Dead Horse Gap Loop track

And Walk

Dead Horse Gap Loop 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.

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.

(0km) Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift → Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

1.9 km
20 mins
558m
-1m

Very easy

This walk heads into the ‘Valley Terminal’ building, where you can buy a ticket for the lift. Continue through the building and up the steps, where this walk turns right to find the bottom terminal of the ‘Kosciuszko Express’. 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 to the top of the ridge. 🙂
At the top step of the chair lift and turn left to find the restaurant (now on your right) and track information signs ahead.

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.

(1.86km) Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift → Int of Dead Horse Gap track and Kosciuszko footpath

350 m
6 mins
23m
0m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the top of the chairlift[3], this walk follows the footpath around Eagles Nest restaurant[4][5] (keeping the building to your right). The walk passes the large map[6] and information signs[7], heading up the gentle hill along the paved path[8]. Near the top of the rise, the path leads to a signposted intersection with the ‘Dead Horse Gap’ track[9] (on your left), where there is also an arrow pointing back to ‘Eagles Nest Restaurant’[10].

(2.21km) Int of Dead Horse Gap track and Kosciuszko footpath → Top of Basin Tbar

110 m
2 mins
10m
-1m

Hard track

Veer left: From the intersection, the track follows the rocky bush track a short distance to the top of the Basin Tbar.

(2.32km) Top of Basin Tbar → Upper rest area

1.7 km
36 mins
54m
-74m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the top of the Tbar, the walk follows the bush track heading west along the ridgeline. The track climbs the hill, passing numerous rock outcrops, and reaches an information sign titled “above the tree line”.
Continue straight: From the signpost, the walk follows the bush track along the ridgeline, down the hill. The track passes a long line of ski run markers, continuing down towards the tree line until it comes to the intersection at the wooden bench.

(3.99km) Upper rest area → Int of Thredbo River and Dead Horse Gap tracks

3 km
1 hr 27 mins
11m
-405m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the bush track down the hill. The track winds down the long hill, crossing some metal walkways and wooden boardwalks, then passing through the snowgum forest until it comes to the second, small rest area at the wooden bench seat.
Continue straight: From the bench, the walk follows the bush track down the rocky hill. The track passes through the open snow gum forest, down into the valley. The track goes down a long set of wooden steps and comes to an intersection signposted ‘Dead Horse Gap track’.

(7.02km) Int of Thredbo River and Dead Horse Gap tracks → Cascades Trail track head

160 m
3 mins
3m
-6m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follow the clear track away from the other two sign posted tracks to soon cross Bogong Creek[11] on a metal bridge[12]. The track then leads left and heads up a series of steps to follow behind the road barrier, soon coming to a ‘Thredbo Walking Tracks’ sign[13] beside the road. Here the walk crosses the road to find the Cascades Trail track head car park (on the Alpine Way 5.4km west of Friday Drive).

Dead Horse Gap

Dead Horse Gap is a relativley low mountain pass in the Great Dividing Range at 1582m AMSL. It was once a meeting place for Aboriginal groups in the summer, where they would perform ceremonies and trade with each other. In nature the pass acts as a funnel for the migration of insects and birds[14]. In the early 20th century, the pass became increasingly popular with stockmen, who brought sheep and cattle to the mountains each summer.[15]

(7.02km) Int Thredbo River and Dead Horse Gap tracks → Thredbo River track western bridge

1.1 km
23 mins
8m
-68m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thredbo village 4km’ sign[16] gently downhill whilst keeping the valley (and road) to your right. The track gently undulates along the side of the valley and after about 600m the track leads over a series of metal erosion control grates[17]. The walk continues crossing a series of these grates for about another 600m before leading down a long series of steps[18] to find a large metal bridge[19].

(8.09km) Thredbo River western bridge → Thredbo River eastern bridge

340 m
7 mins
6m
-15m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the small clearing[20], this walk crosses Thredbo River using the long metal bridge[21]. This walk then turns left and heads through the grassy flat (initially over a metal grate[22]) enjoying the scattering of snow gums[23]. Before too long the track comes closer to the river again the leads down a log lined set of stairs[24] to cross the Thredbo River again on another metal bridge[25].

(8.43km) Int of Thredbo River track at eastern bridge → Cascades lookout

470 m
9 mins
8m
-21m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the bridge, this walk crosses to the north side of the river and follows the bush track downstream, winding down the hill and through the snowgum forest. The walk continues along a metal walkway followed by a wooden boardwalk, then heads down a long hill to the intersection at the Thredbo River Cascades lookout platform.

Cascades Lookout

This metal platform leans over the Thredbo River, lookout upstream to the flowing cascades. There is also a wooden seat provided here, making it a great rest stop, conveniently situated about half way between Dead Horse Gap and Thredbo Village, on the Thredbo River track.

(8.9km) Cascades lookout → Int of Thredbo River and golf course tracks

1.3 km
27 mins
12m
-69m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the lookout, this walk winds down the hill following the Thredbo River track as it continues along the creek, winding through the snow gum forest and crossing several metal walkways, continuing down some wooden steps until coming to the signposted intersection of the golf course loop track.

(10.19km) Int of Thredbo River and Golf Course Walk tracks → Int of Riverside Walk and Thredbo River bridge

810 m
15 mins
1m
-30m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads away from the face of the ‘Thredbo River Track’ sign[26] to follow the track east down the hill. The track leads down a series of steps the gently meanders along the side of the Thredbo River. Soon after passing the the green timber pump house[27], this walk comes to an intersection beside a small timber bridge[28] (that heads over a small creek onto the golf course).
Continue straight: From the intersection[29], this walk follows the track away from the golf course down the gentle hill and over a small metal bridge[30], keeping the main river to your right[31]. The track leads through the bush between the golf course and the river, crossing several sections of metal walkways[32] until winding back up to the golf course to soon come to an intersection at a large wooden bridge[33] (that crosses Thredbo River).

(11km) Int of Riverside Walk and Thredbo River bridge → Int behind the community centre

80 m
2 mins
0m
-3m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the timber bridge[34], this walk follows the clear track[35] keeping the river to your right. The track soon leads around the edge of the golf course and over a short metal bridge[36]. About 30m after this track leads to an intersection[37] (where the track on the right leads down to the creek), behind the community centre.

(11.08km) Int behind the community centre → Thredbo Memorial Community Centre

120 m
2 mins
1m
-4m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection[38], this walk follows the track heading downhill towards the river[39]. The track leads along the side of the river[40] for approximately 100m, then bends left and back up to the front of the Community Centre[41].

