Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek

Download & Print Map and Notes

2 Days

25.8 km One way

1364 m

Experienced only

This great overnight walk explores the Kosciusko National Park between Guthega and Thredbo, visiting some fantastic sights along the way like the Snowy River, Blue Lake and Mt Twynam, Lake Albina and Mt Kosiuszko. The Wilkinsons Creek camping area is a nice place to stop and reflect as the sun sets. There is even a chance for a bite to eat at Australia's highest restaurant, at the top of the chair lift.

* This walk passes through very remote areas and sections have no visible track. At least one person in your group should have training and experience in off track walking and navigation. Even with these notes and a GPS these extra skills and equipment are required.

Guthega Pondage looking along Blue Cow creek arm

Following the track on the eastern side of the Snowy River

Sign post at the Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks

Looking over Club Lake from Carruthers Peak

Looking west from the side of Carruthers Peak

Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko walk

The top of Australia - Mt Kosckiuszko summit

Top of the Kosciuszko Walk metal walkway

Near the top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

Looking down to Thredbo from the chairlift

Covered in snow part of the year

This walk leads through an extreme alpine environment and all walkers must be well prepared. During summer, be prepared for both very hot and cold weather, high winds, rain, snow, extreme UV levels and some sections of snow or ice on the ground. Before starting this walk, check advice with Snowy Region Visitor Information Centre (02) 6450 5600, the weather forecast and the snow conditions then change your plans as needed. These notes, grades and walking times have been written for use in the summer months only. Between May and the end of October, this walk is likely to be covered in snow/ice, visitors should be carrying and be prepared to use snowshoes or cross country skis. When there is a chance of significant snow on the ground, visitors will need particularly strong navigation and snowcraft skills - tracks and signage may not be visible. For most visitors, it is best to consider this walk closed during the colder months.

Guthega

Guthega is a relatively small township, north of Perisher, and comprises mostly of hotel and lodge-style buildings. The most popular service in town is the Guthega Alpine Inn, open year round. The town is remote and access is by an all-weather dirt road. There are great views over the main range and the Guthega Pondage (part of the Snowy River Scheme). Guthega offers a great place to ski in winter, and to holiday in summer. In summer, there is plenty of walking, mountain biking, fishing and relaxing to be done. Walkers please note - there is no public water supply in the township, please fill water bottle before coming (or be willing treat and use the creek water).

Guthega Alpine Inn

Guthega Alpine Inn is on Guthega Road, about 500 metres past the base of the chairlift and 'Guthega Centre'. The hotel provides a year-round service including accommodation and meals. The hosts are friendly and the hotel provides a great base for walkers and other holiday makers. Please phone and book ahead for meals and accommodation. Phone 02 6457 5383 More info.

(0km) Car park below Guthega Alpine Inn → Int. of Guthega road servicetrail and Flying fox track

480 m

10 mins

-34m Moderate track

From the car park (just below Guthega Alpine Inn, on Guthega Rd, 500m past the Guthega Centre), the walk follows the concrete road down the hill, keeping the main valley to the left. The road passes a small stone building and light post, just before coming to an intersection with another road heading off to the left, below the building named 'Toibunga'.
Turn sharp left: From the intersection, the walk follows the concrete road down the hill towards the dam. After about 100m, the track veers right at another intersection, following the lower track. The concrete track turns to the right, but this walk continues straight, onto the wide dirt management trail (between the small boulders). Soon the trail bends right and comes to an intersection with a bush track.

(0km) Int. of Guthega road servicetrail and Flying fox track → Flying Fox

330 m

9 mins

15m

-44m Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, the walk heads between the boulders and is fairly flat initially, then, near a snow gum, the track steps down steeply and then winds down the hill to a 'T' intersection above Blue Cow Creek. (There is broken glass along this section of track, left over from Snowy River Scheme Camps).
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk initially steps over a small, eroded gap in the track[1] and then heads upstream alongside Blue Cow Creek, keeping the creek to your right. Before long, the track comes closer to the creek, and reaches a rocky crossing with a bridge[2] and a flying fox[3] over the creek.

Flying Fox

This metal flying fox was put in place to provide a safer option for crossing Blue Cow Creek when the water rises over the rocks. There are many flying foxes in the area to help people cross creeks, especially useful during snow melt when water is cold, deep and fast-moving. In 2010, a metal bridge was installed over this creek, parallel to the flying fox, and the bridge is now the safest way to cross.

