Main Range Circuit from Guthega

Download & Print Map and Notes

4 Days

45 km Circuit

2317 m

Experienced only

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, Mt Townsend and Mt Kosciuszko. The water supply from the creek at the first nights campsite is unreliable, so consider filling up at the Snowy River on the way.

* 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.

Flying fox track near Guthega service trail

Guthega Pondage looking along Blue Cow creek arm

Australia's highest public toilet at Rawson Pass

The Old Kosciusko Road below Rawson Pass

Traversing the remaining snow along the track

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.

End of day 1

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

(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 → Int of Blue Lake track and Little Twynam route

1.7 km

42 mins

40m

-249m Experienced only

Turn left : From the saddle, the walk heads south-east, up the hill and soon goes through a wide grassy pass between the two large rock outcrops to reach the top of Little Twynam.
Continue straight: From the top of Little Twynam, the walk follows the ridge running south. The walk heads down the ridgeline, keeping Blue Lake to the right, and tends to the left as Hedley Tarn comes into view. The walk then winds down along the ridgeline, keeping the tarn to the right. After a short distance, the ridge and the hill to the right flattens out substantially and the walk turns down the hill, arcing around towards the southern end of Blue Lake. The walk then crosses Blue Lake Creek, just south of Blue Lake, and almost immediately reaches the intersection of the Hedley Tarn and Blue Lake tracks.

Blue Lake

Blue Lake is the best example of a glacial lake in the alpine area. At 28m deep, this lake was formed when glaciers, flowing from the Great Dividing Range, converged and carved out a basin in the rock. This is visible in the cliffs behind the lake, where the glaciers have plucked out blocks of stone and carried them away. There is also a stream that flows from Blue lake, feeding Hedley Tarn just to the south.

(9km) Int of Blue Lake track and Little Twynam route → Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks

1.2 km

25 mins

123m

-9m Hard track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track, winding north-west along the trail, following the Blue Lake Creek upstream as it climbs up over the foot of a spur to the south-eastern corner of the Blue Lake.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track winding west, up over the foot of a spur and continuing up and around the left-hand side of Blue Lake, steadily climbing up the ridge until coming to a platform with an information sign and a great view of Blue Lake about halfway up.
Continue straight: From the platform, the track heads west, uphill[8] away from Blue Lake[9]. The rocky track climbs up around the side of the hill, coming to a paved area[10] with an information sign, stone seat and an intersection with the Main Range track[11].

(10km) Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks → Carruthers Peak

1.7 km

35 mins

159m

-9m Hard track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads west, uphill[12] away from Blue Lake[13]. The walk initially heads along a short section of paved path before continuing along the wide gravel track[14]. The track winds gently uphill for a while, keeping the wide valley to your left. The walk comes to a saddle and a three-way intersection, marked with a 'Main Range Track' signpost[15].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Main Range Track' sign[16] 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[17] (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[18] to the views at the top of Carruthers Peak[19].

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.

(12km) Carruthers Peak → Int of northern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks

2 km

41 mins

25m

-102m Hard track

Continue straight: From the top of Carruthers Peak, this walk follows the clear track west as it winds down the ridge[20]. After about 50m, the track passes an 'I30' survey marker[21] (more good views) where the track bends left and follows the stone path and steps down the hill[22]. At the end of the stone path, the track bends left and heads down the hill[23], over a few lengths of metal grate[24] and comes to a saddle with good views down to Club Lake[25] (on your left). The walk then continues across the saddle, following the clear track to soon pass the 'Rarest Alpine Plant Community' information sign[26]. Heading around the side of the hill (keeping the valley to your right), the walk then comes to another rocky saddle[27]. About 320m beyond this saddle, this track leads to a very faint intersection where the ridge[28] (that leads to the northern end of Albina Lake) on the right meets the main track.

(14km) Int of northern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks → Int of southern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks

1.7 km

37 mins

63m

-108m Hard 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[29] 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[30] 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[31] (leading to Lake Albina, on your right).