Thredbo Golf Course

This nine hole AGU (Australian Golf Union) rated course is the highest in Australia. Nestled in beside Thredbo village, and bordering the Thredbo River, this course offers a great form of relaxation, and gives golfers a wonderful way to enjoy the Snowies, without having to travel too far from the village. More info.

(11.2km) Thredbo Memorial Community Centre → Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

480 m
9 mins
10m
-11m

Very easy

Turn right: From the Community Centre[42], this walk follows the road across the bridge[43], over Thredbo River to come to a signposted intersection with ‘Friday Drive’[44].
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads downhill following the ‘Friday Drive’ sign[45] past the pond (on your right). The road leads through a car park and past the children’s play ground[46]. In time the walk follow the footpath beside the road[47] that leads under a footbridge[48], where this walk then turns left across the road bridge[49]. Here the walk tends left up the road to find a large map[50] and the entrance to the tickets station[51] at the bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift.

Maps for the Dead Horse Gap Loop track 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 Dead Horse Gap Loop track bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Dead Horse Gap Loop track

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	9.8 km
		Time	4 hrs 30 mins
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Short steep hills (3/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather may impact on navigation and safety (4/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

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

Gradient

5km of this walk has short steep hills and another 4km has gentle hills with occasional steps. The remaining (2.4km) is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

8km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 2.7km follows a smooth and hardened path. The remaining (890m) follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

Around 7km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 4.9km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 8km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 4.2km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

8km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation) and another 2.8km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety. The remaining (1.3km) is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 8km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 3.5km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Dead Horse Gap Loop track walk starts and ends at the Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift (gps: -36.503981, 148.30397)
Your main transport option to Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift is by;

Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-tttenvdhg
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Snowy Mountains weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_weather_danger.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-tttenvdhg

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-tttenvdhg

Porcupine Walk

And Walk

Porcupine Walk

Download & Print Map and Notes

Covered in snow part of the year

(0km) End of Water Supply Storage Rd → Int of Porcupine and Link Track

1.1 km
23 mins
58m
-1m

Hard track

From the car park at the end of Water Supply Storage Road in Perisher Valley, this walk passes the ‘Porcupine Track’ sign[1] and crosses Rock Creek using the metal bridge. The walk then turns right and follows the next ‘Porcupine Track’ sign[2] towards the pump house[3]. At the pump house, this walk follows the narrow track on the other side of the building[4] and heads left, up past the reservoir[5]. Soon the track bends right and heads up the hill through the open grassland[6] following the line of snow poles. About 300m from the pump house, the track follows the first in a series of metal (erosion control) grates[7]. About 650m after this, the walk crosses Rock Creek again on a flat timber bridge then, 60m later, comes to a signposted three-way intersection with Porcupine Link Track (on your left)[8].

(1.13km) Int of Porcupine and Link Track → Int of Porcupine Trail and Wheatley Link Track

1.3 km
31 mins
109m
-7m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Porcupine Trail’ sign[9] along the track and over the gentle rise heading south-west up the main wide valley. This track heads over a series of metal grates, leading through a few groves of dead snow gums to find a large and fairly flat saddle with a signposted intersection (with the ‘Wheatley Link Track’ on your right). The intersection is just past the new sign and before the older timber sign.

(2.46km) Int of Porcupine Trail and Wheatley Link Track → Porcupine Saddle

320 m
8 mins
25m
-7m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Porcupine’ trail signs[10][11] north-west over the top of the saddle and towards the large rocky pinnacle[12]. The track soon begins to steepen through a rocky area and, just after passing a large rocky outcrop[13] (on your left), the track leads up to a three-way intersection beside the gap[14] (on your left) between the two main peaks[15].

(2.78km) Porcupine Saddle → Porcupine Rocks

30 m
1 mins
0m
-7m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the track uphill[16] (away from the gap). The track soon bends left, then the walk scrambles over the rocks to find the pinnacle of Porcupine Rocks[17]. Be aware that these rocks can shift and may be slippery – do not climb beyond your capabilities.

Porcupine Rocks

The Porcupine Rocks are a large granite outcrop on the ridge, south of Perisher Valley. There are two main peaks[18][19], and a rock scramble[20] leads to the top of the southern peak, providing fantastic views of Perisher Valley[21], Mt Duncan[22], Thredbo River Valley[23] and Bullocks Flat. The gap between the two summits provides some shade and protection from the wind. An amazing place to visit – allow time to just relax and enjoy this place. The summit can be slippery and icy, and there is a shear drop and other hazards. Much care is required.

Maps for the Porcupine Walk 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 Porcupine Walk bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Porcupine Walk

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	5.6 km
		Time	2 hrs 30 mins
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Very steep (4/6)
		Quality of track	Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6)
		Signs	Minimal directional signs (4/6)
		Experience Required	Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
		Weather	Forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather may impact on navigation and safety (4/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged) (4/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

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

Gradient

Around 2.5km of this walk has short steep hills, whilst the remaining 350m is very steep.

Quality of track

Around 2.5km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles, whilst the remaining 350m follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.

Signs

2.5km of this walk is clearly signposted and another 320m has directional signs at most intersection. The remaining (30m) has minimal directional signs.

Experience Required

Around 2.5km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 350m requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 2.8km is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

2.5km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) and another 320m has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced). The remaining (30m) has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Porcupine Walk walk starts and ends at the End of Water Supply Storage Rd (gps: -36.410871, 148.41016)
Your main transport option to End of Water Supply Storage Rd is by;

Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-pt
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-pt

Merritts Traverse

And Walk

Merritts Traverse

Download & Print Map and Notes

Covered in snow & closed part of the year

Kosciuszko Express Chairlift

(0km) Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift → Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

1.9 km
20 mins
558m
-1m

Very easy

Eagles Nest Restaurant

(1.86km) Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift → Top of Snowgums chairlift

420 m
12 mins
11m
-84m

Hard track

Turn sharp left: From the top of the chairlift[3], this walk heads straight downhill (keeping the chairlift to your left) following paved management trail[4]. After about 25m, this walk veers right to leave the paved trail, now following the dirt track marked by the ‘Merritts Nature Track’ sign[5]. The track follows the arrow posts among the granite boulders[6] and down the long series of steps that leads under the chairlift[7]. The track continues to wind steeply down the hill[8] and after some time, comes to a clear ‘T’ intersection with a dirt management trail marked with another ‘Merritts Nature Track’ sign[9].
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Merritts Nature Track’ sign[10] downhill along the wide management trail, keeping the main valley to your right. The trail soon leads to a four-way intersection marked with a ‘Kosciuszko Walk’ sign[11], just above the top of Snowgums chairlift[12].