(1km) Blue Cow Creek crossing → Illawong Lodge

2.2 km

50 mins

129m

-87m Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk crosses the creek on the bridge[4] next to the metal flying fox[5]. The walk then follows the bush track on the other side as it climbs to the top of the ridge. From the top of the hill, the track then winds down towards the Snowy River then turns left and generally follows it upstream. Soon the walk crosses a small creek and continues up the other side, undulating through the valley, crossing several more small creeks. The track winds left, away from the Snowy River, to climb the short hill to Illawong Lodge.

Illawong Lodge

In 1956, the year after the Guthega Dam was first filled, the Kosciuszko State Park Trust gave permission for the conversion of the then-dilapidated hut into the present simple lodge. The lodge is maintained by members of Illawong Ski Tourers and friends. The nearby suspension bridge over the Snowy River and the flying fox over Farm Creek were built by members of Illawong. NPWS now maintains the suspension bridge and a new bridge over Farm Creek which has replaced the flying fox. The lodge can be reserved by members of the general public - see illawong.asn.au. There is also a small emergency shelter in the base of the hut, on the western wall, with enough room for a few people to see out a blizzard, with some water, blankets and other emergency supplies. More info.

(3km) Illawong Lodge → Suspension bridge

160 m

4 mins

-28m Moderate track

Turn right: From the west side of Illawong Lodge (where the emergency shelter is located), the walk heads down towards the creek following the bush track. The track winds through scrub, passing through a grass clearing along the way. The walk soon comes to a cable suspension bridge.

Suspension Bridge

Constructed and maintained by Illawong Ski Tourers, and only a stone's throw from Illawong Lodge, this cable suspension bridge provides a safer way to cross the upper Snowy River. This provides the main access between Guthega and the Main Range. The bridge also provides great views of the valley.

(3km) Suspension bridge → Pounds Creek flats

2.6 km

1 hr 13 mins climb

342m

0m Experienced only

Continue straight: From the suspension bridge, this walk crosses the Snowy River to the west bank and climbs the hill, tending to the left of the top of the hill, and continuing up through the thick scrub. This section of the walk their is not track please fan out and minimse your impact. The walk winds up the ridge line through some more shallow scrub, passing through a thin tree line. The walk continues around to the left side of the ridge, where it gets much steeper, staying high out of the gully (which is to your left). The walk continues to the top of the ridge where it is much rockier, next to the large flats near the headwaters for Pounds Creek.

Pounds Creek Flats

Located in the far upper reaches of Pounds Creek, this large flat area on the side of the ridge makes a great place to camp. The plateau forms a shallow hanging swamp in the few months after winter, when the snow melts and pools in the area. This campsite is flat and sheltered from the wind by the mountain. Water supply from the creek is unreliable.

(6km) Pounds Creek flats → Twynam saddle

1.1 km

29 mins

131m

0m Experienced only

Veer left: From the flats, this walk heads south-west, following the ridge line that runs up the steep hill. The walk winds up and around the left side of the flats towards Little Twynam, bending around to the right as it approaches the top, then climbing up into the saddle between Little Twynam and Mt Twynam.

(7km) Twynam saddle → Mt Twynam

580 m

13 mins

97m

0m Experienced only

Turn right: From the saddle, this walk heads north up the grassy hill towards Mt Twynam, climbing up the steep hill and winding through rocky outcrops. The walk turns to the north-west and continuing up to the trig station at the top of Mt Twynam.

Mt Twynam

Mt Twynam is the largest peak on the ridgeline that winds around behind Blue Lake. It was once the location of a trig station, which was used for navigation until it was taken down. The metal frame, which was the lower half of the station, still sits on the peak today.

(7km) Mt Twynam → Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks

2.9 km

1 hr 1 mins climb

26m

-166m Experienced only

Continue straight: From the top of the mountain, this walk heads north-west, away from Little Twynam. The walk winds down through the rocky outcrops onto the ridge line, where it meets the old management trail and follows it west along the ridge line. The trail heads anticlockwise around Blue Lake until coming around to the south. The walk continues down and along the trail until coming to the right-hand side of the last knoll.
Continue straight: From near the top of the hill, the walk follows the old 4WD trail south-west, down along the ridge line. At the end of the ridge, the trail winds down the steep, grassy hill into the saddle and around behind a signpost to the intersection with the Main Range track.