(15km) Int of southern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks → Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track

520 m

11 mins

17m

-25m Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the rock-paved Main Range track south[32]. The track steadily winds around the side of the hill (keeping the large valley to your left). After heading between a rocky outcrop[33], the track becomes gravel[34] 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[35] (on your right).

(16km) Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track → Muellers Peak

790 m

23 mins

111m

-4m Experienced only

Turn sharp right: From the intersection, the walk leaves the main path and heads north, off track, following the top of the ridge line[36]. The walk climbs moderately steeply up the grassy hill. Near the top the walk comes to a rocky outcrop[37] and the top of Muellers peak[38].

(17km) Muellers Peak → Int of Mt Townsend and northern Lake Albina track

770 m

18 mins

31m

-59m Experienced only

Continue straight: From Muellers peak[39], this walk heads north, down the rocky ridge[40]. The walk continues along the ridgeline working a way around the many boulders[41] then around another smaller peak to come to a saddle and minor track intersection (with a pad that leads down to Lake Albina).

(17km) Int of Mt Townsend and northern Lake Albina track → Townsend plateau

720 m

18 mins

73m

0m Experienced only

Veer left: From the saddle, this walk heads north-west up the ridge line[42], keeping Lake Albina on your right (as it soon goes out of view) to climb up the hill. After a short time the walk finds a well worm foot pad[43] which leads up between a few rocky outcrops[44] to the large flat saddle[45] between Mt Townsend and Alice Rawson Peak.

Mt Townsend plateau

This bush campsite is in the saddle between Mt Townsend and Alice Rawson Peak. The large, reasonably flat grassy area with a scattering of boulders has no facilities or water supply. Camping is not permitted in areas that drain into the glacial lakes, so only camp and toilet on the north side of the saddle (this limits the amount of nutrients ending up in Lake Albina). There is some shelter from south-westerly winds, but the campsite is exposed to the elements. An alternate campsite at Wilkensons Creek to the south may provide more shelter.

(18km) Townsend plateau → Mt Townsend peak

210 m

7 mins

41m

0m Experienced only

Turn left: From the saddle/plateau, this walk heads west, following the well worn foot pad towards the top of Mt Townsend[46]. The pad leads around to the north eastern side of the peak, over a few boulders to find remains of an old building[47] and a tall rocky outcrop[48]. Here the walk scrambles up the rocks to find a concrete pillar[49] and great views[50] at the peak of Mt Townsend. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

Mt Townsend

Mt Townsend is the second highest peak on the mainland of Australia and arguably the more impressive out of it and Kosciuszko. This point of view started the tradition of walkers climbing to the peak, putting a rock they'd find at the bottom in their pack and adding it to the top, in an attempt to make it the highest peak instead of Kosciuszko. A little known fact is that Mt Townsend was once called Mt Kosciuszko when it was originally thought that it was the highest peak, but when various measurements showed that the now named Kosciuszko was slightly higher, the NSW Lands department decided it would be easier to swap the names around instead of re-educating the public.

End of day 2

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 2, happy camping.

(18km) Townsend plateau → Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track

2.3 km

56 mins

45m

-196m Experienced only

Turn around: From the saddle/plateau[51] between Mt Townsend and Alice Rawson Peak, this walk heads south-east following the well worn foot-pad. The pad soon crosses a small creek[52] and leads down the hill, tending right along the side of the ridge. The pad leads just below the saddle north of Muellers Peak[53], then continues to head fairly gently downhill around the side of Muellers Peak. Keeping Wilkinsons Creek valley below to your right[54], this walk heads around the side of the hill, crossing a few gullies before gently climbing up to the northern end of a large saddle where this walk comes to the gravel Main Range Track[55].

(20km) Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track → Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko walk

1.6 km

42 mins

162m

-9m Hard track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads south along the main track to the low point in the saddle[56] (where there is a faint intersection with a pad leading down to Wilkinsons Creek on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection[57], 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[58] for about 600m, then flattens out for a little while[59] before coming to a clear and signposted three-way intersection[60]. (Here, the track on the right leads up to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko.)