(2.28km) Top of Snowgums chairlift → Lower bench seat

290 m
8 mins
2m
-73m

Hard track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the track that leads down the left side of the Snowgums chairlift, where the track soon passes a ‘Merritts Nature Track’ sign[13]. The track heads left, away from the chairlift through some snow gums and winds steeply down the hill[14]. About 100m from the chairlift, the walk turns right at a minor intersection[15] (the left branch leads to a view of a small fall) – here, the main track leads down more steep steps to come to a small clearing, with a view of the creek[16] and a wooden bench seat[17].
Veer right: From the bench seat[18], this walk follows the clear track downhill, which soon heads down the steep steps[19][20], coming to another bench seat (and another good excuse for a rest).

Lower bench seat

This small lookout on Merritts Nature Track provides a seat[21] and a view looking north across a wide gully[22]. A small creek cascades down the rocks through the gully. There is limited natural shade from the snow gums here. A nice place to rest and enjoy the view whilst giving your knees a rest.

(2.57km) Lower Bench Seat → Int of Merritts nature track and Village trail (upper)

210 m
6 mins
1m
-48m

Hard track

Veer right: From the bench seat[23], this walk follows the track heading downhill away from the creek[24]. The track passes over a timber[25] then metal[26] section of boardwalk, before heading down a series of steep steps[27]. The track winds down the hill, passing some large boulders[28] before heading down a timber ramp[29] to a four-way intersection with a wide management trail.

(2.78km) Int of Merritts nature track and Village trail (upper) → Bottom of Antons

470 m
11 mins
20m
-42m

Moderate track

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Merritts Traverse’ sign[30] fairly steeply downhill along the wide management trail, as it bends to the right[31]. Soon the walk comes to an intersection and turns sharply left[32] following another ‘Merritts Traverse’ sign[33]. Now fairly flat, the trail bends around the side of the hill, crossing a creek[34] and then, about 200m later, coming to Sponars T-bar lower station[35]. Continuing along the wide trail (following the arrow posts[36] for just over 200m), this walk then comes to the station at the bottom of Antons T-bar[37].

(3.25km) Bottom of Antons → Top of Gunbarrel Express

500 m
17 mins
85m
-11m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the station at the bottom of Antons T-bar[38], this walk follows the arrow post[39] along the clear management trail, steeply up the hill. After about 150m, the trail passes just below ‘Frostbite’ cafe[40][41] (only open in winter) and continues steeply up the hill[42]. Just as the trail begins to flatten out, it passes an intersection (ignoring the trail on your left) marked with a ‘Merritts Traverse’ sign[43]. Here the walk continues uphill and soon crosses a creek (with a small dam[44] on your left), coming to the large station at the top of Gunbarrel Express chairlift[45].

Top of Gunbarrel Express

The top station of Gunbarrel Express provides shade[46], shelter and views into the valley[47]. In winter, this chairlift provides access to the blue and green ski runs on the eastern side of Thredbo. There is a small weir behind the top station that would require treatment before drinking[49].

(3.75km) Top of Gunbarrel Express → Bottom of The Cruiser

840 m
19 mins
3m
-125m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the station at the top of Gunbarrel Express[50], this walk heads east following the wide management trail, keeping the main valley to your right[51]. Soon this walk takes the right-hand fork at the ‘Y’ intersection, following the ‘Merritts Traverse’ sign[52] gently downhill. After about 300m of following the arrow posts[53] across a couple of ski runs, this walk comes to another ‘Merritts Traverse’ sign[54]. Here the walk turns right and heads down the middle of the ski run[55]. Soon the grassy trail leads to the left, following an arrow post through a grove of trees[56], and then turns right[57] and follows beside the chairlift[58] down to the station at the bottom of ‘The Cruiser’[59].

(4.59km) Bottom of The Cruiser → Schuss intersection

1.5 km
37 mins
9m
-261m

Hard track

Turn left : From the the bottom of the chairlift[60], this walk follows the ‘Merritts Traverse’ sign[61] downhill along the wide management trail, initially keeping the Cruiser station to your right[62]. The trail leads down the hill, fairy steeply in places, and after about 270m, the trail bends sharply left[63] then after a further 240m, it bends sharply right[64]. The trail leads through the snow gum forest[65] and past a few small service buildings[66][67] to pass under a chairlift[68]. Just over 200m after passing under Gunbarrel Express chairlift, the trail heads over a creek[69] then follows beside Merritts chairlift[70] to find a clear three-way intersection[71]. There is another ‘Merritts Traverse’ sign[72] pointing back up the hill.

(6.11km) Schuss intersection → Friday Flats

480 m
10 mins
0m
-55m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads away from Merritts Chairlift[73] and the face of the ‘Merritts Traverse’ sign[74], to head downhill along the management trail[75]. This section of the walk follows the ‘Sundowner’ ski run over a (lovely mossy) creek[76] and down this hill to Friday Flats[77], a large open area at the bottom of Gunbarrel Express[78]. Just beyond the chairlift station, this walk comes to an intersection at the start of the sealed driveway, marked with a ‘Bridle Trail Loop’ and ‘Merritts Traverse’ sign[79].

Friday Flat

Friday Flat is an open flat area at the Bottom of the Easy-Does-it and Gunbarrel chairlifts. Friday Flat is a hub for beginner and hungry skiers in winter. In summer, all the facilities are closed, but the web cam seems to run most of the time.

(6.59km) Friday Flats → Thredboland intersection

60 m
1 mins
0m
-2m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the driveway down the hill[81], past ‘Thredboland’[82] to come to a ‘T’ intersection[83] with Friday Drive (about 80m south of the roundabout).

(6.65km) Thredboland intersection → Int of Friday Drive and Merritts Nature Track

430 m
8 mins
7m
-10m

Very easy

Turn sharp right: From the intersection, this walk follows the footpath keeping Friday Dr to your left, heading away from the roundabout, to cross a bridge almost immediately. The walk continues along the side of the road past ‘River Inn’[84] and about 100m later passes the ‘Thredbo Leisure Centre’[85] (on the other side of the road). Just shy of 200m later this walk comes to an intersection with a set of steps signposted as ‘Merritts Nature Track’[86] (on your right), just before the Thredbo River bridge[87].

