Set out along this moderate walk from the Perisher Valley reservoir carpark, a short detour from Kosciuszko Road.
The formed walking track follows Rock Creek before steadily climbing through open woodland to around 1900m - the beginning of the alpine zone. As you get higher, wet heath and alpine mint bush give way to hardy snowgrass, snow gums and rock boulders.
Continue straight at the junctions with Link track and Wheatley Link track and follow the Porcupine walk signs uphill to a broad gap. You'll be treated to panoramic views of the Main Range. The track bends left and scrambles over rocks to reach the large outcrop of granite boulders on the ridge, known as Porcupine Rocks. From here, you can enjoy spectacular views to Thredbo River Valley and Bullocks Flat below and back to Perisher and the Main Range.
Come in early summer to enjoy seasonal wildflowers like yellow paper daisies, billy buttons, or purple flowering heath along the early section of the walk. Kids can try the free Porcupine track kids quest app, which has 7 challenges that reveal fascinating finds along the track.
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.
In winter, this track is blanketed in snow and forms part of the popular Perisher Range cross-country ski trails. You can also snowshoe along Rock Creek.
Please take extreme care if you choose to climb Porcupine Rocks. Rocks can shift and may be slippery, and there's a sheer drop.
Guided flower and photo tours often run in summer.
Check the weather before you set out as walking tracks can close in poor weather. This track is exposed so be prepared for high UV and changeable conditions.
It's a good idea to bring a topographic map, compass and GPS in case of poor visibility or snow cover.
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.
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Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting to the trailhead: Kosciuszko National Park.
Porcupine walk is in the Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there from Jindabyne:Drive 33km along Kosciuszko Road to Perisher Valley.After 400m take the first left after the Man from Snowy River Hotel.Then take the first right and follow the road until you reach the gravel carpark at the Perisher Valley Reservoir. Winter road access Kosciuszko Road is closed between Perisher and Charlotte Pass from June to October long weekends. 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. Sealed roads Vehicle access 2WD vehicles Weather restrictions Snow chains required after snow Parking Parking is available at the reservoir carpark.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: 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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