Snow Gums boardwalk has one of the greatest - and most easily accessible - views in Kosciuszko National Park. Do you want to see Mount Kosciuszko and some of the country's other high peaks? They're right there in front of you. It's like you're in a grandstand.
The boardwalk starts at the Charlotte Pass turning circle and follows the tree line that separates the sub-alpine from the expansive alpine landscape. The snow gums you'll see here - some of them hundreds of years old - are dramatically twisted and stunted due to the blasting effects of wind, snow and ice. In spring, you'll see wildflowers such as yellow billy buttons, anemone buttercups and paper daises, blooming at ground level. There'll also likely be snowdrifts higher up, where there are no trees.
The winding boardwalk and lookout platforms are suitable for everyone, and informative signage along the way is a great introduction to the area's unique landscapes, plants and animals. Around 200m from Charlotte Pass lookout, steps lead up to a scenic viewing platform, a few more steps and you'll reach Main Range lookout, which spoils you with sweeping views across the magnificent Snowy Mountains. See if you can spot Mount Kosciuszko summit trail heading up to Rawson Pass, or Main Range walk as it crosses the Snowy River.
Take a virtual tour of Snow Gums boardwalk captured with Google Street View Trekker.
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.
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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.
Snow Gums boardwalk is in the Alpine precinct of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there:Drive along Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne.Go past the ski resorts of Smiggin Holes, Perisher Valley and Charlotte Pass Village to Charlotte Pass. 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 on Kosciuszko Road, a short walk from the start of Snow Gums boardwalk. Bus parking is available.
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.
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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