(7.08km) Int of Friday Drive and Merritts Nature Track → Int of Riverview Terrace track and Merritts Nature Track

70 m
2 mins
11m
0m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Merritts Nature Track’ sign[88] up the steps[89] and along the paved footpath, soon coming to a ‘T’ intersection marked with a ‘Merritts Nature Walk’ sign[90].

(7.15km) Int of Riverview Terrace track and Merritts Nature Track → Bottom of bobsled run

240 m
4 mins
5m
-8m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Merritts Nature Walk’ sign[91] along the paved footpath, keeping the road and valley to your left. The path soon crosses a metal grate[92] and heads through a grove of trees, coming to a three-way intersection marked with an arrow post[93] (and a ‘Merritts Nature Track’ sign pointing up the steps the right[94]).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the paved footpath west towards the clearing[95], keeping the valley to your left. The footpath soon leads out of the bush[96] and then along side the bobsled run[97] to find the building at the bottom of the run[98].

Thredbo Bobsled

With a twisting and turning path more than 700m long, this luge-style track is a great summer activity for the family to enjoy whilst staying in Thredbo. Offering individual rides or day passes, allowing you to enjoy this fun ride as many times as you want as you whizz down the mountain on your cart, controlling your speed with a neat hand-break system. More info.

(7.39km) Bottom of bobsled run → Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

230 m
5 mins
13m
-6m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the bottom of the bobsled run, this walk heads around the building, down the ramp[99] and along the sealed path towards the tennis courts[100]. The walk follows the path beside the tennis courts[101], then through the car park, and around the front of the buildings[102][103] to find the entrance to the ticket sales for the Kosciuszko Express chairlift, and a large map.

Maps for the Merritts Traverse 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 Merritts Traverse bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Merritts Traverse

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	5.8 km
		Time	3 hrs
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Very steep (4/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Generally useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) (1/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

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

Gradient

2.8km of this walk is very steep and another 2.7km is flat with no steps. Whilst another 1.4km has short steep hills and the remaining 690m has gentle hills with occasional steps.

Quality of track

4.3km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 2.9km follows a smooth and hardened path. The remaining (430m) follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles.

Signs

Around 4.3km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 3.3km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 6km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 1.6km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 5km of this walk is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety, whilst the remaining 2.5km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

This whole walk, 8km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Merritts Traverse walk starts and ends at the Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift (gps: -36.503981, 148.30397)
Your main transport option to Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift is by;

Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-mt
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-mt

Main Range Circuit from Guthega

And Walk

Main Range Circuit from Guthega

Download & Print Map and Notes

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.

Covered in snow part of the year

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
6m
-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.

(0.48km) 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.

(0.81km) 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.

(3.03km) Illawong Lodge → Suspension bridge

160 m
4 mins
0m
-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.

(3.19km) Suspension bridge → Pounds Creek flats

2.6 km
1 hr 13 mins
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.

(5.78km) 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.

(6.85km) 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.

(8.57km) 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].

(9.78km) 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.

(11.52km) 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.

(13.52km) 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).

(15.22km) 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).

(15.74km) 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].

(16.54km) 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).

(17.31km) 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.

(18.03km) 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.

(18.03km) 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].

(20.28km) 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.)

(21.93km) 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).’ .

(22.9km) 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.

(24.55km) 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.

(26.17km) Seamans Hut → Foremans Hut ruins

3.9 km
1 hr 28 mins
6m
-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.

(30.07km) Foremans Hut ruins → Snow river crossing

490 m
9 mins
0m
-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).

(30.56km) Snowy River crossing → Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks

3.2 km
1 hr 7 mins
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.

(33.79km) 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].

(34.67km) 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.

(35.62km) Int of Mt Twynam and Blue Lake view tracks → Blue Lake view

90 m
2 mins
1m
-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.

(35.62km) 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.

(37.57km) Mt Twynam → Blue Cow Creek crossing

6.6 km
2 hrs 49 mins
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].

(44.18km) 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).

(44.51km) 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

Daily actual walking time estimates

Day	Walking Time	Length
1	2 hrs 26 mins	5.8 km
2	4 hrs 46 mins	12.5 km
3	4 hrs 39 mins	12 km
4	5 hrs 44 mins	15 km

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).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Main Range Circuit from Guthega walk starts and ends at the Car park below Guthega Alpine Inn (gps: -36.382035, 148.37259)
Your main transport option to Car park below Guthega Alpine Inn is by;

Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-mrcfg
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-mrcfg

Download Pdf

Open iPhone app

Short URL = http://wild.tl/mrcfg

Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)

Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂

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

And Walk

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

Download & Print Map and Notes

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.

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

790 m
18 mins
1m
-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

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.

(0.79km) Snowy River crossing → Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks

3.2 km
1 hr 7 mins
306m
-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.

(4.02km) Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks → Blue Lake lookout

640 m
14 mins
8m
-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].

(4.66km) Blue Lake lookout → Hedley Tarn

1.4 km
29 mins
23m
-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 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.

(4.66km) Blue Lake lookout → Carruthers Peak

2.4 km
49 mins
231m
-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

(7.05km) 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[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.

(9.04km) 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[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).

(10.75km) 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[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).

(11.27km) 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[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].

(12.06km) Muellers Peak → Townsend plateau

1.5 km
36 mins
104m
-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

(13.55km) 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[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

End of day 1

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

(13.55km) 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[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].

(15.81km) 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[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.)

(17.45km) 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[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

(18.43km) Mt Kosciuszko → Rawson Pass

1.6 km
39 mins
23m
-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

(20.07km) Rawson Pass → Seamans Hut

1.6 km
31 mins
15m
-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

(21.69km) Seamans Hut → Snowy River bridge

1.5 km
27 mins
0m
-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].

(23.2km) Snowy River bridge → End of Kosciuszko Road

4.5 km
1 hr 27 mins
73m
-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 Valley	1:25 000 Map Series	85252S PERISHER VALLEY	NSW-85252S
Kosciuszko	1:100 000 Map Series	8525 KOSCIUSZKO	8525

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

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

Daily actual walking time estimates

Day	Walking Time	Length
1	5 hrs 32 mins	15.2 km
2	5 hrs 5 mins	14.1 km

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	27.7 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	Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
		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 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).

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: -36.43167, 148.32865)
Your main transport option to End of Kosciuszko Road is by;

Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-nwnxx
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-nwnxx

Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek

And Walk

Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek

Download & Print Map and Notes

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.

