Kosciuszko National Park: Summit Walks from Thredbo and Charlotte Pass

If standing on the highest point in Australia has long lived on your bucket list, Kosciuszko National Park delivers an alpine adventure that is surprisingly achievable. Set in the heart of New South Wales’ Snowy Mountains, the Mount Kosciuszko summit walks from Thredbo and Charlotte Pass blend big mountain views with well maintained tracks, alpine wildflowers, glacial lakes, and a tangible sense of being on top of the continent. Whether you want a family friendly day out or a full alpine loop that dreams are made of, this guide will help you choose the right route, plan with confidence, and make the most of every magnificent step.

Why Hike to the Summit of Mount Kosciuszko?

• Australia’s highest peak, 2228 metres above sea level
• Well graded tracks and boardwalks that make alpine walking accessible to more people
• Spectacular panoramas across the Main Range and the Snowy Mountains
• Summer wildflowers and rare alpine ecosystems protected by raised pathways
• Fascinating alpine history, including Seamans Hut and the Snowy River hydro story
• A true sense of achievement at the summit trig and a photo you will treasure

It is hard to believe that reaching the highest point on a continent can be a relaxed day hike. Yet Kosciuszko National Park offers exactly that. Alpine weather can be serious and the distances are real, but the infrastructure is exceptional, the signage is clear, and there are several ways to tailor the day to your fitness, timeframe, and appetite for adventure.

Choosing Your Route to the Top

There are three classic ways to stand at the summit of Mount Kosciuszko.

• Thredbo Summit Walk via chairlift: the most popular, around 13 km return from the top chairlift station, 4 to 5 hours, gentle gradients and long sections of raised metal walkway
• Charlotte Pass Summit Walk: 18.6 km return on the historic Summit Road corridor, 6 to 8 hours, steady climb, wide management trail suits steady pacing
• Main Range Walk via Blue Lake and Carruthers Peak: around 22 km as a loop from Charlotte Pass, 7 to 9 hours, a grand high country circuit that includes the summit and the region’s famous glacial lakes

If you are hiking with children, first timers, or anyone who would prefer to keep the elevation gain modest, start from Thredbo. If you want a quiet, classic approach along the valley of the Snowy River, choose Charlotte Pass. If you are ready for the Snowy Mountains at their sublime best, the Main Range loop is an unforgettable full day out.

The Thredbo Summit Walk

The Thredbo route is the easiest way to the roof of Australia, thanks to the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift which lifts you straight into the alpine zone. From Eagles Nest at the top station, the path to Rawson Pass is well built and mostly on raised walkway, designed to protect the fragile alpine heath. It is a brilliant option for families, mixed ability groups, and anyone who wants a big payoff for a comfortable effort.

Snapshot

• Distance: about 13 km return from the top of the chairlift
• Time: 4 to 5 hours return at a relaxed pace
• Grade: easy to moderate, steady gradients
• Elevation: around 300 metres gain from Eagles Nest to the summit, with gentle undulation
• Season: best from late October to April, check for snow patches early or late in the season

Note: Distances and times vary with conditions and side trips. Always allow extra time for photos, weather changes, and rests.

Getting to the Trailhead

• Drive to Thredbo Village in Kosciuszko National Park. From Canberra allow about 2.5 hours, from Sydney about 5.5 to 6 hours, from Melbourne about 6 to 7 hours.
• Park entry fees apply for vehicles entering the national park. You can purchase a day or annual pass online or at entry stations. Fees are higher during the winter snow season.
• In Thredbo, buy a chairlift ticket for the Kosciuszko Express. Lift operating hours vary by season, so check times and plan your return to avoid missing the last download.

Riding the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift

Your day begins with a scenic lift that sweeps above snow gums and mountain streams to Eagles Nest at around 1937 metres. On a clear day the views set the tone for the hike, and you can grab a coffee or breakfast at the Eagles Nest restaurant before stepping onto the track.

Pro tip: If lift queues are likely during peak summer holidays, buy tickets in advance and start early. Morning light is soft and the alpine breeze is usually gentler.

On the Track: What You Will See

From Eagles Nest, the Kosciuszko Walk threads out across rolling alpine meadows on a sturdy metal mesh walkway. This protects delicate plants and keeps your boots dry. Highlights unfold steadily:

• Kosciuszko Lookout: a signed viewpoint early in the walk offers a first grand glimpse of the summit and the broad shoulders of the Main Range.
• Lake Cootapatamba Lookout: Australia’s highest lake sits in a cirque below the ridge. The lookout gives a classic alpine scene, especially when late season snow drapes the gullies.
• Wildflowers and snow gums: in summer the heath erupts with alpine daisies, mountain heath, buttercups, and paper daisies. Twisted snow gums frame many of the views.
• Rawson Pass: after a steady traverse, the walkway meets the old Summit Road at Rawson Pass, where you will find signage and Australia’s highest public toilet. Take a breather and soak in the views.
• Final summit spur: a well graded path climbs the final 1.4 km or so to the trig marker at 2228 metres. On clear days you can see for hundreds of kilometres across the Snowy Mountains and into Victoria.

