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

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Time 2 Days
Circuit 27.7 km Circuit
Climb 1260 m
Grade 5 Experienced only
Car
no_pets
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 famous Snowy River.

* 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.

Main Range Track head at Charlotte Pass Charlotte Pass Information signs on Main Range Track Track looking down to Snowy River Looking towards the confluence of Club Lake Creek and the Snowy River Snowy River Crossing Crossing the Snowy River Main Range Track north of the Snowy Main Range track Headley Tarn from the Main Range Track Glacier information sign Main Range track looking down to Carruthers Creek from the south Carruthers Creek Crossing Main Range Track north of Carruthers Creek Main Range and Blue Lake track intersection Blue Lake from the Main Range and Blue Lake track intersection Top of Blue Lake Lookout Track Blue Lake lookout Blue Lake Main Range track looking down to the top of the Blue Lake track Sign post at the Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks Looking to Carruthers Peak from the east Main Range track on Carruthers Peak View from Carruthers Peak Looking west from the side of Carruthers Peak Main Range Track looking over Club Lake valley Club Lake from the Main Range Track Metal grates on sections of the Main Range Track The Main Range Narrow track above Albina Lake Rocky pass above Lake Albina Lake Albina Lake Albina Stone path south of Lake Albina Walking along the Main Range Track Close up of some Alpine berries Looking up at Muellers Peak from the south Albina Lake from Muellers Peak Muellers Peak Track looking up to Mt Townsend plateau Mt Townsend plateau Path to top of Mt Townsend View from summit of Mt Townsend View from Mt Townsend Track between Mullers Peak and Wilkinsons Creek Wilkinson Creek Mt Townsend Track near Main Range Track Walkers on Main Range track at Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track Main Range Track North of Mt Kosciuszko Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko walk Nearing Mt Kosciuszko summit View from Mt Kosciuszko Looking to Rawson Pass from the north Rawson Pass Looking towads Mt Kosciuszko Rock cutting on the old summit road Be prepared for all kinds of weather Looking towards Rawson Pass from the east The old road near Seamans Hut Seaman's Hut Welcome to Seamans Hut Inside Seamans Hut Snowy River Bridge Upper Snowy River Information sign on the Snowy River Wild flowers in bloom Merritts Creek Bridge Historic Kosciuszko milestone 4km to Charlotte pass Granite tors beside the old road The views change as clouds roll in but still stunning country Walking along the old road Summit track from Charlotte Pass is popular with cyclists and walkers Celmisia Longifolia (Silver Snow Daisy) Snow Gum leaf Looking back on Blue Lake track from Summit Walk Summit Walk track head Toilet and road at Charlotte Pass

Covered in snow part of the year

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 carry 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. Between the long weekend in June and October, the road between Perisher Village and Charlotte Pass is closed by the RTA. It is possible to organise oversnow transport.

(0km) End of Kosciuszko Road → Snowy River crossing

distance 790 m time 18 mins climb 1m descent -122m Hard track
From Charlotte Pass[1] (at the turning circle at the end of Kosciuszko Rd), this walk follows the 'Main Range Track' - 'Blue Lake Lookout' sign[2] downhill along the wide paved path[3]. The walk winds down past the stone path[4] (on your right) and continues beside the 'Glaciers shaped this ancient landscape' information sign[5]. The path continues down through lightly scattered snow gums to the bottom of the valley, approximately 650m further. Just past the 'From the mountains to the sea' information sign[6], this walk crosses the Snowy River using the stepping stones[7] and comes to a strip of land between the two creeks[8]. (Crossing the river is dangerous and is not advisable when the water is flowing over the stepping stones[9]).

Snowy River crossing

Snowy River crossing
At the lowest point of the the Main Range circuit track is the confluence (meeting) of the Snowy River and Club Lake Creek. The walking track uses stones in the river to try to get across with dry feet. Since the track crosses just above the confluence there is an 'island'[10] halfway across. These creeks may become impassable after rain and snow melt. This is lovely place to rest and enjoy the water and valley.

