Thredbo River Walk in Kosciuszko National Park

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The Thredbo River Track is a delightful scenic walk nestled in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales, Australia, surrounded by the beautiful pastel colours Snowy Mountains. This trail offers everything hikers desire: a meandering path along the river, breathtaking views, and a rich variety of terrain and flora. In spring, the trail transforms into a vibrant kaleidoscope of colours, with blooming shrubs and a symphony of buzzing life, inviting adventurers to immerse themselves in its beauty.

The Thredbo River Track begins right at the heart of Thredbo Resort, making it an accessible and inviting option for both seasoned hikers and those looking for a leisurely stroll. As you set off from the resort, the path winds gracefully alongside the river, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and the serene beauty of nature.



Thredbo Village is a renowned resort that comes alive in winter, offering exhilarating activities like skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing along trails blanketed in pristine snow. However, this alpine gem in the Snowy Mountains beckons visitors year-round, with each season revealing its unique charm, especially for hikers.



Among the many treasures of Mount Kosciuszko National Park, the iconic Mount Kosciuszko Summit stands tall at 2,228 meters, proudly claiming the title of Australia’s highest peak. Yet, for those seeking a more tranquil experience, the Thredbo River Track offers a lovely hike through the sub-alpine landscape. With Thredbo nestled at 1,380 meters above sea level, this trail invites you to explore its stunning beauty, where lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers create a picturesque backdrop.


Trail Notes

The Thredbo River Track stretches for 8 kilometres round trip, inviting you to spend about three hours immersed in nature. With an elevation gain of approximately 170 meters, you’ll enjoy a gentle uphill walk that rewards you with stunning views. For those looking for a shorter adventure, you can easily modify your trek or take the Golf Course Walk to loop back to Thredbo Village.




The trail begins at the Thredbo Memorial Community Centre, conveniently located just off Crackenback Drive and near the Thredbo Golf Club. As you stroll along the trail which run parallel to Thredbo River, the serene surroundings will captivate you.



Along the way, charming bridges span the Thredbo River, allowing you to cross its clear waters several times, adding to the adventure.




After about 4 kilometres, you’ll reach a junction with the Dead Horse Gap Track, which ascends steeply into the mountains, offering an exhilarating challenge for those seeking more adventure.



The footbridges allow you to cross the Thredbo River, inviting you to pause and soak in the serene beauty surrounding you. Below the surface, the waters teem with life; you might catch a glimpse of shimmering trout darting through the currents. And if you watch closely for the subtle ripple patterns, you could spot a platypus gliding effortlessly, adding a delightful touch of wildlife to your adventure. Each crossing offers a moment to marvel at the tranquil landscape, making the hike all the more memorable.

Highlands Copperhead

During our hike, we had an exhilarating encounter with what was likely a highlands copperhead. Its glossy black body was striking, adorned with a distinctive white and black pattern along its sides. It moved so quickly that we did not have time to snap a photo!

These snakes are reportedly a common sight in the mountains, but it's important to remember that they are highly venomous. If you happen to cross paths with one, be sure to maintain a safe distance and admire their beauty from afar.



Wildflowers on the Thredbo River Trail

As you walk along the Thredbo River Trail, the landscape transforms with the changing seasons, each bringing its own vibrant wildflowers. In spring, the trail bursts into life, showcasing a spectacular array of blooms, with flowers of different colours and shapes.

Among the most striking is the alpine mint bush (*Prostanthera cuneata*), a compact shrub adorned with dark green and strongly aromatic leaves. As you draw closer, you'll notice its delicate mauve to white flowers, each adorned with playful purple blotches, the flowers are so beautiful and elegant.



Oxylobium ellipticum, commonly known as the common shaggy-pea, is a flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It has dense clusters of yellow pea flowers and elliptic-shaped leaves. The common shaggy pea is often colloquially referred to as "egg and bacon" because the yellow flowers resemble the colours of cooked eggs and bacon. This nickname reflects the plant's distinctive appearance and adds a charming touch to its identity in the wild.



Ozothamnus cupressoides is an aromatic shrub species, endemic to Australia. Common names include scaly everlasting, lattice everlasting or kerosene bush. The plant is highly flammable, but generally recovers well after a fire.



Epacris paludosa, commonly known as swamp heath, is a species of flowering plant from the heath family, Ericaceae, and is endemic to eastern Australia. A medium shrub found in wet sites, especially along streams.



Orites lancifolius, commonly known as alpine orites, is a resilient shrub belonging to the Proteaceae family. First formally described in 1855 by botanist Ferdinand von Mueller, it was identified from specimens collected on the rocky summits of the Australian Alps, where it thrives in the harsh alpine environment, showcasing its unique adaptations to the high-altitude landscape.



Granite Buttercup Family: Ranunculaceae, Distribution: New South Wales and Victoria in sub-alpine areas. The scientific name is Ranunculus graniticola. Its three-segmented leaves and bright yellow flowers evoke a sense of joy and resilience, reminding you of the beauty that flourishes in this rugged terrain.