Covered in snow part of the year

Guthega

Guthega Alpine Inn

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

480 m
10 mins
6m
-34m

Moderate track

(0.48km) Int. of Guthega road servicetrail and Flying fox track → Flying Fox

330 m
9 mins
15m
-44m

Moderate track

Flying Fox

(0.81km) Blue Cow Creek crossing → Illawong Lodge

2.2 km
50 mins
129m
-87m

Moderate track

Illawong Lodge

(3.03km) Illawong Lodge → Suspension bridge

160 m
4 mins
0m
-28m

Moderate track

Suspension Bridge

(3.19km) Suspension bridge → Pounds Creek flats

2.6 km
1 hr 13 mins
342m
0m

Experienced only

Pounds Creek Flats

This campsite is flat and sheltered from the wind by the mountain. Water supply from the creek is unreliable.

(5.78km) Pounds Creek flats → Twynam saddle

1.1 km
29 mins
131m
0m

Experienced only

(6.85km) 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

(7.42km) Mt Twynam → Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks

2.9 km
1 hr 1 mins
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.

(10.32km) 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

(11.19km) Carruthers Peak → Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons Creek track

4.4 km
1 hr 33 mins
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).

(15.61km) Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons creek track → Wilkinsons creek

780 m
16 mins
1m
-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.

(16.39km) 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.)

(18.62km) 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

(19.59km) 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

(21.24km) Rawson Pass → Lake Cootapatamba lookout

790 m
14 mins
6m
-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.

(22.02km) Lake Cootapatamba lookout → Int of Kosciuszko path and North Rams Head loop

600 m
12 mins
2m
-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.

(22.63km) 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 .

(22.63km) 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).

(23.96km) Int of Kosciuszko path and lookout walkway → Kosciuszko lookout

50 m
1 mins
0m
-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.

(23.96km) Int of Kosciuszko path and lookout walkway → Start of metal walkway

1.3 km
31 mins
0m
-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.

(25.24km) Start of metal walkway → Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

550 m
9 mins
7m
-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

Kosciuszko Express Chairlift

(25.79km) Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift → Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

1.9 km
20 mins
1m
-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

Daily actual walking time estimates

Day	Walking Time	Length
1	6 hrs 16 mins	16.4 km
2	4 hrs 41 mins	13.5 km

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.

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek walk starts at the Car park below Guthega Alpine Inn (gps: -36.382035, 148.37259)
Your main transport option to Car park below Guthega Alpine Inn is by;

Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
(get details)

The Guthega to Thredbo camping overnight at Wilkensons Creek ends at the Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift (gps: -36.503981, 148.30397)
Your main transport option to Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift is by;
Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-gtcoawc
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-gtcoawc

Download Pdf

Open iPhone app

Short URL = http://wild.tl/gtcoawc

Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)

Schlink Hut Walk

And Walk

Schlink Hut Walk

Download & Print Map and Notes

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 visit the Gate House, Horse Camp Hut and White’s River Hut. The alternate exit via Disappointment Spur gives some variety on the return journey and the chance to visit another historic hut.

Covered in snow part of the year

(0km) Munyang car park → Behind Power station

190 m
5 mins
14m
-5m

Easy track

From the Munyang (Guthega Power Station) car park[1], this walk heads along the short driveway[2] and across the large bridge[3] over the Snowy River, heading towards the power station[4]. At the fence (on the other side of the bridge), this walk turns left[5] to head around to the other side of the power station. Just past the concrete building[6], this walk passes the two large feeder pipes[7] and continues, soon finding an intersection with two management trails[8] marked with a ‘Schlink Trail’ sign[9].

Guthega Power Station (Munyang)

This was the first power station of the Snow Mountains Hydro Electric Scheme, completed in 1955. It is also known as Munyang, as the station sits just west of the confluence of the Munyang and Snowy Rivers. The station boasts two 30MW turbine and generator[11] combinations, providing peak power to the eastern states. The turbines are powered from the water in two large pipes[12] that form part of the Guthega Pressure Tunnel, fed by Guthega Dam. The dam is about 260m higher than the power station. More info.

(0.19km) Behind Power station → Pipe line intersection

1.3 km
35 mins
156m
-7m

Hard track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Schlink Trail’ sign[13] uphill along the sealed management trail[14]. This walk soon heads around a locked gate[15] where the trail becomes dirt[16]. The trail leads uphill quite steeply[17] and, after about 500m, leads under some power lines[18], around a sharp left bend[19] and then back under the same power lines again. The trail continues up, passing through two sharper bends[20] and under a different power line twice before flattening out at a right-hand bend[21] beside the large, white pipelines[22] (the Guthega Pressure Tunnel).

(1.46km) Pipe line intersection → int of Gate House trail and Munyang-geehi Rd

1 km
23 mins
78m
0m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads gently uphill along the management trail, initially keeping the pipeline to your left[23]. The trail soon bends right, away from the pipeline, and heads through the trees. The walk passes under under a set of power lines[24] and continues along the clear management trail, past a signposted fainter trail[25]. About 500m after the power line, the trail bends left, ignoring another faint trail[26] (on your left) just beyond a clearing. Here the walk continues up through the snow gums[27] and soon after a left bend, comes to a clear three-way intersection, marked with a ‘Surge Tank’ and ‘Gate House’ signs[28] (pointing to the left).

(2.49km) Int of Gate House trail and Munyang-geehi Rd → Gate House

440 m
9 mins
9m
-24m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Surge Tank’ and ‘Gate House’ signs[29] south along the grassy management trail, over a small rise[30]. The trail leads though a clearing[31] and after about 170m, this walk takes the left branch at an intersection[32]. The trail soon starts to lead downhill[33], circling around behind the gate house building[34] and soon coming to the front of the building[35] where the large white pipes dominate the landscape[36]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn left.

Gate House

The gate house is a large concrete building, built into the side of the hill about 220m above Guthega Power Station. This building joins the underground Guthega pressure tunnel with the long white pipe that feed the power station. The gate house regulates the flow of water from the dam to the power station. There is some limited shelter and a great view along the pipe down to Munyang[37].

(2.49km) Int of Gate House trail and Munyang-geehi Rd → Int of Horse Camp Hut Trail and Munyang-geehi Rd

1.3 km
27 mins
40m
-63m

Hard track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads west, downhill along the management trail, initially keeping the ‘Gate House’ and ‘Surge Tank’ trail to your left[38]. The trail bends right and crosses a small (culverted) creek[39] then winds over a small rise[40]. From the top of this rise, the trail leads downhill out of the snow gums[41] (passing a faint signposted trail, on your right[42]) to cross a fair sized creek[43] using a concrete ford[44]. Here the trail begins to climb again for about 500m (passing another faint signposted trail, on your right[45]), and just after passing through a grove of snow gums[46], the walk comes to the top of the rise and a three-way intersection marked with a ‘Horse Camp Hut’ sign[47] (pointing left).