(10km) Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks → Carruthers Peak

860 m

18 mins

99m

-2m Hard track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Main Range Track' sign[8] across the saddle then uphill along the clear track. The track winds up along the ridge and in time comes to a rocky clearing on the eastern side of Carruthers Peak[9] (where a short detour will reveal views down to Club Lake). Here the walk bends right and follows the clear track as it winds up the hill[10] to the views at the top of Carruthers Peak[11].

Carruthers Peak

Carruthers Peak is a prominent mountain that is found along the Main Range track, from which you can see great views down over Club Lake and out across the valley to Charlotte Pass. Carruthers Peak was named after the NSW Minister for Lands and Premier, Joseph Carruthers. This name was given in 1991 by Richard Helms, who had previously named it Crummer.

(11km) Carruthers Peak → Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons Creek track

4.4 km

1 hr 33 mins climb

108m

-242m Hard track

Continue straight: From the top of Carruthers Peak, this walk follows the clear track west as it winds down the ridge[12]. After about 50m, the track passes an 'I30' survey marker[13] (more good views) where the track bends left and follows the stone path and steps down the hill[14]. At the end of the stone path, the track bends left and heads down the hill[15], over a few lengths of metal grate[16] and comes to a saddle with good views down to Club Lake[17] (on your left). The walk then continues across the saddle, following the clear track to soon pass the 'Rarest Alpine Plant Community' information sign[18]. Heading around the side of the hill (keeping the valley to your right), the walk then comes to another rocky saddle[19]. About 320m beyond this saddle, this track leads to a very faint intersection where the ridge[20] (that leads to the northern end of Albina Lake) on the right meets the main track.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the gravel Main Range track south, keeping the valley and Albina Lake to your right. The track heads downhill[21] and then winds around beside a rocky saddle (a short side trip to the left over the small rise reveals some views into the valley). This walk continues along the clear track as it traverses fairly gently around the side of the very steep hill. In a few places, the track has been cut into the rock[22] and provides great views down into the Albina Lake - take care not to slip. The walk continues to another large saddle and just as the track starts to dip down past the saddle, the track comes to a faint intersection with an old management trail[23] (leading to Lake Albina, on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the rock-paved Main Range track south[24]. The track steadily winds around the side of the hill (keeping the large valley to your left). After heading between a rocky outcrop[25], the track becomes gravel[26] and starts to head over the ridge before gently winding down the hill. Just before flattening out on the large saddle, the track comes to a faint intersection (with the Muellers Peak and Mt Townsend tracks on your right) marked with a rock cairn[27] (on your right).
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads south along the main track to the low point in the saddle[28] (where there is a faint intersection with a pad leading down to Wilkinsons Creek on your right).

(16km) Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons creek track → Wilkinsons creek

780 m

16 mins

-94m Experienced only

Turn right: From the low point in the saddle[29], this walk heads west, off the main track, over the grassy rise. Soon finding an overgrown management trail that leads down towards the creek at the bottom of the valley. The walk continues down the side of the hill passing through some low scrub to find many boulders and flat areas[30] beside Wilkinsons Creek[31].

Wilkinsons Creek

Wilkinsons Creek meanders through a beautiful and broad valley. Nestled in the valley between Mt Kosciuszko and Mt Townsend, this is a great spot to cool down or camp for a night. The large, flat, grassy plain, with a scattering of boulders, makes this great place to stay, although can be pretty exposed to westerly winds. You can often get great sunset views from the rocks at the western end. There are no facilities, please remember to use minimal impact techniques when visiting this area. Water is available from the creek. Camp more than 100m from the creek, and if staying for more than a day or two, move your camp to minimise the risk of damage. No fires - use fuel stoves only (there are a few gravelly areas to set your stove up to avoid destroying the grass).

End of day 1

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 1, happy camping.