(22km) 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[61] uphill along the upper track. This track winds steadily up and around the peak of the mountain, passing a stone-paved[62] section of track, and also a metal grate[63] before climbing a few steps[64] to the cairn at the peak of Mt Kosciuszko[65].

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).' .

(23km) Mt Kosciuszko → Rawson Pass

1.6 km

39 mins

23m

-127m Hard track

Turn around: From the cairn at the peak of Mt Kosciuszko[67], this walk heads down the steps[68] and past the information sign[69]. The walk heads gently downhill along the gravel track[70] then over a metal grate[71] and a stone path[72], where the gravel path then leads[73] the rest of the way around the side of the peak to come to the signposted intersection with the 'Main Range Track'[74][75].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the gravel track towards 'Rawson Pass'[76] gently downhill, keeping the main valley to your left. The track almost immediately passes an 'Alpine Walks' information sign and map[77] as it continues south. After about 500m, the track becomes a stone path[78] that leads a little further to the clearly signposted three-way intersection at 'Rawson Pass'[79].

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.

(25km) Rawson Pass → Seamans Hut

1.6 km

31 mins

15m

-114m Hard track

Veer left: From the intersection at Rawson Pass[80], this walk follows the 'Seamans Hut' sign[81] along the stone path. The walk soon passes the bicycle parking area[82] then Australia's highest toilet block[83] (on your right). The walk then continues along the management trail[84] as it winds down along the side of the hill to a gap and the clearly signposted 'Seamans Hut'[85] on your left.

Seamans Hut

This hut was erected in 1929, after a young skier named Laurie Seaman perished in a blizzard when he was separated from his group. The hut was built using money donated by Seaman's parents, for the use of those who might need emergency shelter in the mountains. It was renovated in 1938 due to fire. Seamans Hut is a 7m x3m granite stone building with a wood stove, although there is little wood in the area. More info.

(26km) Seamans Hut → Foremans Hut ruins

3.9 km

1 hr 28 mins climb

-292m Experienced only

Veer left: From 'Seamans Hut', this walk initially heads east, off track, up to the top of the ridge[87], keeping the old road off to the right. From here the route bends left then heads north east down the ridge line. The track winds along the ridge line, down to the past another large rocky outcrop[88] to continue to the a point north west of the confluence of the Snowy River and a large tributary. The heath become dense and taller the further down the ridge which can make progress slow and difficult. Here the walk crosses the tributary[89]. This crossing may become impassable after rain or during snow melt.
Continue straight: From the creek crossing[90], this walk generally heads north east following the Snowy River downstream. The walk winds down through the valley until as it narrows to a steep gully[91] where this walk climbs up the side of the hill, around the top of the steep gully. The walk leads through the knee-high dense heath that can really slow progress. After a while, the gully widens out again and this walk heads back down onto the main valley floor, to continue along parallel to the river. After about 2km from the creek crossing, this walk comes to the lone standing brick chimney at the ruins of Foremans Hut[92].

Foremans Hut Ruins

Foremans Hut was built in the 1920's for a Dr Foreman of Wagga Wagga. Most of the hut was demolished in the 1940s, leaving the prominent chimney behind, which has in the past been used by a number of people as a navigation landmark, to save their lives in a blizzard. This is also a nice place to camp for the night as there is a lot of open flat space. Water can be found at the Snowy River to the south or Club Lake Creek just to the north. More info.

End of day 3

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 3, happy camping.

(30km) Foremans Hut ruins → Snow river crossing

490 m

9 mins

-18m Experienced only

Continue straight: From the ruins[93], the walk heads east, keeping the Snowy River to the right (and Club Lake Creek a bit further to your left). The walk continues for about 500m to pass an old fence line[94] to the clear intersection with the wide Main Range track (between the Snowy River and Club Lake Creek crossings).

