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Home arrow Hiking near Sydney arrow Kosciuszko NP (South) arrow Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko     

Bushwalking track notes, photographs, maps and more for Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko are found in each of the tabs below
Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko
Time: 9 hrs Walking time
Please allow extra time to rest and to explore
0.5 km NW of Charlotte Pass
Length: 21.9 km Walk Length
As this is a Circuit style walk, the 21.9 km includes the walking distance from the start around the loop and back to the start again
Kosciuszko National Park
Climb: 920 m Total Climbing
This walk has a total cumulative climb of 920 m, this is the total of the elevation gains made in each of the walks uphill sections
There is car access and parking near the start and end of this walk
Style: Circuit
Track: Hard

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. (open in app)


There are Closed areas in Kosciuszko National Park
Today's Fire rating
LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
  Bushwalking track notes photographs, maps and camping spots for Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko

Map of Walk

Location

                Sponsor of Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko bushwalking tracknotes
Map of Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko
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Map Controls - Show Contours | Hide Path | Hide Distances | Hide Names
Map Scale 5 km
End of Kosciuszko Road
Snowy River crossing
Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks
Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks
Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks
Carruthers Peak
Int of northern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks
Int of southern Lake Albina and Main Range tracks
Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track
Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons creek track
Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons Creek track
Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko path
Mt Kosciuszko
Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko path
Rawson Pass
Seamans Hut
Snowy River bridge
Merritts Creek bridge
Starting point for this hiking track: End of Kosciuszko Road

Base maps are used under licence and is © Department of lands   Panorama Avenue Bathurst 2795   www.lands.nsw.gov.au

Maps that cover the walk area (please always carry maps of the area)

Print a map and track notes here
 Perisher Valley 1:25 000 Map Series NSW-85252S 
 Kosciuszko 1:100 000 Map Series 8525 

