Pallaibo walking track in Kosciuszko National Park is a popular walk for fishing and picnicking by the river, birdwatching, or enjoying nature or wildlife photography. It can be completed as either a one-way walk (5.6km) or return route. Going in one direction, this lovely track begins at picturesque Sawpit Creek picnic area and finishes at Thredbo River picnic area. Most visitors arrange to be picked up from Thredbo River picnic area for convenience.
Follow your way through dry eucalypt forests, along Sawpit walking track, before continuing past the scenic Sawpit Falls and Charlie's Cascades. Keep your eyes peeled for the interesting wildlife you can spot along the way, including wood ducks, flame robins, crimson rosellas, Australian magpies, and wedge-tailed eagles. If you're lucky, you may even spot a platypus.
This is a great walk at any time of year. When the temperatures are high on the exposed higher altitude tracks in the park, don't worry; there's plenty of shelter and shade on this track.
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Getting to the trailhead: Kosciuszko National Park.
Pallaibo walking track starts at Sawpit Creek picnic area in the southern precinct of Kosciuszko National Park.To get there:Drive along Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne towards Perisher ValleyAfter crossing Thredbo River, the end of the walk is immediately on your left at Thredbo River picnic area.Continue to the starting point along Kosciuszko Road400m past Kosciuszko Education Centre, turn left into Kosciuszko Mountain Retreat.Take the first left down a short dirt road to reach the picnic area The picnic area can be accessed via a short paved walk from Kosciuszko Education Centre. 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 Sawpit Creek picnic area, Kosciuszko Education Centre and Thredbo River picnic area. Bus parking is available at the education 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.
Closest towns to this walk: Adaminaby, Cabramurra, Cooma, Crackenback, Dalgety, Jindabyne, Khancoban, Perisher Valley, Thredbo, Tumbarumba, Tumut
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Kosciuszko National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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
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.
