Length: 22km
Duration: 8hrs
Grade: 4
Style: Circuit
Start: -36.4201112178797, 148.281510000001
End: -36.4201112178797, 148.281510000001

Location: Kosciuszko National Park
Closest Town:
Distance from CBD: --
State: NSW
Latitude: -36.42011122
Longitude: 148.28151

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Kosciuszko National Park...

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Main Range walk is a 22km, grade 4 circuit hike, located in the Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take approximately 8hrs to complete.

Hike Summary

This spectacular, long alpine track is suited to adventurous hikers eager to explore some the highest reaches of Kosciuszko National Park on foot.
Set out from Charlotte's Pass on the 22km track, which takes you through the glacier-carved landscapes of this protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You'll cross the fabled Snowy River, journey past Hedley Tarn and Blue Lake, and be dazzled by wildflower meadows in early summer. Then it's high up along the rugged Main Range to the very rooftop of Australia, Mount Kosciuszko (2228m), where the views across the Australian Alps stretch as far as the eye can see.
From here, the track loops back to Charlotte's Pass via the Mount Kosciuszko Summit trail. If you're well-equipped, and prepared for an overnight back country camping, the walk can be spread over a couple of days.

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, 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.

Getting there

Main Range walking track is in the Alpine precinct of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there:Drive along Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne past the ski resorts of Smiggin Holes, Perisher Valley and Charlotte Pass Village 40km to Charlotte Pass.Parking outside the 20-minute only area 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 Street parking is available nearby to the trackhead on Kosciuszko Road. Bus parking is also available.

Tips

It's a good idea to bring a topographic map, compass and GPS.
Fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB from the Snowy Region Visitor Centre or Perisher NPWS office.
Weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable. Come well-prepared for your visit and read our alpine safety tips before you set out.

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.