Photo Gallery

 
Main Range Track head at Charlotte Pass
 
Main Range Track head at Charlotte Pass +
 
Charlotte Pass
 
Charlotte Pass +
 
Information signs on Main Range Track
 
Information signs on Main Range Track +

 
Track looking down to Snowy River
 
Track looking down to Snowy River +
 
Looking towards the confluence of Club Lake Creek and the Snowy River
 
Looking towards the confluence of Club Lake Creek and the Snowy River +
 
Snowy River Crossing
 
Snowy River Crossing +

 
Crossing the Snowy River
 
Crossing the Snowy River +
 
Main Range Track north of the Snowy
 
Main Range Track north of the Snowy +
 
Main Range track
 
Main Range track +

 
Headley Tarn from the Main Range Track
 
Headley Tarn from the Main Range Track +
 
Glacier information sign
 
Glacier information sign +
 
Main Range track looking down to Carruthers Creek from the south
 
Main Range track looking down to Carruthers Creek from the south +

 
Carruthers Creek Crossing
 
Carruthers Creek Crossing +
 
Main Range Track north of Carruthers Creek
 
Main Range Track north of Carruthers Creek +
 
Main Range and Blue Lake track intersection
 
Main Range and Blue Lake track intersection +

 
Blue Lake from the Main Range and Blue Lake track intersection
 
Blue Lake from the Main Range and Blue Lake track intersection +
 
Top of Blue Lake Lookout Track
 
Top of Blue Lake Lookout Track +
 
Blue Lake lookout
 
Blue Lake lookout +

 
Blue Lake
 
Blue Lake +
 
Main Range track looking down to the top of the Blue Lake track
 
Main Range track looking down to the top of the Blue Lake track +
 
Sign post at the Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks
 
Sign post at the Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks +

 
Looking to Carruthers Peak from the east
 
Looking to Carruthers Peak from the east +
 
Main Range track on Carruthers Peak
 
Main Range track on Carruthers Peak +
 
View from Carruthers Peak
 
View from Carruthers Peak +

 
Looking west from the side of Carruthers Peak
 
Looking west from the side of Carruthers Peak +
 
Main Range Track looking over Club Lake valley
 
Main Range Track looking over Club Lake valley +
 
Club Lake from the Main Range Track
 
Club Lake from the Main Range Track +

 
Metal grates on sections of the Main Range Track
 
Metal grates on sections of the Main Range Track +
 
The Main Range
 
The Main Range +
 
Narrow track above Albina Lake
 
Narrow track above Albina Lake +

 
Rocky pass above Lake Albina
 
Rocky pass above Lake Albina +
 
Lake Albina
 
Lake Albina +
 
Lake Albina
 
Lake Albina +

 
Stone path south of Lake Albina
 
Stone path south of Lake Albina +
 
Walking along the Main Range Track
 
Walking along the Main Range Track +
 
Close up of some Alpine berries
 
Close up of some Alpine berries +

 
Wilkinson Creek
 
Wilkinson Creek +
 
Wilkinsons Creek
 
Wilkinsons Creek +
 
Camping at Wilkinsons Creek
 
Camping at Wilkinsons Creek +

 
Walkers on Main Range track at Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track
 
Walkers on Main Range track at Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track +
 
Main Range Track North of Mt Kosciuszko
 
Main Range Track North of Mt Kosciuszko +
 
Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko walk
 
Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko walk +

 
Nearing Mt Kosciuszko summit
 
Nearing Mt Kosciuszko summit +
 
View from Mt Kosciuszko
 
View from Mt Kosciuszko +
 
Looking to Rawson Pass from the north
 
Looking to Rawson Pass from the north +

 
Rawson Pass Looking towads Mt Kosciuszko
 
Rawson Pass Looking towads Mt Kosciuszko +
 
Rock cutting on the old summit road
 
Rock cutting on the old summit road +
 
Be prepared for all kinds of weather
 
Be prepared for all kinds of weather +

 
Looking towards Rawson Pass from the east
 
Looking towards Rawson Pass from the east +
 
The old road near Seamans Hut
 
The old road near Seamans Hut +
 
Seaman's Hut
 
Seaman's Hut +

 
Welcome to Seamans Hut
 
Welcome to Seamans Hut +
 
Inside Seamans Hut
 
Inside Seamans Hut +
 
Snowy River Bridge
 
Snowy River Bridge +

 
Upper Snowy River
 
Upper Snowy River +
 
Information sign on the Snowy River
 
Information sign on the Snowy River +
 
Wild flowers in bloom
 
Wild flowers in bloom +

 
Merritts Creek Bridge
 
Merritts Creek Bridge +
 
Historic Kosciuszko milestone
 
Historic Kosciuszko milestone +
 
4km to Charlotte pass
 
4km to Charlotte pass +

 
Granite tors beside the old road
 
Granite tors beside the old road +
 
The views change as clouds roll in, but still stunning country
 
The views change as clouds roll in, but still stunning country +
 
Walking along the old road
 
Walking along the old road +

 
Summit track from Charlotte Pass is popular with cyclists and walkers
 
Summit track from Charlotte Pass is popular with cyclists and walkers +
 
Celmisia Longifolia (Silver Snow Daisy)
 
Celmisia Longifolia (Silver Snow Daisy) +
 
Snow Gum leaf
 
Snow Gum leaf +

 
Looking back on  Blue Lake track from Summit Walk
 
Looking back on Blue Lake track from Summit Walk +
 
Summit Walk track head
 
Summit Walk track head +
 
Toilet and road at Charlotte Pass
 
Toilet and road at Charlotte Pass +

Terrain

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

Cross Section 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 bushwalking track

Summary of the gradients over the the lenght of the Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko bushwalking track

Overview of this walks Grading - Based on the AS 2156.1 - 2001
These details are new. This new feature still requires more testing and refining. Please use the 'Walker Feedback' for report specific issues. Please e-mail Matt if you have any general comments. Hope you find it helpful.

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length 22km
Time 9 hrs
.


