Pilot Wilderness mountain bike ride from Cascade Hut to Barry Way in Kosciuszko National Park is a long scenic trail that begins at Alpine Way at the Cascade trailhead and travels all the way through Pilot Wilderness Area.
Along the way, it follows several trails, including Cascade Hut trail, Ingeegoodbee trail and Nine Mile trail. Adrenaline junkies take note - there are sustained steep climbing sections on Bobs Ridge that will test your cardio fitness in a most enjoyable way.
If what you're after is a moderately difficult route with incredible views, turn around once you reach Cascade Hut. If you're fit, experienced, have a well-serviced bike and are looking for a challenging long day ride or overnight ride, continue on past Tin Mine Huts to Nine Mile trail. This steep section, which drops down 1000m over 5km, will take you to Pinch River campground at the junction of the Pinch and Snowy rivers. Most people tackle the ride north to south due to the drop in elevation.
This heart-pumping ride traverses a remote wilderness area with a diverse range of environments, taking you from the alpine areas of Thredbo Valley down through the montane forests of snow gum, mountain gum and alpine ash at the heart of Pilot Wilderness Area, and eventually dropping down to the native cypress pine and white box woodlands in Lower Snowy River Valley.
If you're riding a bike, please give way to walkers along this track.
It's a good idea to bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS.
Fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB from the Snowy Region Visitor Centre or Perisher Visitor Office.
The northern section of this route, between Alpine Way and Tin Mine Huts, can be snowbound during winter months (June-October). Snowdrifts on Bobs Ridge can extend through to December in a big snow year.
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.
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
To Cascade Trail carpark. Pilot Wilderness mountain bike ride is in the southern precinct of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there:From Snowy Region Visitor Centre:Drive 3km along Kosciuszko Road towards Perisher, then turn left at Alpine Way. The trackhead is 36.5km along Alpine Way, 5.5km past the Thredbo Village turn-off. Park entry points Cascade Trail carpark See on map 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. Roads can close in extreme weather, so it's a good idea to check weather and road conditions before setting out. Parking Parking is available nearby to the attraction at the Cascade trailhead on Alpine Way - please note that park use fees apply. Most people arrange a car shuttle or pick up from Pinch River campground on Barry Way, 60km from Jindabyne on a dirt road.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
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.
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.
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.
Looking for things to do in Kosciuszko National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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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.
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
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.
