Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk is a 18.6km, grade 3 hike located in the Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 7 hrs to complete.
Hike overview
This summer track is popular with nature loving hikers and mountain bikers keen for an outdoor adventure. Set out along the old road to Mount Kosciuszko, and have your camera ready for the glorious views of Australia's highest mountains, historic huts, weathered snow gums and rock formations on the way. Admire amazing displays of wildflowers including marsh marigolds, silver snow daisies, mountain roses, and buttercups in early summer.
Around 4.5km from Charlotte Pass the Snowy River offers a scenic spot for a picnic. Cross the river and continue your walk or ride as the track winds slowly up to Seaman's Hut, which was built in 1929, before carrying on to Rawson Pass. If riding, leave your bike at Rawson Pass (bike stands are available) and walk the 1.4km to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko (2228m).
Return to Charlotte Pass along the same track. If you're after a challenge and come well-equipped, combine this walk with the longer Main Range walk, or join the Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko walk. Take a virtual tour of Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
The track from Rawson Pass to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko is accessible by foot only.
Mountain bikes and fat bikes are permitted only between Charlotte Pass and Rawson Pass, where there are bike stands. Riders please give way to walkers.
It's a good idea to bring a topographic map, compass and GPS, and read our alpine safety tips before you set out.
Fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB from the Snowy Region Visitor Centre or Perisher NPWS office.
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
Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk starts from Charlotte Pass, in the alpine precinct of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there:Drive along Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne, following the signs to Perisher and Charlotte PassContinue past the ski resorts of Smiggin Holes and Perisher ValleyCharlotte Pass Village is around 40km from Jindabyne and will take you around 30mins to drive thereThe road between Perisher and Charlotte Pass is closed during winter 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. Check the weather before you set out as the road to Charlotte Pass can become covered in snow and ice. Parking Parking is available near the trackhead on Kosciuszko Road. Bus parking is available. It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking may be limited.
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

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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.