Grade 4/6

Track: Hard
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)
*This summary of grading information is new and still in testing

Some more detail of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining the 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).

Track Notes


Drive to End of Kosciuszko Road
You can drive or ride to this start of this Bushwalk A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
You can drive or ride to the start of this walk
Use these links to plan your trip to the start of this walk.
Plan your trip from --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|

Covered in snow part of the year Alt = 1838 m
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.

(0 km) End of Kosciuszko Road to Snowy River crossing
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 785 m Time = 18 mins
Climb = 1 m Descent = -122 m
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 Alt = 1717 m
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.

(0.79 km) Snowy River crossing to Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 3.23 km Time = 1 hr 7 mins
Climb = 306 m Descent = -33 m
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.

(4.02 km) Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks to Blue Lake lookout
Optional sidetrip: Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 643 m Time = 14 mins
Climb = 8 m Descent = -72 m
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].
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then veer right to continue along this walk.)

Blue Lake Alt = 1914 m
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.

(4.02 km) Int of Main Range and Blue Lake Lookout tracks to Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 881 m Time = 17 mins
Climb = 60 m Descent = -7 m
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].

(4.9 km) Int of Main Range and Mt Twynam tracks to Carruthers Peak
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 862 m Time = 18 mins
Climb = 99 m Descent = -2 m
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 Alt = 2139 m
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.

(5.76 km) Carruthers Peak to Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 4.22 km Time = 1 hr 29 mins
Climb = 105 m Descent = -235 m
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).

(9.98 km) Int of Main Range and Muellers Peak track to Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons Creek track
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 203 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 3 m Descent = -7 m
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).

(10.19 km) Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons creek track to Wilkinsons creek
Optional sidetrip: Route: Hard - undefined
Length = 779 m Time = 16 mins
Climb = 1 m Descent = -94 m
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].
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn right to continue along this walk.)

Wilkinsons Creek Alt = 1913 m
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).

(10.19 km) Int of Main Range and Wilkinsons Creek track to Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko walk
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 1.45 km Time = 38 mins
Climb = 159 m Descent = -2 m
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.)

(11.63 km) Int of Main Range track and Kosciuszko path to Mt Kosciuszko
Track: Hard - footpath
Length = 972 m Time = 23 mins
Climb = 76 m Descent = -15 m
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 Alt = 2222 m
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).' [64].

(12.6 km) Mt Kosciuszko to Rawson Pass
Track: Hard - footpath
Length = 1.65 km Time = 39 mins
Climb = 23 m Descent = -127 m
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 Alt = 2119 m
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.

(14.25 km) Rawson Pass to Seamans Hut
Track: Hard - servicetrail
Length = 1.62 km Time = 31 mins
Climb = 15 m Descent = -114 m
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 Alt = 2020 m
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.[84] More info

(15.87 km) Seamans Hut to Snowy River bridge
Track: Hard - servicetrail
Length = 1.5 km Time = 27 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -95 m
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].

(17.37 km) Snowy River bridge to End of Kosciuszko Road
Track: Hard - servicetrail
Length = 4.48 km Time = 1 hr 27 mins
Climb = 73 m Descent = -164 m
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).

Drive from End of Kosciuszko Road
You can drive or ride from this end of this Bushwalk A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.
You can drive or ride from the end of this walk
Use these links to plan your trip from the end of this walk.
Plan your trip to --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|

Getting there

Plan your trip to the start of the walk and back from the end of the walk

Public Transport links currently not working, sorry

Driving Directions
To the start of the walk

Drive from:
From the end of the walk

Drive to:


Near by


Campsites in the park
Black Perry Rest area
Blue Waterholes Picnic and camping Grounds
Bradneys Gap Camping area
Buddong Falls
Clover Flat camping area
Cooinbil Camping area
Cooleman Mountain Camping Area
Coonara Point Camping Area
Denison Camping area
Geehi Picnic Camping Ground
Ghost Gully Camping Ground
Half-way Flat camping area
Humes Crossing Camping area
Island Bend Camping area
Jacobs River Picnic And Camping Area
Jounama Creek Camping Area
Leather Barrel Picnic And Camping Area
Log Bridge Creek Camping area
Long Plain Hut Camping Area
Ngarigo Picnic And Camping Area
OHares Rest Area
Pinch River Camping area
Ravine Camping area
Rock Flat Camping Area
Rocky Plain Camping Ground
Running waters Camping area
Scotchies Yard Camping area
The Pines Camping Area
Thredbo Diggings Camping area
Three Mile Dam Camping area
Tom Groggin Picnic And Camping Area
Wares Yards Camping Ground
Willis Camping Area
Yarrangobilly Village Camping Area
Yachting Point Camping area
Yolde Camping Area
No Name camping area


Nearest know Outdoor Stores near the start of this walk
Store Address Phone Distance (straight line)
Paddy Pallin Adventure Centre Thredbo Turnoff, Jindabyne (02) 6456 2922 24 km
Larry Adler Ski & Outdoor 3 Nuggets Crsng, Jindabyne (02) 6457 2233 26.1 km
Wilderness Sports Nuggets Crossing, Jindabyne 1800 654 168 26.1 km
Snowy Camping World 106 Sharp St , Cooma (02) 6452 2729 74.8 km
Tumuts Fishing Camping & Outdoor 56 Wynyard St , Tumut (02) 6947 1100 126.1 km


A list of the nearest UHF CB repeaters I found to Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko.
Channel Call sign
(more info)
Site Distance and dir from Main Range Walk - Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko
Click to re-center search
2 KHN02 Fire Tower MT YOUNGAL 19 km (to the WNW)
2 1227833 Commsite INGEBIRAH TRIG 26 km (to the SSE)
1 1227830 Country Energy/Monaro County Council Site JINDERBOINE HILL 30 km (to the E)
3 EUC03 Bald Hill via EUCUMBENE 41 km (to the NNE)
3 MTI03 Broadcast/Comms Site Mt Ikes via TUMBARUMBA 68 km (to the NNW)

Weather and Park info

Fire Danger
This walk passes Monaro Alpine fire area which currently has a LOW MODERATE rating and No fire ban in place.
(Tomorrow the Fire Danger Rating is LOW MODERATE, No fire ban.) (Downloaded 7 years ago)
This walk passes Southern Slopes fire area which currently has a LOW MODERATE rating and No fire ban in place.
(Tomorrow the Fire Danger Rating is LOW MODERATE, No fire ban.) (Downloaded 7 years ago)
Please Note: 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 and Climate
Weather and Climate summary detailed weather and climate information here
°C (feels like °)
km/h from the
% humidity     (as at )
Wed      19°Wind easing. Partly cloudy.
Thu|19°Partly cloudy.
Fri|16°Mostly sunny.
Sat|13°Mostly sunny.
A graph displaying the average daily temperature range for the year

Kosciuszko National Park Link to official closures and fire bans page

Region: South Coast & Highlands
Park fees Camping Facilities
Current Park Closure information for Kosciuszko National Park
Closure information last downloaded Sunday 27th of September 2015 07:00 AM
Closed areas: Thredbo Diggings campground closed to caravans
Thredbo Diggings campground is currently closed to all caravans and camping trailers due to continuing wet conditions. There will be limited sites available for tents. Caravans and camping trailer sites are available at Ngarigo, Island Bend and Tom Groggin campgrounds. For more information please phone (02) 6450 5620.

Closed areas: Island Bend campground partially closed due to maintenance
Partial closure of Island Bend campground due to maintenance. Camp sites are now available at the lower camp at Island Bend in Kosciuszko National Park. Other sites have been fenced and will remain closed for 6 to 12 months following capping works to ameliorate the asbestos risk and to allow for revegetation. Please observe all signs and closures. For more information, please contact Andrew Miller at the NPWS Jindabyne Office or on 0427 437391 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page. Download a map of the closed area.

