Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 1643m
Min elevation: 1586m
Total Ascent: 249m
Hike overview
Illawong walk in Kosciuszko National Park, near Thredbo and Perisher, is a 6.5km return bushwalk where you can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking by the river, wildlife photography, or swimming in Snowy River.
Illawong walk is a gorgeous 5km return walk through Kosciuszko National Park. It begins in the charming Guthega Village and follows along Snowy River Valley through alpine heath and towering, majestic snow gums, all the way up to Illawong Hut, one of the oldest buildings still standing in the park.
Walk or swim in the cooling waters of Snowy River when the weather is hot, or picnic among the wildflowers of alpine mint, billy buttons, and native yam daisies, just to name a few.
If you're a keen birdwatcher be sure to pack your bincoculars. As well as the native birds you're likely to spot here, including crimson rosellas and gang gang cockatoos, you're also likely to see interesting native wildlife, including mountain and Kosciuszko thermocolour grasshoppers, wombats, and echidnas.
Tips
It's a good idea to bring a topographic map, compass and GPS.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
Gallery
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Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1643 m
Min elevation: 1586 m
Total climbing: 249 m
Total descent: -249 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Kosciuszko National Park.
To Guthega Village carpark. Illawong walk is in the subalpine and alpine precinct of Kosciuszko National Park.
To get there: Drive from Jindabyne along Kosciuszko Road towards Perisher. Turn off onto Guthega Road, which is sealed until you reach Guthega power station. From Guthega power station, continue straight ahead along an unsealed road for approximately 6.5kms to Guthega Village.
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 is available on Main Road, a short walk from the trackhead. It can be a busy place during holiday periods, so parking might be limited.
Closest towns to this walk: Adaminaby, Cabramurra, Cooma, Crackenback, Dalgety, Jindabyne, Khancoban, Perisher Valley, Thredbo, Tumbarumba, Tumut
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Kosciuszko National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
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.
Explore safe
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.
Packing checklists
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.
Let someone know
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
Suggest an edit
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.
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.
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