(3.83km) Int of Horse Camp Hut Trail and Munyang-geehi Rd → Horse Camp Hut

510 m
10 mins
25m
-1m

Hard track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads west following the ‘Horse Camp Hut – 400 meters’ sign[48] downhill along the management trail, directly away from the main trail and power lines[49]. The trail soon starts to head uphill through the trees and about 170m after a short but steeper climb[50], this trail leads to a small clearing and Horse Camp Hut[51], on your left. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn sharp left.

Horse Camp Hut

Horse Camp Hut is found beside a trail linking the old Munyang-Geehi Rd with an aqueduct trail on the western side of the valley. Still in good condition, this hut was built for surveyors in the 1950s as part of the Snowy Mountains Scheme effort. The hut has a distinctive red door[53] and two rooms. The smaller room contains bunk beds and a stove[54] and the larger room has a fire place, table and sitting area[55]. The hut has a timber floor[56] and the outer walls and roof are made of corrugated iron[57]. There is a creek nearby for water[58] and a pit toilet[59] is available. The grassy flat area around the hut makes for great camping[60].

(3.83km) Int of Horse Camp Hut Trail and Munyang-geehi Rd → Int of Aquaduct Trail and Munyang-geehi Rd

3.2 km
1 hr 7 mins
157m
-76m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north, downhill along the main management trail, keeping the valley and power lines to your right[61]. The trail almost immediately passes a ’97G-3′ sign[62] (pointing toward the power lines) and continues, crossing under the power lines twice[63] before crossing Munyang River on a concrete bridge[64] almost 1km after the ‘Horse Camp Hut’ sign. From here, the trail leads up the other side of the valley, crossing under the power lines again[65] before gently climbing up along the side of the valley. The trail crosses three small (culverted) creeks[66] and passes through a long run of dead snow gums[67]. Just past the third creek, the trail leaves the dead snow gums and climbs past the signposted ‘GGA-MSS 21 24’ trail[68] (on your left) and, about 400m later, comes to a signposted three-way intersection[69]. This intersection is signposted as ‘Disappointment Spur Trail’[70] (aka Aquaduct Trail) and ‘Schlinks Trail’[71] (aka Munyang-geehi Rd).

(6.98km) Int of Aquaduct Trail and Munyang-geehi Rd → Behind Power station

7 km
2 hrs 29 mins
199m
-485m

Hard track

Turn sharp right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Disappointment Spur Trail’ sign[72] (and AAWT arrows[73]) uphill along the upper trail, keeping the valley (and lower trail) to your right[74]. The grassy trail climbs for a short while then flattens out[75], following the covered aqueduct (on your left). There are many numbered posts[76] and water collection points[77] along the way. After about 400m, the trail bends left and heads downhill to cross a creek using a concrete ford[78]. Here the trail climbs up through a run of dead snow gums[79]. The trail rises and falls, crossing a few small creeks[80] and crossing another creek and concrete ford[81], a little over 1km after the last ford. The trail climbs again, still through the dead gums[82], crossing a couple more creeks[83] before coming to a small clearing and hut[84] (about 130m after the creek marked with an orange ‘S29045’ post[85]).
Continue straight: From the hut, this walk follows the management trail north-east[86] (initially keeping hut and valley to your right). The trail immediately bends left and follows beside the covered aqueduct around the side of the valley[87]. The trail leads over a few small creeks[88] and past water catchment devices[89] for the aqueduct. The trail leads up and down through a few small valleys and through the dead snow gum trees[90] but about 1.5km from the hut, the trail begins to head consistently downhill[91]. Further down the hill, the trail bends right[92] and passes beside a tall rock cutting[93], where there are great views up along the Munyang River[94] (to your right). The cutting continues for about 130m, bending left partway along. The walk then continues down the hill for another 600m where it passes around a locked gate[95] to find a large clearing[96] under the power lines[97] and a ‘Disappointment Spur Trail’ sign[98]. The walk continues straight across the timber bridge[99], bending left to follow a fence[100] to the switching yard[101] and sealed section of road[102]. The walk continues along the sealed road beside the switching yard and soon comes to a clear intersection[103] behind the power station marked with a ‘Schlink Trail’ sign[104] (pointing up another trail).

Disappointment Spur Hut

Disappointment Spur Hut was built in the 1950’s out of two standard accommodation modules, to support workers on the Snowy Mountains Scheme. The hut is in a small clearing[106] on the side of Disappointment Spur Trail (aka Aqueduct track). There is a supply of water from the nearby aqueduct[107] and a flat area for camping (no toilet). The hut is made from weatherboard with a flat tin roof, has a timber floor and three windows. There is a bunk bed[108] and a table[109] inside, and a fire circle outside[110].

(6.98km) Int of Aquaduct Trail and Munyang-geehi Rd → White’s River Hut intersection

1.1 km
26 mins
99m
-13m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Schlinks Trail’ sign[111] downhill along the management trail and soon crosses a (culverted) creek[112]. The trail passes an overgrown signposted trail[113] (on your left) and starts to climb the side of the hill, soon passing under a set of power lines[114] as the valley views open up[115]. The trail continues uphill for about 400m, passing a couple of rock falls[116] and also a clear management trail[117] (on your left). From here, the trail continues for another 400m, then flattens out and come to an unsignposted three-way intersection[118], just before a right-hand bend (and a ‘GGA-MSS 33’ sign[119]). Here you can see White’s River Hut and a weather station[120].

(8.05km) White’s River Hut intersection → White’s River Hut

260 m
5 mins
8m
-2m

Hard track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads west, downhill along the grassy management trail towards the creek, and turns right almost immediately[121]. The clear trail soon leads through a rocky creek crossing[122] then over a small rise[123] tending left[124] to cross another creek[125]. These creeks may become impassable after rain or snow melt. The trail then leads up to a clearing and finds White’s River Hut[126]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn left .

White’s River Hut

At this site, there are a few buildings – the main hut is believed to have been built in by Bill Napthali and Fred Clarke in 1935 to house them as they grazed cattle. It is also possible that the hut was built by Edward Haslingdon and his sons in 1933. The Kosciusko Alpine Club has a long history with the hut and has made many changes over the years – they are now the primary caretakers. This hut has two main rooms[130][131] plus an entry woodpile annex[132]. The second hut is behind the main hut – the SMA hut[133] (aka the Kelvinator). This second hut is not as well maintained[134] as the main one. There is also a pit toilet[135] beside the hut. A large, flat, grassy area[136] makes a great place to camp and the nearby creek is a source of water[137]. NOTE: On 27th July 2010 an accidental fire has done significant damage to this hut, it is now fenced off and accessing the hut is unsafe. A plan is likley to be put into place to restore the hut.