(16km) Wilkinsons creek → Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko walk

2.2 km

54 mins

253m

-3m Experienced only

Turn around: From the creek[32], the walk heads east, up the valley following the old overgrown management trail. The walk climbs up through the boulders through some low scrub to the grassy gap. Just over the rise this walk comes to a 'T' intersection with the Main Range Track.
Turn right: From the intersection[33], this walk heads south along the clear track, climbing up out of the saddle and along the side of the hill, keeping the valley to your left. The walk heads up many stone steps[34] for about 600m, then flattens out for a little while[35] before coming to a clear and signposted three-way intersection[36]. (Here, the track on the right leads up to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko.)

(19km) Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko path → Mt Kosciuszko

970 m

23 mins

76m

-15m Hard track

Turn sharp right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Mt Kosciuszko' sign[37] uphill along the upper track. This track winds steadily up and around the peak of the mountain, passing a stone-paved[38] section of track, and also a metal grate[39] before climbing a few steps[40] to the cairn at the peak of Mt Kosciuszko[41].

Mt Kosciuszko

Mt Kosciuszko is the highest peak on the Australian continent, at 2228m above sea level. It was named by the Polish explorer Count Paul Edmund Strzelecki and named in honour of the Polish national hero General Tadeusz Kościuszko. Now a popular tourist attraction, thousands of people walk up to the summit each year. On a clear day, the 360-degree views from the summit across the roof of Australia are fantastic. There are higher mountains elsewhere on Australian territory. 'The highest mountains in Australian Antarctic Territory are Mt McClintock (3490 meters) and Mt Menzies (3355 meters).' .

(20km) Mt Kosciuszko → Rawson Pass

1.6 km

39 mins

23m

-127m Hard track

Turn around: From the cairn at the peak of Mt Kosciuszko[43], this walk heads down the steps[44] and past the information sign[45]. The walk heads gently downhill along the gravel track[46] then over a metal grate[47] and a stone path[48], where the gravel path then leads[49] the rest of the way around the side of the peak to come to the signposted intersection with the 'Main Range Track'[50][51].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the gravel track towards 'Rawson Pass'[52] gently downhill, keeping the main valley to your left. The track almost immediately passes an 'Alpine Walks' information sign and map[53] as it continues south. After about 500m, the track becomes a stone path[54] that leads a little further to the clearly signposted three-way intersection at 'Rawson Pass'[55].

Rawson Pass

Rawson Pass is where the old Kosciuszko Road, from Charlotte Pass, meets the metal walkway from Thredbo. It is home to highest public toilet in Australia, this recently-added facility is perfectly positioned for those taking the walk up to the top of Kosciuszko. Rawson Pass is well signposted and 500m south east of Mt Kosciuszko (by straight line). There is also a place for to park mountain bikes for those cycling along the old road from Charlotte Pass.

(21km) Rawson Pass → Lake Cootapatamba lookout

790 m

14 mins

-16m Hard track

Veer right: From 'Rawson Pass', this walk follows the 'Kosciuszko Walk - Lake Cootapatamba Lookout' sign[56] south along the metal walkway as it gently winds down along the side of the hill. Keeping Lake Cootapatamba on your right[57], the path soon leads up a short hill to find the signposted 'Lake Cootapatamba Lookout'[58][59].

Lake Cootapatamba lookout

Situated on the Kosciuszko walk, this platform looks down over Lake Cootapatamba, in the valley on the western side of the path. This is a pleasant place to stop and enjoy the mountains and views.

(22km) Lake Cootapatamba lookout → Int of Kosciuszko path and North Rams Head loop

600 m

12 mins

-31m Hard track

Continue straight: From the lookout, this walk follows the metal walkway heading south down the gentle hill, initially keeping the view to Lake Cootapatamba to your right. The path leads down the ridge across the saddle to find a faint intersection with a foot pad, where the spur from the rocky North Rams Head (on your right) meets the track.

(23km) Int of Kosciuszko path and North Rams Head loop → Int of Kosciuszko path and lookout walkway

2.2 km

50 mins

95m

-115m Hard track

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk heads south-west up and out of the saddle. The walk climbs up onto the ridge, then winds all the way along this ridge line (south), through heavily scattered rock outcrops, to the base of the North Rams Head. The walk then winds up through the large rocks to the peak of North Rams Head.
Turn left: From the peak, the walk heads east towards the Kosciuszko path, initially climbing down through the large rocks to the base of the small mountain. The walk continues east, down the hill, winding through and around many rock outcrops and boulders, then through a grassy pass and down the steep hill. From here, the walk continues through the shallow scrub all the way to the intersection of the Kosciuszko path and the lookout walkway. Now Turn right to rejoin the main walk .