(1km) Snowy River crossing → Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks

distance 3.2 km time 1 hr 7 mins climb 306m descent -33m Hard track
Veer right: 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[11]). 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[12], where the track soon becomes less steep. After about 1.5km, the track passes a 'Created by glaciers' information sign[13] and reveals some views down to Hedley Tarn[14] (on your right). The track continues up the hill and between the granite boulders[15] to then head down the other side of the ridge[16]. The walk leads down to rock-hop across Carruthers Creek[17], then follows the wide, paved path up the hill, passing the 'Remnants of an ancient sea' information sign[18] and coming to a paved area[19], with a view to Blue Lake[20] and some information signs marking a three-way intersection.

(4km) Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks → Blue Lake lookout

distance 640 m time 14 mins climb 8m descent -72m Hard track
Turn right: From the paved area[21], this walk follows the dirt track next to the stone seat, heading east towards Blue Lake[22]. The rocky track winds down and around the northern side of the ridge[23] to a platform[24] with an information sign[25] and a fantastic view of Blue Lake[26].

(5km) Blue Lake lookout → Hedley Tarn

distance 1.4 km time 29 mins climb 23m descent -103m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the lookout platform, this walk heads east down the rocky bush track to the bottom of the valley at the eastern end of the lake, and into the shallow gully, where the walk comes to the intersection of the Little Twynam track a short while later.
Veer right: From the south eastern tip of the lake, this walk follows the Blue Lake creek into the shallow gully, where it comes to the intersection of the Little Twynam route about 150m downstream.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track heading south-east, down-stream alongside the creek flowing out of Blue Lake to Hedley Tarn. The walk heads through to the southern end of the shallow gully and around the western side of Hedley Tarn, coming to the southern side. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Continue straight.

Hedley Tarn

Hedley Tarn
Hedley Tarn is a beautiful glacial lake just south of Blue Lake, from which you can see right across the valley to the end of Kosciuszko Road at Charlotte Pass and is well worth the trip down from Blue Lake.

(5km) Blue Lake lookout → Carruthers Peak

distance 2.4 km time 49 mins climb 231m descent -17m Hard track
Turn around: From the platform, the track heads west, uphill[27] away from Blue Lake[28]. The rocky track climbs up around the side of the hill, coming to a paved area[29] with an information sign, stone seat and an intersection with the Main Range track[30].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads west, uphill[31] away from Blue Lake[32]. The walk initially heads along a short section of paved path before continuing along the wide gravel track[33]. 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[34].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Main Range Track' sign[35] 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[36] (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[37] to the views at the top of Carruthers Peak[38].

Carruthers Peak

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.

(7km) Carruthers Peak → Int of northern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks

distance 2 km time 41 mins climb 25m descent -102m Hard track
Continue straight: From the top of Carruthers Peak, this walk follows the clear track west as it winds down the ridge[39]. After about 50m, the track passes an 'I30' survey marker[40] (more good views) where the track bends left and follows the stone path and steps down the hill[41]. At the end of the stone path, the track bends left and heads down the hill[42], over a few lengths of metal grate[43] and comes to a saddle with good views down to Club Lake[44] (on your left). The walk then continues across the saddle, following the clear track to soon pass the 'Rarest Alpine Plant Community' information sign[45]. Heading around the side of the hill (keeping the valley to your right), the walk then comes to another rocky saddle[46]. About 320m beyond this saddle, this track leads to a very faint intersection where the ridge[47] (that leads to the northern end of Albina Lake) on the right meets the main track.

(9km) Int of northern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks → Int of southern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks

distance 1.7 km time 37 mins climb 63m descent -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[48] 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[49] 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[50] (leading to Lake Albina, on your right).

(11km) Int of southern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks → Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track

distance 520 m time 11 mins climb 17m descent -25m Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the rock-paved Main Range track south[51]. The track steadily winds around the side of the hill (keeping the large valley to your left). After heading between a rocky outcrop[52], the track becomes gravel[53] 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[54] (on your right).