(8.05km) White Rivers Hut intersection → Schlink Pass

1.4 km
31 mins
101m
-4m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads gently uphill along the main management trail, soon passing the ‘GGA-MSS 33’ sign[139] where the trail then bends right[140]. The trail continues uphill for a while to lead parallel under the power lines[141] for a short time before bending around the ridge and passing under the same power lines[142]. For the next 600m, the trail continues up the side of the valley before flattening out at a saddle, signposted as ‘Schlink Pass’[143].

(9.44km) Schlink Pass → Schlink Hut

1.8 km
34 mins
38m
-67m

Hard track

Continue straight: From Schlink Pass[144], this walk heads north gently downhill along the management trail whilst keeping the valley and power lines to your left[145]. The trail leads down along the side of the valley, crossing a couple of (culverted) creeks[146] among the scattering of snow gums. The trail passes a few signs but about 300m after the ‘GAA-MSS 53 56’ sign[147], the trail enters a grove of trees[148] and leads a bit more steeply down to cross another (culverted) creek[149], with a view to Schlink Hut on your left[150]. Here the walk heads up the short rise[151] to find an intersection with a management trail (on your left) just above Schlink Hut[152].
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk heads downhill along the short management trail towards Schlink Hut[153]. The trail leads between the toilet (on your right) and the hut[154]. The far end of the toilet[155] and hut[156] is unlocked and available for public use.

Schlink Hut

This is a large Snowy Mountain Scheme hut built in 1961. The hut sits between the maintenance road and a set of high tension power lines which run along the valley[157]. The hut was built to house the staff who were building and maintaining the infrastructure in the area. Today, part of the hut is left unlocked for public use. There is a pump-out toilet[158], flat grassy area[159] and creek nearby for water[160]. The hut has several rooms[161], beds[162], a fire place and a table[163]. The hut is named after Sir Herbert Henry Schlink (1883-1962), a medical doctor and xc skier. Dr Schlink made the first winter crossing from Kiandra to Kosciusko. The hut is often called the Schlink Hilton, due to its size. More info.

Maps for the Schlink Hut Walk 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.

Geehi Dam	1:25 000 Map Series	85252N GEEHI DAM	NSW-85252N
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 Schlink Hut Walk bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Schlink Hut Walk

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	22.4 km
		Time	9 hrs
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Very steep (4/6)
		Quality of track	Clear and well formed track or trail (2/6)
		Signs	Minimal directional signs (4/6)
		Experience Required	Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
		Weather	Forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather may impact on navigation and safety (4/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

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

Gradient

7km of this walk has short steep hills and another 3.2km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 1.3km is very steep and the remaining 190m is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

This whole walk, 11km follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

10km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection and another 1.4km has minimal directional signs. The remaining (190m) is clearly signposted.

Experience Required

10km of this walk requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience and another 1.3km requires some bushwalking experience. The remaining (190m) requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 11km of this walk is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety, whilst the remaining 190m is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

Around 11km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 190m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Schlink Hut Walk walk starts and ends at the Munyang car park (gps: -36.350976, 148.41342)
Your main transport option to Munyang car park is by;

Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-shw
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-shw

Download Pdf

Open iPhone app

Short URL = http://wild.tl/shw

Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)

Main Range Walk – Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko

And Walk

Main Range Walk – Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko

Download & Print Map and Notes

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 clear weather extend all the way over the mountainous landscape to the distant horizon. If you want to stay overnight there is a flat area for camping at Wilkinsons Creek, described as a side trip.

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

790 m
18 mins
1m
-122m

Hard track

Snowy River crossing

(0.79km) Snowy River crossing → Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks

3.2 km
1 hr 7 mins
306m
-33m

Hard track

(4.02km) Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks → Blue Lake lookout

640 m
14 mins
8m
-72m

Hard track

Blue Lake

(4.02km) 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[27] away from Blue Lake[28]. The walk initially heads along a short section of paved path before continuing along the wide gravel track[29]. 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[30].

(4.9km) Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks → Carruthers Peak

860 m
18 mins
99m
-2m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Main Range Track’ sign[31] 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[32] (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[33] to the views at the top of Carruthers Peak[34].

Carruthers Peak

(5.76km) Carruthers Peak → Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track

4.2 km
1 hr 29 mins
105m
-235m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the top of Carruthers Peak, this walk follows the clear track west as it winds down the ridge[35]. After about 50m, the track passes an ‘I30’ survey marker[36] (more good views) where the track bends left and follows the stone path and steps down the hill[37]. At the end of the stone path, the track bends left and heads down the hill[38], over a few lengths of metal grate[39] and comes to a saddle with good views down to Club Lake[40] (on your left). The walk then continues across the saddle, following the clear track to soon pass the ‘Rarest Alpine Plant Community’ information sign[41]. Heading around the side of the hill (keeping the valley to your right), the walk then comes to another rocky saddle[42]. About 320m beyond this saddle, this track leads to a very faint intersection where the ridge[43] (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[44] 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[45] 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[46] (leading to Lake Albina, on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the rock-paved Main Range track south[47]. The track steadily winds around the side of the hill (keeping the large valley to your left). After heading between a rocky outcrop[48], the track becomes gravel[49] 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[50] (on your right).

(9.98km) Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track → Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons Creek track

200 m
4 mins
3m
-7m

Hard track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads south along the main track to the low point in the saddle[51] (where there is a faint intersection with a pad leading down to Wilkinsons Creek on your right).

(10.19km) Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons creek track → Wilkinsons creek

780 m
16 mins
1m
-94m

Experienced only

Turn right: From the low point in the saddle[52], 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[53] beside Wilkinsons Creek[54]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

Wilkinsons Creek

(10.19km) Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons Creek track → Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko walk

1.4 km
38 mins
159m
-2m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection[55], 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[56] for about 600m, then flattens out for a little while[57] before coming to a clear and signposted three-way intersection[58]. (Here, the track on the right leads up to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko.)

(11.63km) 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[59] uphill along the upper track. This track winds steadily up and around the peak of the mountain, passing a stone-paved[60] section of track, and also a metal grate[61] before climbing a few steps[62] to the cairn at the peak of Mt Kosciuszko[63].