Closed areas: Winter road closures
The following roads will be closed until the October long weekend, unless weather allows them to be opened in late September:
  • Behrs Flat trail
  • Blue Waterholes trail
  • Broken Cart trail
  • Bullocks Hill trail
  • Cabramurra - Khancoban Road (KNP5)
  • Cumberland trail
  • Four Mile Hill trail
  • Geehi Dam Road (Olsen's Road)
  • Goobragandra Powerline Road
  • Kings Cross Road
  • Link Road
  • Long Plain Road
  • Major Clews Road
  • Manjar Road
  • Perisher to Charlotte Pass
  • Pocket Saddle Road
  • Port Phillip trail
  • Tantangra Dam Road
  • Three Mile Dam access trails
  • Davies Plain track
and all associated subsidiary roads and access trails.
The Murray River crossing into Victoria at Tom Groggin campground is closed until 29 October 2015 due to winter road closures by Parks Victoria. There will be no access into Davies Plain, Mt Pinnibar and Tom Groggin fire trails in the Victorian Alpine National Park.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact the NPWS Tumut Visitor Centre on (02) 6497 7025 or the NPWS Snowy Region Visitor Centre on (02) 6450 5600, or visit the NSW National Parks safety page.

Closed areas: Thredbo Valley track reopening Sunday 27 September 2015
Sections 1 and 2 (Thredbo to Ngarigo) of the Thredbo Valley track will be reopening on Sunday 27 September 2015. The track from The Diggings to Skitube- Bullocks Flat, Bullocks Hut and Lake Crackenback Resort will remain open. The Bullocks and Muzzlewood tracks will also remain open. For more information, please contact the Snowy Region Visitor Centre, Jindabyne on (02) 6450 5600 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.


Walker Feedback

Comments
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Mario - Feedback on Main Range Walk IP:203.24.7.xxx | 2011-01-31 03:11:58
Great walk, im quite a newbie to hiking/camping in the bush and found this challenging but also fun. (i went with 4 other people at my level, and did it over 2 days ie. day 1: start --> wilkinsons creek; day 2: wilkinsons creek --> finish)

We missed the wilkinson's creek turn-off, which we found out when we came to the rawson's pass signage. So we had to backtrack, and use the topographic maps (since we couldnt find the 'faint track') to guess where wilkinsons creek was.

We made our own way there through the bush.. and eventually found the 'faint-track'. The next morning we followed the faint track up 80% of the way to the saddle, but never quite made it to the saddle.. ie. the faint track turned almost to the point of being parallel to the main track.. so as soon as we saw the 'parallel' main track, we got off the faint track and crossed over to the main track.

Anyway i guess it would help if there was signage from the main track - the whereabouts of the faint track to wilkinsons creek. esp. since we couldn't find any other tents camping for that night.
admin - re: Feedback on Main Range Wal Super Administrator | 2011-02-02 00:03:20
Mario wrote:
Great walk, im quite a newbie to hiking/camping in the bush and found this challenging but also fun.

Hi Mario
Glad you had a good walk and found the campsite. I can't see a signpost been installed at that point, the campsite is really a place for people who, as you did, found it by using the map and notes (and a little exploring). I had another look at the notes to see if I could make it clearer, but really could not see how, but let me know if you have any suggestions.
Matt :)
Stephen - Mt Townsend side trip IP:27.33.63.xxx | 2011-03-09 09:07:58
Can you tell me if the Mt Townsend side trip on the main range track is clearly sign posted ?

Thanks
admin - re: Mt Townsend side trip Super Administrator | 2011-03-09 22:06:07
Stephen wrote:
Can you tell me if the Mt Townsend side trip on the main range track is clearly sign posted ?