(23km) Int of Kosciuszko path and North Rams Head loop → Int of Kosciuszko path and lookout walkway

1.3 km

28 mins

43m

-63m Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads south along the metal walkway, keeping Rams Head ridge line to your right. The walk follows the metal walkway past the 'Endangered Mammals live between boulders' sign[60] then across the upper reaches of the Snowy River. Here the walk heads up this hill to find a three-way intersection of metal paths, with the Kosciuszko lookout track (on your left).

(24km) Int of Kosciuszko path and lookout walkway → Kosciuszko lookout

50 m

1 mins

-1m Hard track

Turn sharp left: From the intersection[61], this walk heads north-east along the metal path that branches off the main path. The path leads a short distance up some steps[62] to soon come to the metal platform at the Kosciuszko lookout[63][64]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer left.

Kosciuszko lookout

Kosciuszko lookout is about 30m off the main Kosciuszko walk, along a metal walkway. At the lookout, there is a larger platform with an information sign about how the landscape was formed over the years. Granting a great view of the Snowy Mountains to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko.

(24km) Int of Kosciuszko path and lookout walkway → Start of metal walkway

1.3 km

31 mins

-117m Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the metal walkway south, up the hill (away from the lookout). The track leads over the gentle rise and soon comes to 'A rocky mountain home' information sign[65] and a 'Thredbo 1.5km' tag[66] pointing down the hill. Here the walk heads down a series of steps to mostly flatten out at the 'Flowers emerge with warmer weather' information sign[67]. Soon after this, the walk comes to a 'Plant communities - keeping a low profile' information sign[68], marking an intersection (where the snow-pole line on your left joins the main track)[69].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the metal walkway south, downhill, soon passing a 'Plant communities - keeping a low profile' information sign[70] and a 'Thredbo 1.0km' badge[71][72] welded to the track. The walk continues to follow this track down the hill, then past the 'Everything is connected' information sign[73] and the large 'Kosciuszko Walk' sign[74]. At the bottom of the steps, this walk comes to an intersection (with a minor track on your left) just before a bridge at a lovely spot beside the creek.

(25km) Start of metal walkway → Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

550 m

9 mins

-24m Hard track

Continue straight: From the end of the metal walkway[75], this walk crosses the creek using the metal bridge[76] and follows the paved path up and over the gentle rise[77], heading towards the ski lifts. Soon the path leads past a small alcove with two information signs[78]. Here the walk continues along the path a short distance to find a signposted intersection with the 'Dead Horse Gap' track[79] (on your right), where there is also an arrow pointing back to 'Mt Kosciuszko Lookout'[80].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows 'Eagles Nest Restaurant' sign[81] down along the paved path towards the chairlift building[82]. The path gently winds down the hill to find the top of the 'Kosciuszko Express' chairlift[83] and the Eagles Nest Restaurant[84].

Eagles Nest Restaurant

This is Australia's highest restaurant, providing great food and outstanding views. It is easily accessible, nestled on the mountain directly opposite the top of the Kosciuszko Express chairlift, and is open year-round. For more information, call (02) 64576019.

Kosciuszko Express Chairlift

This is one of the few lifts operating in the summer months at Thredbo, and is made quite popular by thousands of people walking to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko each year. Lift tickets can be purchased from the store at the bottom of the chairlift. Lift tickets are $31 return ($25 one way) per person. This lift is generally closed during November and May for maintenance each year, but the the Snowgum chair can be used at this time instead, this will add extra walking time to you walk. More info.

(26km) Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift → Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

1.9 km

20 mins

-558m Very easy

Turn left: From the top terminal, walk up to the platform as directed by the chairlift operator and sit down in the seat, letting it scoop you up. Once seated, pull down the safety bar and enjoy the ride down to Thredbo village. :) After alighting at the bottom, this walk turns right to almost immediately turn left down a set of steps and heads through the building to find an open area at the front of the 'Valley Terminal' building where there are some large maps.

