Main Range walk is a 22km, grade 4 hike located in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 8 hours to complete.
Hike overview
This spectacular, long alpine track is suited to adventurous hikers eager to explore some the highest reaches of Kosciuszko National Park on foot.
Set out from Charlotte's Pass on the 22km track, which takes you through the glacier-carved landscapes of this protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You'll cross the fabled Snowy River, journey past Hedley Tarn and Blue Lake, and be dazzled by wildflower meadows in early summer. Then it's high up along the rugged Main Range to the very rooftop of Australia, Mount Kosciuszko (2228m), where the views across the Australian Alps stretch as far as the eye can see.
From here, the track loops back to Charlotte's Pass via the Mount Kosciuszko Summit trail. If you're well-equipped, and prepared for an overnight back country camping, the walk can be spread over a couple of days.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
It's a good idea to bring a topographic map, compass and GPS.
Fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB from the Snowy Region Visitor Centre or Perisher NPWS office.
Weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable. Come well-prepared for your visit and read our alpine safety tips before you set out.
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
Main Range walking track is in the Alpine precinct of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there:Drive along Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne past the ski resorts of Smiggin Holes, Perisher Valley and Charlotte Pass Village 40km to Charlotte Pass.Parking outside the 20-minute only area 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 Street parking is available nearby to the trackhead on Kosciuszko Road. Bus parking is also available.
Access conditions
- 2WD Access
- 4WD Access
- Public Transport
- Bitumen Road
- Gravel Road
- Speed Bumps
- Accessible Parking
- Picnic Shelter
- Campfire Pit
- Camping Area
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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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.
3 Reviews on “Main Range Walking Track (22km)”
Alexander Ross keen?
Jessica Cunningham
David Scallion… road trip stop over!
Even better as an overnighter so you can take your time, explore and sleep under the stars
Shamali Junior this is what we gonna do.
Troy Reddick
Deb West – we’ll leave earlier so we dont have to run at the end ?
Rohan Hain
Marieke O’Halloran very timely! ?