Hiking in the Snowy Mountains is a unique experience thanks to its diverse and stunning landscape. The region’s rivers, trees and mountains are so awe-inspiring they are often the subject of poetry and novels. Here’s how you can slow down and take it all in by foot, any time of year…
Want to discover your own unforgettable experience in the Snowy Mountains? Check out some great summer things to do here.
Snowies Alpine Walk – An Epic Hike Across the roof of Australia
Section 3 of the brand new Snowies Alpine Walk in Kosciuszko National Park is now complete and ready to be explored.
The new 13 km section of track, which includes upgraded trails, including the popular Porcupine walk, allows visitors to experience the incredible alpine region and Australia’s highest peaks.
The fourth and final stage of the Snowies Alpine Walk from Perisher to Bullocks Flat is due for completion in summer 2023–24 and and will see the full multi-day walk launched. The final section is set to include 11.4 kilometres of new walking tracks, upgraded car parking facilities, and amenities.
The Snowies Alpine Walk is a world-class, 55km multi-day trek that connects the charming villages of Thredbo, Charlotte Pass, Guthega, Perisher, and Bullocks Flat. Keep up to date on track status here.
Experience a Walk in Kosciuszko National Park, Anytime of the Year
When planning a hike in Kosciuszko National Park it’s recommended you check for any current alerts prior to leaving. Make sure you pack for all conditions because the weather can change quickly in the Snowy Mountains. Once this is done, you’re ready to take on these hiking trails, even when those temperatures start to dip.
A popular 5.5km one way bushwalk through dry eucalyptus forests, passing falls and cascades before ending at a great picnic spot by Thredbo River. Wildlife you can spot along the way includes wood ducks, flame robins, crimson rosellas, Australian magpies, wedge-tailed eagles and even platypus.
Located close to Jindabyne, this 6km loop is ideal for a bushwalking, jogging and birdwatching adventure through Kosciuszko National Park. You’ll pass through a variety of settings along the way, including tall eucalypt forest, outcrops of hefty granite boulders, heathland and culminating in the waterfall itself, which is wonderfully peaceful.
Hike in the Shadows of the Mountains at Lake Crackenback
Experience hiking in the Snowy Mountains without ranging too far from some creature comforts! A network of year round hikes can be accessed from Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa. The Resort itself is a great base for hiking as you can grab some snacks for the road or enjoy a meal and a drink upon your return. Try the Bullocks Track, where you’ll walk alongside the Thredbo River and come across the historic Bullocks Hut which 1934. Depending on how low the snowline is, this trail will take you all the way to the Thredbo Diggings campground. If you want to stay closer to the Resort, try the Sculpture Trail, which winds its way past 18 sculptures that have taken part in the famous Lakelight Sculpture Festival.
Enjoy an Off-Snow Adventure at Thredbo
Of course, Thredbo is primarily a destination for a skiing and snowboarding during winter but, depending on the weather conditions, there’s still a couple of options if you wish to take a hike. Both the Pipeline Trail and Riverside / Golf Course hikes are open all year round. It’s a good idea to check the trail status or with Thredbo’s guest services before you head out for your walk.
Walk Alongside the Snowy River in Dalgety
Experience the mighty Snowy River even in the depths of winter by taking the Dalgety Historic Town and River Walk. Dalgety is the only town that can claim it sits directly on the banks of the River and comes with plenty of heritage of its own. Much of the township’s early 19th century façade has been maintained, which gives it a true ‘stepping back in time’ look and feel. Maps are available from Iona Gardens Café and Nursery.
Spot Platypus Along the Bombala River Walking Track
This 2.2km all-weather walking track travels alongside the Bombala River and is renowned for its many platypus viewing locations. In fact, Bombala itself is often referred to as the platypus capital of Australia. The walk also winds around many of the historic sites in this quaint Snowy Mountains village.
Hikes in Surrounding Areas
TUMUT AREA
Blowering Cliffs Walking track
You’ll enjoy views galore on this challenging 5.2km hike to Blowering Falls. Steep in sections with scenic, ever-changing views of Blowering Dam, Blowering Cliffs walking track winds through open montane forest, which grows on sheltered hillsides. It’s common to spot eastern grey kangaroos, emus and wallabies along this track, while birdwatchers will be able to identify a range of native woodland birds, including honeyeaters, firetails, parrots and raptors.
Breathe in the eucalypt-scented air as birds sing overhead and lizards rustle in the undergrowth in this picturesque pocket of Kosciuszko National Park. Along the 10.2km (return) walk perched on the rim of a deep gorge, Landers Falls lookout greets you with fabulous views of Landers Creek Falls as it emerges from the cliff opposite and cascades into a rocky ravine.
YARRANGOBILLY AREA
Hidden deep in the valley amongst towering eucalypts, this short (0.7km one way) but steep walk leads to the Yarrangobilly Caves thermal pool, where a dip in the natural hot spring is soothing and relaxing no matter the season. The walk is also easily combined with a picnic, bushwalk or cave tour.
KHANCOBAN AREA
This 6km (return) track, near Khancoban, boasts historic huts, river crossings and magnificent views of the Snowy Mountains in Kosciuszko National Park. Beginning at the eponymous Geehi Hut, you’ll wade across the crystal clear Swampy Plain River towards Keebles Hut and Old Geehi Hut, with a backdrop of majestic views towards the rugged Western Fall, the steepest part of the Australian Alps.
Want More Snowy Mountains Adventures?
Love hiking in the Snowy Mountains? Ready for another adventure? Check out our experiences page to find out more about what’s on offer in our stunning region.