Maps for the Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Perisher Valley	1:25 000 Map Series	85252S PERISHER VALLEY	NSW-85252S
Chimneys Ridge	1:25 000 Map Series	85241N CHIMNEYS RIDGE	NSW-85241N
Kosciuszko	1:100 000 Map Series	8525 KOSCIUSZKO	8525
Jacobs River	1:100 000 Map Series	8524 JACOBS RIVER	8524

Cross sectional view of the Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek

Altitude analysis for Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	25.8 km
		Time	2 Days
		.
Grade 5/6 Experienced only	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Very steep (4/6)
		Quality of track	Rough unclear track (5/6)
		Signs	No directional signs (5/6)
		Experience Required	High level of bushwalking experience recommended (5/6)
		Weather	Forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather likely to have an impact on your navigation and safety (5/6)
		Infrastructure	No facilities provided (5/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

14km of this walk has short steep hills and another 8km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 4km is flat with no steps and the remaining 1.6km is very steep.

Quality of track

11km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 7km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. Whilst another 3.1km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely and a 3km section follows a rough unclear track. The remaining 2.9km follows a smooth and hardened path.

Signs

14km of this walk is clearly signposted and another 6km has directional signs at most intersection. Whilst another 4.6km Has no directional signs and the remaining 3.2km has minimal directional signs.

Experience Required

10km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience and another 9km requires some bushwalking experience. The remaining (9km) requires a leader with a high level of bushwalking experience.

weather

17km of this walk is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety and another 6km forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather likely to have an impact on your navigation and safety. Whilst another 3.1km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety and the remaining 2.3km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

12km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) and another 10km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced). Whilst another 3.5km has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged) and the remaining 2.6km has no facilities provided.

Similar walks

A list of walks that share part of the track with the Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek walk.

Merritts Nature Track

3.7 km Circuit, 2 hrs 30 mins

This walk explores the native bushland around the winter skiing area. After riding the Kosciuszko Express chairlift up the hill, arriving near the Eagles Nest restaurant, the walk winds through the snow gum forest, following ski runs and bush tracks back down the hill. The walk passes the popular

Total climbing: 65m

Hard track

Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Kosciuszko lookout

3.8 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

This scenic walk explores the start of the track heading towards Mt Kosciuszko from the top of the Kosciuszko Express chairlift. The walk takes you to the Kosciuszko Lookout, following along side the Rams Head Range, along the metal walkway. This walk takes in the views of Thredbo, North Rams Head

Total climbing: 149m

Hard track

Dead Horse Gap Track

5.3 km One way, 3 hrs

Starting from near Dead Horse Gap on the Alpine Way, this walk follows the signposted track across Bogong Creek and up the ridge to top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift. This walk provides wide views that expand as you climb, exploring a snow gum forest lower down and the open grass herb fields as yo

Total climbing: 486m

Hard track

Merritts Traverse

5.8 km Circuit, 3 hrs

This walk starts with a scenic journey to the top of the hill on the chairlift. Starting along Merritts Nature walk, this walk soon detours down the hill by following a series of signposted management trails and ski runs. The walk visits a few scenic creeks, but the main highlights are the wide view

Total climbing: 167m

Hard track

Illawong Walk

6.4 km Return, 2 hrs 45 mins

From Guthega village, this walk leads you over Blue Cow Creek and alongside the Snowy River to Illawong Lodge and the suspension bridge. You will be using a narrow, unsignposted but generally clear track. A flying fox is in place over Blue Cow Creek, however a more modern bridge offers a safer path

Total climbing: 343m

Moderate track

Guthega to Snowy River Suspension Bridge

6.4 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

This enjoyable walk starts from Guthega and mostly follows the famous Snowy River, to reach the cable suspension bridge. Before reaching the bridge, the walk crosses the Blue Cow Creek at the flying fox, and winds through the snow gums and the open plains.

