driving in Kosciuszko tips. Parking Parking is available at Thredbo.
Gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
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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Gear to consider

My 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. Everyone, and every hike, is different, so customise your outdoor kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Let someone know
Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return. Fill in an online trip intentions form to privately send important details about your adventure to your emergency contact. They can then inform emergency services if you don’t return on time.
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.
0 Reviews on “Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko (13km)”
Zac Norris if you can walk…