Kosciuszko National Park

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There aren't many places where you can climb a continent's highest mountain in a day trip! Take advantage of our relatively friendly altitudes and plan a weekend trip to from late Spring to early Autumn to enjoy "the Snow" in a completely new light.

is about 6 hours drive south of Sydney, check out Google Maps for exact driving directions. The drive itself passes through some beautiful scenery. Take a moment to relax on the banks of Lake Jindabyne just outside the park - it's even more beautiful at sunrise and sunset. Accommodation is available around Jindabyne as well as in the park, but it's also possible to camp for free in some areas of the National Park or in some established camp sites such as Kosciuszko Retreat.

To start your journey to Mt Kosciuszko, simply follow Kosciuszko Rd from Jindabyne to Charlotte Pass. You'll have to pay a vehicle fee to enter the park, which is currently $16 a day, but various passes are available if you think you might be back.

There are two options for reaching Kosciuszko, one is via the Summit Trail - probably the best option for beginners. It is about 9km one way but it is along a road, mostly flat and virtually impossible to get lost even in thick fog (I know from personal experience). The other option for the more adventurous is going via the Main Range Track. It goes for about 25km and joins the Summit Trail at the end to take you back to Charlotte Pass. With this trail however you are rewarded with some truly stunning scenery, taking in glacial lakes, mountain views, the Snowy River and more. Allow a full day for the Main Range Track, and about 3-4 hours for the Summit Trail. The start of both walks are clearly signposted at Charlotte Pass.



Make sure to check the weather conditions - local park rangers can advise you if there are any warnings - and dress and pack sensibly. Even in Autumn there were remnants of snow at the highest points, and very cold winds. You'll need sturdy shoes and warm socks, a good parka, thermals, a rain jacket, gloves and a beanie. Be prepared for all weather conditions as it's a long and uncomfortable walk back if you discover halfway through that perhaps you should have brought that extra jacket.



There are lots of other walks in the area if you want to extend your stay or if perhaps the weather around Kosciuszko is not working for you on a particular day. Check out the official page for lots of helpful information on the area.

One final quirk is that the Visitors Information Centre in Jindabyne will sell you a certificate celebrating your ascent of Australia's tallest mountain for a few dollars, a unique souvenir from a unique weekend.

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