Total climbing: 343m

Moderate track

Thredbo to Cootapatamba lookout return

7.5 km Return, 3 hrs 45 mins

This walk starts at the Thredbo Village and takes a ride up the Kosciuszko Express chairlift to the Eagles Nest restaurant. Then on foot, you head along the footpath, winding up towards Mt Kosciuszko, passing North Rams Head and the Kosciuszko lookout. The walk soon arrives at the metal platform o

Total climbing: 287m

Hard track

Dead Horse Gap Loop track

9.8 km Circuit, 4 hrs 30 mins

This walk starts with a ride up the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift. There is an opportunity to eat at Australia's highest restaurant, before heading over the Rams Head Range. After enjoying the spectacular views from the Rams Head Range, the walk drops to Dead Horse Gap, then follows a bush track alon

Total climbing: 144m

Hard track

Dead Horse Gap and Thredbo River loop

10.1 km Circuit, 5 hrs

This loop walk starts from Dead Horse Gap and does a large circuit up to the Eagles Nest Restaurant and down the Chairlift before returning along the Thredbo River. Along the walk there are stunning views from the top of the Rams Head Range, before the opportunity for lunch at Australia's Highest Re

Total climbing: 710m

Hard track

Charlotte Pass to Thredbo via Rawson Pass

12.2 km One way, 5 hrs

Starting at Charlotte Pass, this walk follows the Summit Walk, along the old Kosciuszko Road, as it crosses the Snowy River and passes Seamans Hut. The walk then makes its way to Rawsons Pass, where there is the optional side trip to the top of Mt Kosciuszko. From here, the walk follows the metal

Total climbing: 431m

Hard track

Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko

12.4 km Return, 6 hrs

This popular walk starts with a ride up to the top of the Kosciuszko Express chairlift, and goes to the top of Mt Kosciuszko. From the top of the chairlift, the walk follows a footpath, passing the Kosciuszko and Cootapatamba lookouts, as it winds up to Rawson Pass. At Rawson Pass, the walk meets t

Total climbing: 459m

Hard track

Guthega to Mt Twynam

14.8 km Return, 6 hrs 45 mins

This walk starts from Guthega and makes its way along the Snowy River to the Illawong Lodge, via the Blue Cow Creek flying fox. From the lodge, the walk crosses the suspension bridge and begins the climb up the ridge past Pounds Creek Flats to the top of Mt Twynam. From here, there is an optional si

Total climbing: 913m

Experienced only

Guthega to Charlotte Pass

15.2 km One way, 6 hrs 30 mins

This walk explores the wonderful alpine country between Guthega village and Charlotte Pass at the end of Kosciuszko Rd. Starting with views of Guthega Dam, the walk visits Illawong Lodge and crosses the Snowy River suspension bridge before climbing up to Mt Twynam. Once on the Main Range track, you

Total climbing: 908m

Experienced only

Guthega to Blue Lake via Little Twynam

17.4 km Return, 8 hrs

This great walk starts at Guthega and explores the area east of Blue Lake. The walk heads to the Illawong Lodge, via the Blue Cow Creek flying fox, and then crosses the famous Snowy River at the suspension bridge. The walk then winds up the long ridge to the top of Little Twynam and down to Blue La

Total climbing: 1120m

Experienced only

Summit walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko - Summit Trail

18.5 km Return, 6 hrs

This popular walk starts at Charlotte Pass and follows the Old Kosciuszko Road, as it winds through the mountains, to Rawsons Pass, then continues to the top of Kosciuszko. The walk passes the well known Snowy River and Seamans Hut. From Rawsons Pass it is a fairly short walk up the footpath to Mt

Total climbing: 611m

Hard track

Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko

21.9 km Circuit, 9 hrs

This full day walk explores some of the greatest alpine country on offer in NSW. The walk grants views of Blue, Club and Albina Lakes, climbs to the top of Mt Kosciuszko and crosses the famous Snowy River twice. This main range circuit is one of the classic walks in New South Wales, as the views in

Total climbing: 920m

Hard track

Main Range Track - Loop from Charlotte Pass camping near Mt Townsend

27.7 km Circuit, 2 Days

This great overnight walk starts from Charlotte Pass and provides access to some of the best sights around the Kosciuszko National Park. Just a few of the features along this walk include reaching the summits of the two tallest peaks in Australia, looking down on some glacial lakes and crossing the

Total climbing: 1260m

Experienced only

Main Range Circuit from Guthega

45 km Circuit, 4 Days

This four day walk explores the Kosciuszko National Park, covering many of the key features of the park between Guthega and Rawson Pass. Some of the more popular sights you will visit are the Snowy River, Blue Lake and Lake Albina, a couple of great alpine huts and the two highest peaks in Australia

Total climbing: 2317m

Experienced only

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek walk.