(31km) Snowy River crossing → Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks

3.2 km

1 hr 7 mins climb

306m

-33m Hard track

Turn left : From between the two creeks, this walk heads north along the wide track to cross Club Lake Creek using the stepping stones. (The creek may not be safe to cross when water covers the stepping stones[95]). The walk then follows the wide, paved track fairly steeply up the hill. After a short time, the track becomes gravel and continues up the hill for about 400m further before passing a 'Mountains of Soil' information sign[96], where the track soon becomes less steep. After about 1.5km, the track passes a 'Created by glaciers' information sign[97] and reveals some views down to Hedley Tarn[98] (on your right). The track continues up the hill and between the granite boulders[99] to then head down the other side of the ridge[100]. The walk leads down to rock-hop across Carruthers Creek[101], then follows the wide, paved path up the hill, passing the 'Remnants of an ancient sea' information sign[102] and coming to a paved area[103], with a view to Blue Lake[104] and some information signs marking a three-way intersection.

(34km) Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks → Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks

880 m

17 mins

60m

-7m Hard track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads west, uphill[105] away from Blue Lake[106]. The walk initially heads along a short section of paved path before continuing along the wide gravel track[107]. The track winds gently uphill for a while, keeping the wide valley to your left. The walk comes to a saddle and a three-way intersection, marked with a 'Main Range Track' signpost[108].

(35km) Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks → Int of Mt Twynam and Blue Lake view tracks

950 m

20 mins

60m

-2m Experienced only

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads around behind the Main Range track signpost and follows the faint 4WD trail north-east, winding up the grassy hill onto the ridge line. The walk follows the ridge line as it winds around the left-hand side of Blue Lake, steadily climbing up to the left of the first knoll. There is a great view of Blue Lake from the hill on the right-hand side of the trail.

(36km) Int of Mt Twynam and Blue Lake view tracks → Blue Lake view

90 m

2 mins

-2m Experienced only

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk heads south east, towards the lake and soon reaches the top of the gentle hill. The view from here spans across the lake and down through to the gully to the northern end of Headley Tarn. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

(36km) Int of Mt Twynam and Blue Lake view tracks → Mt Twynam

1.9 km

41 mins

106m

-24m Experienced only

Continue straight: From the first rise, this walk heads north along the ridge line, keeping Blue Lake to your right as the walk steadily climbs up around to the base of Mt Twynam. At this point, the old management trail ends and the walk continues south-east, climbing up through the rock outcrops to the old trig station at the top of the mountain.

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.

(38km) Mt Twynam → Blue Cow Creek crossing

6.6 km

2 hrs 49 mins climb

115m

-699m Experienced only

Continue straight: From the top of the mountain, this walk heads south-east, down towards Little Twynam. The walk winds down through small rocky outcrops and down the steep rocky hill into the saddle between Mt Twynam and Little Twynam.
Turn left: From the saddle, this walk heads east up and around to the left side of Little Twynam. The walk turns left and winds down the ridge, heading towards the ski runs at Guthega to the far east. Following the rocky ridge line, this walk heads down and around the right-hand side of the large flats near the headwaters of Pounds Creek, until the ridge flattens out next to the flats.
Veer right: From the Pounds Creek flats, this walk heads east down the ridge, heading towards the distant Illawong Lodge. The track winds to the east, down the right-hand side of the ridge while staying high out of the gully (which is to your right). The walk winds back onto the ridge line as it flattens out a little. Continuing down through a small tree line, the track heads through thick scrub, following the ridge to the bottom, where the walk comes to the Snowy River crossing at the cable suspension bridge.
Continue straight: From the cable suspension bridge, the walk heads east up the steep hill through the scrub, to Illawong Lodge (the hut at the top).
Turn left: From Illawong Lodge, the walk heads down the hill, on the north side of the building. The track winds and undulates through the valley, heading downstream. The walk crosses several small creeks and generally follows the Snowy River downstream. After quite some time, the track turns right and begins to wind along the side of the ridge, steadily climbing to the top. The track continues fairly steeply down the other side of the ridge, towards Blue Cow Creek. The walk then crosses Blue Cow Creek on the bridge[109] next to the metal flying fox[110].

