Trail Fast Facts
Hike Overview
Day 1: Drive to Cooinbal Hut, about 6 hour from Sydney.
It's best to go via Tumut where you can stock up on some last minute fresh groceries. The best maps are Rules Point 8626-4S and Peppercorn 8626-4N. Camp the first night in the hut.
Day 2: Cooinbal Hut to Blue Waterholes is about 14km
Follow the brumby trails from behind the hut around the wooded hill. Go up over the saddle (463 567) then drop down to Harris Hut. It's only old ruins but a good spot the stop for lunch. From here, you can either follow the fire trail to Blue Waterholes via Bill Jones Hut, or cross the fire trail to the creek. Follow the creek to (509 563), there are a few horse trails, to Murray's Cave. After exploring the caves, it's a short distance to the campground where you can have a wash in the creek, but be warned the water very cold.
Day 3: Blue Waterholes to Pockets Hut 6km
From Blue Waterholes to Pockets Hut it's an easy walk along the fire trail, or you could spend the day exploring Coolamine Homestead or downstream to the waterfall (take your crocs and gaiters). Blue Waterholes to Pockets Hut is about 6km. Alternatively to save a day, you could walk directly to Old Currango via Bill Jones Hut, about 13km. Stop at Bill Jones for morning tea and lunch at (513 514)
Day 4: Pockets Hut to Old Currango is about 6km
Best to stay up high around the tree line and avoid the marsh. If you are feeling fit, climb over Howells Peak for some spectacular views. Join the fire trail on the other side and you can almost see Old Currango. There are spectacular views across the plain with wild brumbies.
Day 5: Old Currango to Cooinbal Hut via Skaines Mountain is about 12km, and require some good navigations skills.
Follow the fire trail back to the junction of the fire trail from Bill Jones/Blue Waterholes. Turn left and walk up hill. When you get to the top (Harrys Gap) you will need to head off trail (475 527) heading NW. Cross the creek at (465 534) and bush bash up Skaines Mountain. Just head uphill. The going is easier on the west side as there are a few brumby trails. This is a good spot for lunch and you may get some mobile reception. Continue NNW back to Cooibal Hut, you will need to take a bearing and follow your compass. The going can be a bit tough at times.
Track Grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Kosciuszko National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? 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
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.
Weather
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.
