 Mount Kosciuszko summit. Source/Credit: Ben Stower, Hotels Combined

If you’re visiting Kosciuszko National Park in the warmer months, a walk to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko is a must-do.

This iconic day walk from Thredbo will have you conquering the summit of Mount Kosciuszko in a couple of hours. You’ll quite literally be on a high as you soak in the epic views from Australia’s highest point.

Starting at the top of the Kosciuszko Express chairlift at Thredbo, this popular day walk takes you to the rooftop of Australia. After the scenic chairlift ride, you’ll travel past the rocky granite outcrops of Ramshead Range, and through alpine wildflowers (spring). Stop at the lookout for views of the country’s highest mountain.

THe sceneic chairlift is used by hikers and mountain bikers in the warmer seasons. Photo: ©Snowy Mountains Tourism

Alpine wildflowers in Spring time. Photo: ©Snowy Mountains Tourism

360 degree views and mountain fresh air from the summit of Mount Kosciuszko. Photo: ©Elinor Sheargold

The track crosses the headwaters of the Snowy River, before climbing above Lake Cootapatamba and on to Rawson Pass. From here, it’s a gradual climb to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko (2228m).

The sweeping 360 views across the Snowy Mountains and Victorian High Country are sure to wow you. Stay a while to soak in the fresh alpine air, pack a summit snack, and wallow in your sense of achievement, before returning along the track to Thredbo.

Take a virtual tour of Kosciuszko walk – Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Walk Details

Where: Thredbo-Perisher area in Kosciuszko National Park
Distance: 13km return
Time suggested: 4 – 5hrs
Grade: Grade 3
Price: Free entry fees. Park entry fees apply.
Opening times: The track is generally snowbound in winter (June to October). You can get to Mount Kosciuszko on cross-country skis or snowshoes, but there are no snow poles marking the route.
What to bring: Drinking water, hat, sunscreen, snacks, clothes for all weather conditions

Further Notes

The track starts at the top of the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift, which runs 9 am – 4.30pm and takes 15mins. For chairlift prices visit the Thredbo website.
You can also walk up Merritts Nature Track from Thredbo Village to the top of the chairlift. This difficult 4km track takes around 2-3 hours uphill.
It’s a good idea to bring a topographic map, compass, and a GPS, and read our safety tips before you set out.
Fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB from the Snowy Region Visitor Centre.

The Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko walk meets the Kosciuszko Summit walk at Rawson Pass. From here, a 1.6km gravel track winds up Mount Kosciuszko, offering incredible views across the Snowy Mountains. Photo: ©Elinor Sheargold

The weather can close in quickly and can get very cold at the top, make sure you bring all the right clothing. Photo: ©Ben Stower

On the top of Australia! Photo: ©http://snowymountains.com.au

Originally sourced from National Parks NSW.

Author: Jason Lorch

Born and grew up in Wales but now a fully fledged Aussie. A passionate mountain biker, hiker and general nature addict. I’m also a bit of a muso and enjoy a good craft beer every now and again (probably too often).

I hope what we do here at Tyres and Soles will inspire people to get out there and experience first hand, the natural wonders that surround them.

So, pump up those tyres, don your favourite boots. Grab a mate, a partner, a pet… and head out into nature. But tell us all about it when you get back.

Chief editor at Tyres and Soles.

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