(44km) Flying Fox → Int. of Guthega road servicetrail and Flying fox track

330 m

9 mins

44m

-15m Moderate track

Turn left: From the bridge and flying fox, the walk heads downstream, keeping Blue Cow Creek to your left[111]. The creek soon starts to widen as it approaches the dam, and the track moves gently up the hill, but still runs parallel with the creek. Soon, the walk steps across an eroded section of track, then comes to a 'Y' intersection with another track (which heads up the hill to the right).
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk heads up the hill away from the creek. The track winds up through the heath towards the snow gums. There are a couple of short, steep sections in the track, just near the top of the hill. Near the top, the track passes between some boulders and comes to a 'T' intersection with a management trail, and there is a view of part of the Guthega village, up to the right. (There is broken glass along this section of track, left over from Snowy River Scheme Camps).

(45km) Int. of Guthega road servicetrail and Flying fox track → Car park below Guthega Alpine Inn

480 m

10 mins

34m

-6m Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the wide management trail that heads gently up the hill and then continues up along the concrete road towards the buildings. After passing the pump house on the left, the walk then comes to another concrete road. Here, the walk veers left and continues up the hill to Guthega Rd (just below a building called 'Toibunga').
Turn sharp right: From the intersection, just below the building named 'Toibunga', this walk follows Guthega Rd up the hill. The road soon passes a stone building and street light. There are great views over the valley to the right as the road climbs the hill. Soon, the road widens into a car park - The Guthega Alpine Inn is up the hill to the left.

Maps for the Main Range Circuit from Guthega 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 Main Range Circuit from Guthega bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Main Range Circuit from Guthega

Altitude analysis for Main Range Circuit from Guthega

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	45 km
		Time	4 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

31km of this walk has short steep hills and another 9km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 3.1km is very steep and the remaining 2.4km is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

14km of this walk follows a rough unclear track and another 14km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. Whilst another 14km follows a clear and well formed track or trail and a 2.2km section follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely. The remaining 960m follows a smooth and hardened path.

Signs

16km of this walk is clearly signposted and another 15km Has no directional signs. Whilst another 9km has directional signs at most intersection and the remaining 6km has minimal directional signs.

Experience Required

18km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience and another 13km requires a leader with a high level of bushwalking experience. Whilst another 8km requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience and the remaining 5km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

30km of this walk is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety and another 8km forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather likely to have an impact on your navigation and safety. Whilst another 6km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety and the remaining 1.4km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

21km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced) and another 12km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats). Whilst another 6km has no facilities provided and the remaining 6km has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged).

Similar walks

A list of walks that share part of the track with the Main Range Circuit from Guthega walk.

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

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

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

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

Summit Trail - Charlotte Pass to Rawson Pass

15.2 km Return, 5 hrs 30 mins

This walk starts at the end of the road at Charlotte Pass, and follows the Old Kosciuszko Road as it winds through the mountains to Rawson Pass. The walk passes the well known Snowy River and Seamans Hut. Rawson Pass is at the foot of Australia's highest mountain, and there are great views along th

Total climbing: 461m

Hard track

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

Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek

25.8 km One way, 2 Days

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.

Total climbing: 1364m

Experienced only

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

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the Main Range Circuit from Guthega 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

Summit Trail - Charlotte Pass to Seamans Hut

12 km Return, 4 hrs 30 mins

This nice walk starts from Charlotte Pass and follows the old Kosciuszko Road through the mountains to Seamans Hut, crossing the famous Snowy River along the way. Seamans Hut is a great place to enjoy lunch and is openly available for day use (and for emergency use at night). Most of this walk gives

Total climbing: 332m

Hard track

Summit Trail - Charlotte Pass to Snowy River

9 km Return, 3 hrs

Starting at the end of the road at Charlotte Pass, this walk follows the old Kosciuszko Road towards the main range, stopping at the bridge over the Snowy River. At this point the Snowy River is still in its infancy, as is starts its long journey to the ocean in Victoria. The walk follows a well d

Total climbing: 237m

Hard track