Keep an eye out for small birds like flame robins and silvereyes, and listen for the call of ravens on the wind. The rare mountain pygmy possum lives in the high boulder fields but is seldom seen.

Who This Route Suits

• Families and first time summit hikers
• Walkers who prefer a shorter distance and less elevation gain
• People with limited time who still want the full summit experience
• Photographers looking for dependable light and big skies without technical terrain

Tips for the Thredbo Route

• Check lift times and weather forecasts before you go. Conditions can change quickly at altitude.
• Start early to avoid crowds on peak summer days and to allow time to linger at viewpoints.
• Carry warm layers even in midsummer. A sunny village morning can turn into a chilly alpine afternoon.
• Fill up water before you ride the lift. There is no reliable drinking water on the track. The toilet at Rawson Pass is for human waste only.
• Stay on the boardwalk. Alpine plants grow slowly and are easily damaged.

The Charlotte Pass Summit Walk

The Charlotte Pass approach follows the historic Summit Road corridor into the high country. It is longer than the Thredbo route, but the wide, consistent grade makes it a steady and satisfying hike. You will walk beside the Snowy River, pass Seamans Hut, and arrive at Rawson Pass before that final, shared push to the summit.

Snapshot

• Distance: 18.6 km return to the summit
• Time: 6 to 8 hours return, steady pace with photo stops
• Grade: moderate, consistent climb on a wide management trail
• Elevation: around 400 metres gain from Charlotte Pass to the summit, plus undulations
• Season: best from November to April, often snow covered outside of these months

Getting There and Parking

• Drive to Charlotte Pass via the Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne and Perisher. The road beyond Perisher closes in winter, typically from the June long weekend to October long weekend. In winter, access to Charlotte Pass Village is by oversnow transport only.
• In summer, limited parking is available at Charlotte Pass. Arrive early in peak periods.
• Park entry fees apply for vehicles. Purchase a pass before entering the park.

On the Track: Charlotte Pass Highlights

• Snowy River crossing: the track descends gently to cross the Snowy River via a bridge. Early in the season the river is in full voice, fed by melting snow.
• Hedley Tarn and Club Lake viewpoints: short side tracks offer views of high country tarns and classic glacial features. They add a little time, and a lot of reward.
• Seamans Hut: built as a memorial to two skiers who perished in a blizzard in 1928, this historic stone hut is an atmospheric rest point. In bad weather, huts are emergency shelters, not picnic spots, so always show respect and keep them clean.
• Rawson Pass: where the Charlotte Pass Summit Walk meets the Thredbo track. From here, join the well trodden path to the summit for the final climb.
• Summit trig: the broad summit plateau is crowned by the trig marker and wrapped in a 360 degree panorama, from the Main Range and Rams Head Range to the Australian Alps beyond.

This route gives you a gradual build up to the summit and a sense of alpine scale that grows with every kilometre.

Mountain Biking to Rawson Pass

In the summer season, bicycles are permitted on the management trail between Charlotte Pass and Rawson Pass. Cyclists must dismount and walk the final section to the summit. If you prefer to combine a ride with a short walk, this is a great way to experience the high country while keeping the hiking distance modest. Always give way to walkers, control your speed, and stay on the designated trail.

Who This Route Suits

• Walkers who prefer a wide, firm trail and a steady grade
• Hikers seeking a quieter alternative to Thredbo during peak holiday periods
• Photographers and nature lovers who want to linger by the Snowy River and alpine tarns

Tips for the Charlotte Pass Route

• Start early to leave time for side trips to Hedley Tarn or Club Lake.
• Carry enough water for the full day. Do not drink from streams unless you treat the water.
• Be prepared for more exposure to wind on the wide management trail. A windproof layer is essential.
• In spring, snow drifts can linger on shaded sections. Check track conditions before you go.

The Main Range Walk via Blue Lake and Carruthers Peak

If you love big loops that link the most dramatic parts of a landscape, the Main Range Track is your must do line. This classic circuit captures Blue Lake, Carruthers Peak, Lake Albina, and the summit itself before returning to Charlotte Pass. It is longer and more exposed than the other options, with sections that feel remote, and the views are simply outstanding.

Snapshot

• Distance: about 22 km as a loop from Charlotte Pass, including the summit
• Time: 7 to 9 hours depending on fitness, photo stops, and weather
• Grade: moderate to hard due to length, elevation, and exposure
• Highlights: Blue Lake, Hedley Tarn, Main Range ridgelines, Carruthers Peak, Lake Albina, Rawson Pass, summit panorama
• Season: late spring to early autumn, subject to snow and weather

Route Description

• Start at Charlotte Pass and head clockwise towards the Snowy River crossing. A bridge carries you safely across.
• Climb steadily to Blue Lake Lookout. Blue Lake is one of Australia’s few glacial lakes, set in a cirque beneath granite walls. This is one of the finest alpine viewpoints in the country.
• Continue along the Main Range Track to Carruthers Peak. The track is well formed but more rugged than the Summit Road, with rocky steps and exposed sections. The ridgeline walking is sublime.
• Traverse past Lake Albina and descend to the junction near Rawson Pass. Take the side track to the summit and savor the moment.
• Return via the old Summit Road past Seamans Hut back to Charlotte Pass, or continue the loop via the Main Range if you have time and energy.