(11km) Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track → Muellers Peak

distance 790 m time 23 mins climb 111m descent -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[55]. The walk climbs moderately steeply up the grassy hill. Near the top the walk comes to a rocky outcrop[56] and the top of Muellers peak[57].

(12km) Muellers Peak → Townsend plateau

distance 1.5 km time 36 mins climb 104m descent -59m Experienced only
Continue straight: From Muellers peak[58], this walk heads north, down the rocky ridge[59]. The walk continues along the ridgeline working a way around the many boulders[60] then around another smaller peak to come to a saddle and minor track intersection (with a pad that leads down to Lake Albina).
Veer left: From the saddle, this walk heads north-west up the ridge line[61], 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[62] which leads up between a few rocky outcrops[63] to the large flat saddle[64] between Mt Townsend and Alice Rawson Peak.

Mt Townsend plateau

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.

(14km) Townsend plateau → Mt Townsend peak

distance 210 m time 7 mins climb 41m descent 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[65]. The pad leads around to the north eastern side of the peak, over a few boulders to find remains of an old building[66] and a tall rocky outcrop[67]. Here the walk scrambles up the rocks to find a concrete pillar[68] and great views[69] 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
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 1

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

(14km) Townsend plateau → Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track

distance 2.3 km time 56 mins climb 45m descent -196m Experienced only
Turn around: From the saddle/plateau[70] 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[71] and leads down the hill, tending right along the side of the ridge. The pad leads just below the saddle north of Muellers Peak[72], then continues to head fairly gently downhill around the side of Muellers Peak. Keeping Wilkinsons Creek valley below to your right[73], 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[74].

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

distance 1.6 km time 42 mins climb 162m descent -9m Hard track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads south along the main track to the low point in the saddle[75] (where there is a faint intersection with a pad leading down to Wilkinsons Creek on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection[76], 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[77] for about 600m, then flattens out for a little while[78] before coming to a clear and signposted three-way intersection[79]. (Here, the track on the right leads up to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko.)

(17km) Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko path → Mt Kosciuszko

distance 970 m time 23 mins climb 76m descent -15m Hard track
Turn sharp right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Mt Kosciuszko' sign[80] uphill along the upper track. This track winds steadily up and around the peak of the mountain, passing a stone-paved[81] section of track, and also a metal grate[82] before climbing a few steps[83] to the cairn at the peak of Mt Kosciuszko[84].

Mt Kosciuszko

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).' .

(18km) Mt Kosciuszko → Rawson Pass

distance 1.6 km time 39 mins climb 23m descent -127m Hard track
Turn around: From the cairn at the peak of Mt Kosciuszko[86], this walk heads down the steps[87] and past the information sign[88]. The walk heads gently downhill along the gravel track[89] then over a metal grate[90] and a stone path[91], where the gravel path then leads[92] the rest of the way around the side of the peak to come to the signposted intersection with the 'Main Range Track'[93][94].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the gravel track towards 'Rawson Pass'[95] gently downhill, keeping the main valley to your left. The track almost immediately passes an 'Alpine Walks' information sign and map[96] as it continues south. After about 500m, the track becomes a stone path[97] that leads a little further to the clearly signposted three-way intersection at 'Rawson Pass'[98].

Rawson Pass

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.

(20km) Rawson Pass → Seamans Hut

distance 1.6 km time 31 mins climb 15m descent -114m Hard track
Veer left: From the intersection at Rawson Pass[99], this walk follows the 'Seamans Hut' sign[100] along the stone path. The walk soon passes the bicycle parking area[101] then Australia's highest toilet block[102] (on your right). The walk then continues along the management trail[103] as it winds down along the side of the hill to a gap and the clearly signposted 'Seamans Hut'[104] on your left.

Seamans Hut

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.

(22km) Seamans Hut → Snowy River bridge

distance 1.5 km time 27 mins climb 0m descent -95m Hard track
Continue straight: From 'Seamans Hut'[106], this walk follows the management trail as it winds down the hill[107]. After about 450m, the trail passes a flat clearing[108] with views (on your left) where the trail bends right to head down to the valley. After a little while, the trail crosses the concrete bridge over the signposted 'Snowy River'[109].