Guthega River Snowshoe

3.3 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

This pleasant snowshoe walk starts from the car park at Guthega. You will wander down the gently hill following a wide trail, then cross Guthega Dam wall. There are great views over the pondage as you continue along the snow covered trail past Guthega Shaft. The flat trail soon ends and the more cha

Total climbing: 115m

Hard track

Guthega Trig

6 km Return, 3 hrs

On this walk, you will visit the old Guthega Trig station and its wide views over the Guthega Dam, the township and surrounding country side. The walk initially leads along management trails and across the dam wall before following a narrow foot pad up the ridge between Guthega River and Falls Cree

Total climbing: 377m

Very experienced only

Mount Piper Trail

5.2 km One way, 2 hrs 45 mins

This winter-only snowshoe walk starts from the Smiggins Centre and follows a snow pole line and cross-country ski trail to Perisher Valley. Starting along the road, you soon follow a snow pole line up and behind Mt Piper. There are some wide vistas over Perisher Creek Valley along sections of this

Total climbing: 167m

Hard track

Rock Creek Snowshoe Trail

3 km Circuit, 1 hr 30 mins

This well signposted, winter-only snowshoe walk is a great way to get into snowshoeing for the first time. Starting from Perisher Village, this walk soon leaves the main road to follow a series of snow poles up a gully and around a small hill. There are some interesting information signs to help y

Total climbing: 84m

Moderate track

Wheatley Circuit

7.3 km Circuit, 3 hrs

This snowshoe walk follows a winter-only route. From Perisher Valley, you walk up along the Kosciuszko Rd to a gap, just past the last ski lift. Here you leave the road to follow the snow pole line up along the Wheatley Link among the snow gums and crossing some open plains. This link leads up to a

Total climbing: 251m

Hard track

Porcupine Walk

5.6 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

Starting at the Perisher Valley Reservoir, this walk heads up through Rock Creek valley to the the panoramic views from Porcupine Rocks. On this walk, you will wander through button grass plains and among groves of snow gums whilst passing some granite tors. From the top of this walk, there are grea

Total climbing: 214m

Hard track

Munyang River Circuit

14.1 km Circuit, 5 hrs 30 mins

This walk explores the alpine country and huts around the Munyang River. You will explore parts of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, starting with the Munyang /Guthega Power station, before climbing up the steep old road to find some great views down the valley. Optional side trips can take you to the Gat

Total climbing: 649m

Hard track

Schlink Hut Walk

22.4 km Return, 9 hrs

This full day (or overnight) walk visits a series of interesting huts whilst exploring some open alpine country and parts of the Snowy Mountains Scheme. Starting at the Guthega / Munyang Power station, you climb up the steep old road to find some great views down the valley. Optional side trips visi

Total climbing: 918m

Hard track

Rainbow Lake Trail

2.5 km Return, 1 Hr

This popular walk explores the snow gums and alpine grasslands between Kosciuszko Rd and Rainbow Lake. The lake is the main focal point for the walk and is a great place to rest or have lunch. The man-made lake was built in the early 1900's to provide water to the Hotel Kosciusko, it is now a natu

Total climbing: 109m

Moderate track

Snow Gums Boardwalk

374 m Return, 15 mins

This short walk starts at Charlotte Pass and follows a stone path, then boardwalk, discovering snow gums and two great lookouts. The first lookout provides great views west, up the Snowy River and Club Lake Creek to the Main Range and Australia's highest peaks. The next lookout is high on a rocky

Total climbing: 15m

Moderate track

Main Range Track - Charlotte Pass to Blue Lake

9.3 km Return, 4 hrs

This walk starts from the end of Kosciuszko Road, at Charlotte Pass, and follows the signposted Main Range Track to the Blue Lake lookout. The walk crosses the famous Snowy River along the way. The Blue Lake lookout is located a short walk down sidetrack and provides stunning views of the lake. The

Total climbing: 542m

Hard track

Main Range Track - Charlotte Pass to the Snowy River return

1.6 km Return, 45 mins

This walk starts at the end of Kosciuszko Road, Charlotte Pass, and follows a paved footpath down, between lightly scattered snow gums, to the bottom of the valley, where it comes to the famous Snowy River. The Foremans Hut ruins can be found along the optional side trip described in the notes.

Total climbing: 123m

Hard track