Mt Kosciuszko

(12.6km) Mt Kosciuszko → Rawson Pass

1.6 km
39 mins
23m
-127m

Hard track

Turn around: From the cairn at the peak of Mt Kosciuszko[65], this walk heads down the steps[66] and past the information sign[67]. The walk heads gently downhill along the gravel track[68] then over a metal grate[69] and a stone path[70], where the gravel path then leads[71] the rest of the way around the side of the peak to come to the signposted intersection with the ‘Main Range Track’[72][73].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the gravel track towards ‘Rawson Pass’[74] gently downhill, keeping the main valley to your left. The track almost immediately passes an ‘Alpine Walks’ information sign and map[75] as it continues south. After about 500m, the track becomes a stone path[76] that leads a little further to the clearly signposted three-way intersection at ‘Rawson Pass’[77].

Rawson Pass

(14.25km) Rawson Pass → Seamans Hut

1.6 km
31 mins
15m
-114m

Hard track

Veer left: From the intersection at Rawson Pass[78], this walk follows the ‘Seamans Hut’ sign[79] along the stone path. The walk soon passes the bicycle parking area[80] then Australia’s highest toilet block[81] (on your right). The walk then continues along the management trail[82] as it winds down along the side of the hill to a gap and the clearly signposted ‘Seamans Hut’[83] on your left.

Seamans Hut

(15.87km) Seamans Hut → Snowy River bridge

1.5 km
27 mins
0m
-95m

Hard track

Continue straight: From ‘Seamans Hut’[85], this walk follows the management trail as it winds down the hill[86]. After about 450m, the trail passes a flat clearing[87] 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’[88].

(17.37km) Snowy River bridge → End of Kosciuszko Road

4.5 km
1 hr 27 mins
73m
-164m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the bridge[89], this walk follows the management trail east, passing the ‘Snowy River’ sign[90]. The trail soon bends left, coming to the un-signposted concrete Merritts Creek bridge[91][92].
Continue straight: From the bridge[93], this walk heads uphill along the management trail[94], keeping the main line of snow poles to your left. The old road soon leads past a ‘CP 4’ sign[95] (on your left), over the ridge line[96] and down the other side[97]. The trail gently winds down along the side of the hill, enjoying views of the Snowy River and valley to your left[98]. The old road passes a few creeks[99] and more ‘CP’ signs along the way. A little while after the ‘CP 1’ sign[100], the management trail enters a nice grove of snow gum trees[101][102] then heads up a small rise to find the turning circle at the end of Kosciuszko Rd[103][104] at Charlotte Pass (with the toilet block to your right).

Maps for the Main Range Walk – Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko 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
Kosciuszko	1:100 000 Map Series	8525 KOSCIUSZKO	8525

Cross sectional view of the Main Range Walk – Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Main Range Walk – Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko

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	21.9 km
		Time	9 hrs
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Short steep hills (3/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
		Weather	Forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather may impact on navigation and safety (4/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged) (4/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

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

Gradient

10km of this walk has short steep hills and another 6km is flat with no steps. The remaining (6km) has gentle hills with occasional steps.

Quality of track

Around 20km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail, whilst the remaining 2.2km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles.

Signs

Around 19km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 2.4km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

10km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience and another 7km requires some bushwalking experience. The remaining (4km) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 22km is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

11km 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). The remaining (790m) has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Main Range Walk – Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko walk starts and ends at the End of Kosciuszko Road (gps: -36.43167, 148.32865)
Your main transport option to End of Kosciuszko Road is by;

Car. A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-mrtblakl
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-kosciunp-mrtblakl

Download Pdf

Open iPhone app

Short URL = http://wild.tl/mrtblakl

Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)

Cascade Hut

And Walk

Cascade Hut

Download & Print Map and Notes

And Walk

Dead Horse Gap Loop track

Covered in snow part of the year

Kosciuszko Express Chairlift

(0km) Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift → Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

Very easy

Eagles Nest Restaurant

(1.86km) Top of Kosciuszko Express chairlift → Int of Dead Horse Gap track and Kosciuszko footpath

Moderate track

(2.21km) Int of Dead Horse Gap track and Kosciuszko footpath → Top of Basin Tbar

Hard track

(2.32km) Top of Basin Tbar → Upper rest area

Hard track

(3.99km) Upper rest area → Int of Thredbo River and Dead Horse Gap tracks

Moderate track

(7.02km) Int of Thredbo River and Dead Horse Gap tracks → Cascades Trail track head

Moderate track

Dead Horse Gap

(7.02km) Int Thredbo River and Dead Horse Gap tracks → Thredbo River track western bridge

Moderate track

(8.09km) Thredbo River western bridge → Thredbo River eastern bridge

Moderate track

(8.43km) Int of Thredbo River track at eastern bridge → Cascades lookout

Moderate track

Cascades Lookout

(8.9km) Cascades lookout → Int of Thredbo River and golf course tracks

Moderate track

(10.19km) Int of Thredbo River and Golf Course Walk tracks → Int of Riverside Walk and Thredbo River bridge

Moderate track

(11km) Int of Riverside Walk and Thredbo River bridge → Int behind the community centre

Moderate track

(11.08km) Int behind the community centre → Thredbo Memorial Community Centre

Moderate track

Thredbo Golf Course

(11.2km) Thredbo Memorial Community Centre → Bottom of Kosciuszko Express chairlift

Very easy

Maps for the Dead Horse Gap Loop track walk

Cross sectional view of the Dead Horse Gap Loop track bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Dead Horse Gap Loop track

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

Some more details of this walks Grading

Gradient

Quality of track

Signs

Experience Required

weather

Infrastructure

Similar walks

Other Nearby walks

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

Fire Danger

Weather Forest

Park Information & Alerts

Comments

And Walk

Porcupine Walk

Covered in snow part of the year

(0km) End of Water Supply Storage Rd → Int of Porcupine and Link Track

Hard track

(1.13km) Int of Porcupine and Link Track → Int of Porcupine Trail and Wheatley Link Track

Hard track

(2.46km) Int of Porcupine Trail and Wheatley Link Track → Porcupine Saddle

Hard track

(2.78km) Porcupine Saddle → Porcupine Rocks

Hard track

Porcupine Rocks

Maps for the Porcupine Walk walk

Cross sectional view of the Porcupine Walk bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Porcupine Walk

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

Some more details of this walks Grading

Gradient

Quality of track

Signs

Experience Required

weather

Infrastructure

Similar walks

Other Nearby walks

Plan your trip to and from the walk here