(23km) Snowy River bridge → End of Kosciuszko Road

distance 4.5 km time 1 hr 27 mins climb 73m descent -164m Hard track
Continue straight: From the bridge[110], this walk follows the management trail east, passing the 'Snowy River' sign[111]. The trail soon bends left, coming to the un-signposted concrete Merritts Creek bridge[112][113].
Continue straight: From the bridge[114], this walk heads uphill along the management trail[115], keeping the main line of snow poles to your left. The old road soon leads past a 'CP 4' sign[116] (on your left), over the ridge line[117] and down the other side[118]. The trail gently winds down along the side of the hill, enjoying views of the Snowy River and valley to your left[119]. The old road passes a few creeks[120] and more 'CP' signs along the way. A little while after the 'CP 1' sign[121], the management trail enters a nice grove of snow gum trees[122][123] then heads up a small rise to find the turning circle at the end of Kosciuszko Rd[124][125] at Charlotte Pass (with the toilet block to your right).

Maps for the Main Range Track - Loop from Charlotte Pass camping near Mt Townsend 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 Valley1:25 000 Map Series85252S PERISHER VALLEYNSW-85252S
Kosciuszko1:100 000 Map Series8525 KOSCIUSZKO8525

Cross sectional view of the Main Range Track - Loop from Charlotte Pass camping near Mt Townsend bushwalking track

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

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Main Range Track - Loop from Charlotte Pass camping near Mt Townsend

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

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.

Length27.7 km
Time2 Days
.




Grade 5/6



Experienced only		AS 2156.1GradientVery steep (4/6)
Quality of trackRough unclear track (5/6)
SignsNo directional signs (5/6)
Experience RequiredModerate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
WeatherForecast, unforecast storms and severe weather likely to have an impact on your navigation and safety (5/6)
InfrastructureNo 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 6km is flat with no steps. Whilst another 6km has gentle hills with occasional steps and the remaining 1.6km is very steep.

Quality of track

20km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 4.5km follows a rough unclear track. The remaining (3.5km) follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles.

Signs

21km of this walk is clearly signposted and another 4.5km Has no directional signs. The remaining (2.4km) has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

10km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience and another 9km requires some bushwalking experience. The remaining (8km) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 25km of this walk is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety, whilst the remaining 3km forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather likely to have an impact on your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

14km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced) and another 11km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats). Whilst another 2.3km has no facilities provided and the remaining 790m 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 Track - Loop from Charlotte Pass camping near Mt Townsend walk.

Main Range Track - Charlotte Pass to the Snowy River return

1.6 km Return, 45 mins

Main Range Track - Charlotte Pass to the Snowy River return

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Summit Trail - Charlotte Pass to Snowy River

9 km Return, 3 hrs

Summit Trail - Charlotte Pass to Snowy River

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Main Range Track - Charlotte Pass to Blue Lake

9.3 km Return, 4 hrs

Main Range Track - Charlotte Pass to Blue Lake

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Summit Trail - Charlotte Pass to Seamans Hut

12 km Return, 4 hrs 30 mins

Summit Trail - Charlotte Pass to Seamans Hut

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Charlotte Pass to Thredbo via Rawson Pass

12.2 km One way, 5 hrs

Charlotte Pass to Thredbo via Rawson Pass

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko

12.4 km Return, 6 hrs

Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Summit Trail - Charlotte Pass to Rawson Pass

15.2 km Return, 5 hrs 30 mins

Summit Trail - Charlotte Pass to Rawson Pass

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Guthega to Charlotte Pass

15.2 km One way, 6 hrs 30 mins

Guthega to Charlotte Pass

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

Grade 5
  • Car

Experienced only

Guthega to Blue Lake via Little Twynam

17.4 km Return, 8 hrs

Guthega to Blue Lake via Little Twynam

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

Grade 5
  • Car

Experienced only

Summit walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko - Summit Trail

18.5 km Return, 6 hrs

Summit walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko - Summit Trail

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko

21.9 km Circuit, 9 hrs

Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek

25.8 km One way, 2 Days

Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek

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

Grade 5
  • Car

Experienced only

Main Range Circuit from Guthega

45 km Circuit, 4 Days

Main Range Circuit from Guthega

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

Grade 5
  • Car

Experienced only

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the Main Range Track - Loop from Charlotte Pass camping near Mt Townsend walk.