As the snow melts, the shrubs and bushes along the Thredbo River Trail come to life, bursting into vibrant bloom in spring and reaching their full, breathtaking glory by summer.



Thredbo River Track in Winter

This walk becomes particularly captivating in winter when the landscape is blanketed in a stunning layer of snow. It’s an ideal opportunity for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, allowing you to glide through the serene, white wonderland. However, be aware that the route isn’t marked by poles, so it's essential to stay oriented and maintain your sense of direction. The tranquillity of the snow-covered terrain makes for an enchanting experience, inviting adventurers to explore the beauty of winter in Thredbo.



Hiking in Thredbo during winter is nothing short of a transformative experience, where the landscape morphs into a mesmerizing winter wonderland. As you step into this snowy realm, the world around you unfolds in a breathtaking display of nature's artistry. The stark contrast of pristine white snow against the rugged, towering mountains creates a visual feast that captivates the senses, inviting you to explore further.

The trails in Thredbo offer a mix of accessibility and challenge, each with its own charm. Some paths, like the Thredbo River Track, remain open and beckon hikers with promises of serene beauty and gentle adventure. Others may demand more caution, as they are cloaked in snow and ice, making navigation trickier. Before you embark on your journey, it’s wise to check the trail conditions—this small step ensures that your winter hike is safe and enjoyable.



Preparation is key to embracing the magic of winter hiking. Equip yourself with waterproof boots and thermal clothing to keep warm and dry and consider traction aids like microspikes to enhance your grip on icy surfaces. As you pack your backpack, don’t forget essential safety gear—a map, a compass, and a first-aid kit are your companions in this alpine adventure.

As you traverse the snow-covered trails, keep an eye out for the signs of life that linger even in the cold. While many creatures hibernate, the winter landscape still teems with activity. You might spot the delicate tracks of a wandering fox or hear the soft calls of birds that brave the chill, adding a layer of enchantment to your hike.

However, with the beauty of winter comes the unpredictability of its weather. Be vigilant for changing conditions, as winter storms can sweep in unexpectedly, altering the landscape and presenting new challenges. Always let someone know your hiking plans and estimated return time, ensuring that your adventure remains safe.



For those new to winter hiking, guided tours provide an excellent way to explore the area. Knowledgeable guides can share insights about the local environment, enhancing your experience while ensuring your safety on the trails.

Winter hiking in Thredbo is a magical journey, where each step through the snow brings you closer to the breathtaking beauty of nature. With careful planning and a deep respect for the alpine environment, you can create unforgettable memories in this winter paradise.

The Town of Thredbo

Nestled within the stunning landscapes of Kosciuszko National Park, Thredbo is a charming resort town with a small but vibrant permanent population. Accessing this alpine haven requires a national park pass, but the breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures that await are well worth the effort.

Thredbo has earned its reputation as a premier destination for snow activities, drawing winter enthusiasts for skiing, snowboarding, and leisurely rides on the gondola that offers panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. But Thredbo isn’t just a winter wonderland; it transforms with the seasons, offering a plethora of year-round activities. In the warmer months, visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, tackle exhilarating mountain biking routes, and experience the thrill of the newly opened Thredbo Alpine Coaster.



With its diverse range of accommodations, including cosy lodges and family-friendly options, Thredbo serves as an excellent base for exploring the myriad activities available throughout the year. The YHA in Thredbo provides a welcoming atmosphere with co-living spaces, private rooms, and family accommodations, catering to all types of travellers.

The Eastern Thredbo Village opened in 2016 on the east side of Thredbo Village, right among the stunning landscapes of the Snowy Mountains, and invites you to explore the wonders of the area.

The Eastern Thredbo Village is a testament to a rich heritage intertwined with the spirit of adventure in the Snowy Mountains. Their story weaves through the fabric of the breathtaking region, starting in the 1800s when mail was delivered by horse and cart along rugged trails. In the 1970s, the Eastern Thredbo Village embraced the thrill of downhill racing, and by the 1990s, they were at the forefront of innovation, manufacturing sit-skis and training alongside Paralympic athletes.

The Eastern Thredbo Village is committed to living lightly on the land, making mindful choices that reflect our respect for nature. This ethos permeates everything the Village does, starting from sustainable practices to their warm hospitality.



Food lovers will find plenty to satisfy their cravings, with a variety of cafés and restaurants dotting the town. The Alpine Bar stands out as a lively gathering spot, featuring events, live music, and outdoor seating where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while soaking in the vibrant alpine atmosphere year-round. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Thredbo offers an unforgettable escape into nature’s playground.

References

Kosciuszko National Park
Copperhead Snake
Thredbo Information Centre
Alpine Mint Bush
Common Shaggy Pea
Kerosene Bush
Granite Buttercup
Swamp Heath
alpine Orites
YHA Thredbo

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