Hi Stephen
It is not signposted nor is it a particularly obvious intersection. The track is very faint, so you need to be paying attention to your map and notes to spot it. The track does become clearer after about 100m.
Here is a photo returning from Townsend just before getting to the Main Range Track (the group of people)
http://www.wildwalks.com/i.html?image_id=267110
These notes might be more helpful for you.
http://www.wildwalks.com/bushwalking-and-hiking-in-nsw/kosciuszko-np-south/charlottes-pass-main-range-loop-camping-at-mt-townsend.html
Have a great walk.
Matt :)
Josh - A quick question IP:64.255.164.xxx | 2011-03-19 01:13:58
I am doing this walk on the easter long weekend but from thredbo. I was wondering which way around will be easiest.
admin - re: A quick question Super Administrator | 2011-03-20 21:05:11
Josh wrote:
I am doing this walk on the easter long weekend but from thredbo. I was wondering which way around will be easiest.

I don't think the direction makes a great deal of difference on how much effort the walk requires. I think that walking the circuit in an anti-clockwise direction is the safer option - this way you cross the rivers earlier in the walk - therefore if they are impassable you should have enough light to turn around and head back.
Matt :)
Kym - best time IP:203.13.70.xxx | 2011-06-07 03:28:43
A friend and I are looking at doing this walk as a day walk in Early November.

We are in our 50's and not gung-ho. We did do the Inca Trail a couple of years ago though!

In your opinion, what is the best time of year to do this walk, and is it quite achievable in a day, if bad weather came in?

Oh, also, are there any steep drop-off's along the way.

Thanks!
admin - re: best time Super Administrator | 2011-06-08 02:18:48
Kym wrote:
A friend and I are looking at doing this walk as a day walk in Early November......

Great, should be OK, just keep an eye on the amount of snow around (see link in blue box at top of tracknotes). If there is still much snow, then you may want to carry snowshoes.

Kym wrote:
In your opinion, what is the best time of year to do this walk, and is it quite achievable in a day, if bad weather came in?.....

Summer is the most popular time of year, Particularly Jan and Feb when the weather is a little more stable. In favorable weather doable in a day, but you do want an early start to give you enough time. You do need to be prepared for the weather to turn in, but do check the forecast just before you go.

Kym wrote:

Oh, also, are there any steep drop-off's along the way.

A few, they are mentioned in the notes. Main ones are near Club Lake and Albina Lake. Stay on the track, and if there is much snow/ice around consider using snowshoes with crampons (unlikely to be needed in summer, but it is the mountains, anything can happen).

Enjoy
Matt :)
Melissa IP:152.91.8.xxx | 2012-01-10 01:15:12
Did this walk on New Years Day - the weather was superb, and the wildflowers spectacular. The walk is challenging, but well worth the effort - and very quiet. The summit, however, was very busy! I wish we'd stopped longer at Mt Carruthers as the view from there was superior to the view from the summit, and it was much more peaceful. Next time will camp overnight to enjoy the peace and serenity more.
Highly recommended.
Tim - Walk Info? IP:120.18.60.xxx | 2012-01-14 10:32:28
Hi my wife and I are planing to do this walk on the easter long weekend. We will obviously have clothing etc for all types of weather but what weather conditions could we expect this time of year? We plan to do this walk and one other can anyone suggest another work to do the following day. we are both in our late 20s with reasonable fitness.

Many thanks
admin - re: Walk Info? Super Administrator | 2012-01-15 08:46:13
Hi Tim
Tim wrote:
but what weather conditions could we expect this time of year?

really could be anything (and everything). Normally you would have nice big blue skys, but it could range from really hot and dry, to snowing to very windy, raining or thunderstormy. You really have to check the forecast before heading off. Normally I would walk with a sunshirt and shorts, but carry clothing to deal potential with wind/rain and snow. Be prepared to pull out if the weather forecast is not favorable.

Tim wrote:
can anyone suggest another work [sic] to do the following day.