Snow Gums Boardwalk

374 m Return, 15 mins

Snow Gums Boardwalk

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

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Charlotte Pass to Mt Stilwell return

3.8 km Return, 1 hr 45 mins

Charlotte Pass to Mt Stilwell return

This enjoyable walk starts from the end of Kosciuszko Rd, Charlotte Pass, and follows the ridgeline, on the western side of the village, up to the top of Mt Stilwell. The walk passes the Tbar and Chairlift stations along the way. This walk follows a clear track to the top, and is great for those lo

Total climbing: 203m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Charlotte Pass Village and Mt Stilwell loop

4.2 km Circuit, 2 hrs 15 mins

Charlotte Pass Village and Mt Stilwell loop

This loop walk starts at Charlotte Pass, and winds up to Mt Stilwell's peak, with stunning views in every direction. The walk then goes along the ridge line to the village lookdown, near the demolished Tbar station, before returning to the village through the snow gum forest. There is an optional s

Total climbing: 295m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Charlotte Pass to Village Dam

778 m Return, 30 mins

Charlotte Pass to Village Dam

This short, leisurely walk starts at the bottom of the Kangaroo Ridge Triple Chairlift, just on the edge of the village. The walk follows the faint grassy service trail around the edge of the great snow gum forest to the small dam in Spencers Creek, not far from the village. This is a great walk fo

Total climbing: 45m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Charlotte Pass to Village Lookdown

2.4 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

Charlotte Pass to Village Lookdown

This is a fun walk, starting from the bottom of the Kangaroo Ridge Triple Chairlift, and following the management trail and bush track up the side of the ridge through a great snowgum forest to the top, where it comes to the village lookdown, near an old demolished Tbar station.

Total climbing: 215m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Porcupine Walk

5.6 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

Porcupine Walk

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Bullock's track - via Bullock's Hut

5.2 km Circuit, 2 hrs

Bullock's track - via Bullock's Hut

This walk explores some of the history and beauty along the Thredbo River around Bullocks Flat. Starting from the Thredbo Diggings campsite, you will follow the clearly signposted Bullocks Track though the scattering of snow gums and granite boulders to Bullocks Hut, before returning to the campsit

Total climbing: 110m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Bullock's Track via Muzzlewood Flat

4.5 km Circuit, 1 hr 30 mins

Bullock's Track via Muzzlewood Flat

This pleasant circuit walk explores some lovely sections of the Thredbo River, as well as some snow gum forests, granite boulder outcrops and a series of frost hollows. Much of the first half of this walk follows the Thredbo River passing some inviting grassy areas where you can sit and enjoy the wa

Total climbing: 102m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Bullocks Hut

1.5 km Return, 30 mins

Bullocks Hut

On this walk, you will explore a historic section of the Thredbo River around Bullocks Flat. Starting at the ski tube car park, this walk follows the signposted track under the rail bridge to the historic Bullocks Hut. There is an optional side trip across the Thredbo River to explore some rusty rui

Total climbing: 22m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Rock Creek Snowshoe Trail

3 km Circuit, 1 hr 30 mins

Rock Creek Snowshoe Trail

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

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Wheatley Circuit

7.3 km Circuit, 3 hrs

Wheatley Circuit

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

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Illawong Walk

6.4 km Return, 2 hrs 45 mins

Illawong Walk

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

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Main Range Track - Loop from Charlotte Pass camping near Mt Townsend walk starts and ends at the End of Kosciuszko Road (gps: -36.431670, 148.32865)

car Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.<br /> (get details)

Weather Forecast

This walk starts in the Snowy Mountains weather district.

Current Alerts

Park Information

Kosciuszko National Park

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