Here are some ideas
http://www.wildwalks.com/bushwalking-and-hiking-in-nsw/kosciuszko-np-south/dead-horse-gap-and-thredbo-river-loop.html
http://www.wildwalks.com/bushwalking-and-hiking-in-nsw/kosciuszko-np-south/guthega-to-illawong-lodge.html
http://www.wildwalks.com/bushwalking-and-hiking-in-nsw/kosciuszko-np-south/merrits-nature-track.html
http://www.wildwalks.com/bushwalking-and-hiking-in-nsw/kosciuszko-np-south/porcupine-track.html
Hope they help
Happy walking
Matt :)
Vru - Wilkinson's Creek IP:124.179.86.xxx | 2012-01-23 09:59:47
Hi, my husband and I are planning on doing this walk on the Easter weekend. We are considering the overnight halt at Wilkinson's creek. Is this creek reasonably easy to find? We haven't done any overnight treks before and just hesitant as to how what materials we might need to carry. Do you know if the water in the park is ok for drinking if it is boiled?
Looking forward to the adventure!
Many thanks!
admin - re: Wilkinson's Creek Super Administrator | 2012-01-27 06:50:09
Hi Vru
Thanks for the note
Vru wrote:
Is this creek reasonably easy to find?

If you take the correct turn off, the creek is easy to find, it is in a very open area and winds through the valley floor. But the turn off is not signposted and the track is very faint, so you will need to be paying close attention to the notes and maps.

Vru wrote:
We haven't done any overnight treks before and just hesitant as to how what materials we might need to carry. Do you know if the water in the park is ok for drinking if it is boiled?


This walk is in an alpine area, the weather give you very high winds, snow and ice (yes even in summer). You can also get extreamly hot weather as well. You will need to have enough skill and equipment to deal with such extremes. I would suggest having a chat with someone you know who has walked in the area (or a similar area), to be sure you are up for it.
Having said that if the weather is favourable then this is just a magic area.
Personally I treat the water before drinking it. Boiling it will do the trick nicely.
Happy walking
Matt :)
KathFern - Charlottes Pass - Blue Lake - IP:202.168.107.xxx | 2013-11-24 11:02:57
Did this yesterday. Wonderful but hard walk. Lots of snow drifts to walk through. One of the snow drifts too tricky to walk through so had to climb down and around. Weather was freezing, required thermals. Views spectacular.
andrew porter - Walker with kids IP:148.122.197.xxx | 2014-02-16 09:38:40
Should a fit 11 year old be able to make this trek ? we want to do it this weekend. I remember doing it as a kid around 12 but just thought I would pose the question.
Nicola thomson - Walk at Easter? IP:101.119.16.xxx | 2014-04-18 11:26:03
I'm hoping to do this walk with my boyfriend next week (end of April). BOM doesn't look like there is snow. Is it ok to do at this time of year? We are both fairly fit and want to do the walk in 1 day.
Really appreciate any feedback! Thanks
Natalie - October long weekend IP:203.29.148.xxx | 2014-09-17 13:56:45
Hey there,

Three friends and I, who love day hiking and do it every weekend in the Blue Mountains, are going down to Kosciuszko over the October long weekend.

We've never camped in snow before, but know we have the proper equipment (we have done so much research, bought adequate sleeping bags and tents and have been preparing for the trip) the only thing we need is snow shoes, which we are renting down there.

As we've never walked/camped in the snow before, I guess I just wanted to know how feasible doing this walk is. We will definitely be doing a walk, but we're trying to decide which one. We want to camp in the snow, and are contemplating getting a guide to help us out for a few hours before/during our first day.

None of us have anything more than absolutely basic nav skills, if that, and am just wondering how much navigation will be necessary and how hard the walk will be, given the long season this year, I am a little cautious about our walk through the snow.

We want to do two days, definitely camp in the snow, and then summit Mt Kosci, weather permitting. Would really love to hear about what other people's current experiences are and firsthand accounts of what else we might be able to expect.

What are your thoughts?

Thanks so much in advance.
Nat
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