The clockwise direction gives you Blue Lake early in the day and positions the summit later, when crowds may have thinned.

Who This Route Suits

• Experienced day hikers with good fitness
• Walkers who want the full alpine experience, including the most photogenic lakes
• Photographers and nature enthusiasts happy to spend a long, rewarding day on the high country

Photography Highlights

• Early light on Blue Lake’s cirque walls and reflections
• Grand ridgeline views near Carruthers Peak
• The classic summit panorama, with rolling ranges fading into the distance

Weather, Seasons, and the Best Time to Hike

Alpine weather is famously fickle. A bluebird morning can turn cloudy and cold by afternoon, and even summer days can bring strong wind or brief hail showers. Plan with flexibility and pack for more than you expect.

• Summer, December to February: the most popular time. Long days, stable weather, and peak wildflowers. Afternoon thunderstorms can bubble up, so start early.
• Spring, October to November: snow patches linger and wildflowers begin. Some sections can be slippery and streams run high. Check conditions.
• Autumn, March to April: crisp air, fewer crowds, stable weather windows. Shorter daylight hours mean earlier starts and headlamps are essential.
• Winter, May to September: these summit tracks are usually snow covered. Many hikers swap boots for skis or snowshoes. The road beyond Perisher to Charlotte Pass closes during the snow season and Thredbo becomes a ski resort hub. If you plan alpine touring, ensure you have winter skills, avalanche awareness for cornices and snow slopes, and appropriate gear.

Temperature, wind, and UV: Even when it feels cool, UV radiation is intense at altitude. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses with UV protection, and a brimmed hat. A cold wind can sap heat quickly, so pack a windproof jacket and an insulated layer in every season.

Essential Planning: Fees, Passes, and Safety

• Park entry fees: A Kosciuszko National Park pass is required for vehicles. Buy online before you arrive or at the entry stations. Fees differ by season, with higher winter rates.
• Chairlift tickets: If walking from Thredbo, you will need a lift ticket for the Kosciuszko Express unless you choose to hike from the village. Check seasonal hours and pricing.
• Facilities: Toilets are located at Rawson Pass and at the start points. There is no potable water on the tracks.
• Navigation: Tracks are well marked, with signage and snow poles. Carry a map or offline app and know how to use it, especially for the Main Range.
• Emergencies: Mobile coverage can be patchy. Carry a power bank, and consider a personal locator beacon for longer or shoulder season hikes.
• Leave No Trace: Stay on formed tracks and boardwalks, pack out all rubbish, and do not shortcut switchbacks. Alpine plants recover slowly from trampling.
• Huts: Use huts for emergency shelter only. Leave them clean and close doors to keep weather out.
• Drones: Recreational drone use is restricted in many parts of the park. Always check current regulations and obtain permits where required.
• Pets: Dogs are not permitted in Kosciuszko National Park. Leave pets at home or with a sitter.

What to Pack for the Kosciuszko Summit Walk

The right gear can make the difference between a good day and a great one.

Clothing

• Breathable hiking layers, moisture wicking base layer
• Warm mid layer such as fleece or light insulated jacket
• Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
• Sun hat or cap, beanie in shoulder seasons
• Lightweight gloves in case the wind picks up
• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good tread

Essentials

• 2 to 3 litres of water per person for a full day
• High energy snacks and lunch, think nuts, wraps, fruit, bars
• Sunscreen, SPF lip balm, sunglasses with UV protection
• Map or offline navigation app and a charged phone
• Small first aid kit including blister care
• Headlamp with fresh batteries, especially in autumn
• Camera or smartphone for summit shots

Optional extras

• Trekking poles for comfort on longer routes
• Lightweight sit pad for breaks
• Compact windproof layer for rest stops
• Portable power bank for phones and cameras

Sample Itineraries

Family Summit Day from Thredbo

• 8.30 am: Pick up lift tickets and ride the Kosciuszko Express
• 9.00 am: Coffee and a quick bite at Eagles Nest, photo at the lookout
• 9.30 am: Start the Kosciuszko Walk, take your time on the boardwalk
• 11.45 am: Arrive at the summit for lunch and those must have photos
• 12.30 pm: Begin descent, pause at Lake Cootapatamba Lookout
• 3.00 pm: Ride down the chairlift and celebrate in Thredbo Village

Tip: Build in time for kids to explore the interpretive signs and alpine plants along the way.

Quiet Classic from Charlotte Pass

• 7.30 am: Start early from Charlotte Pass to beat the heat and enjoy calm morning light
• 9.00 am: Cross the Snowy River and visit Hedley Tarn Lookout
• 10.30 am: Pause at Seamans Hut for a snack
• 11.30 am: Reach Rawson Pass, refill energy and head for the summit
• 12.00 pm: Summit lunch with a view
• 1.30 pm: Begin the steady return to Charlotte Pass
• 4.30 pm: Finish with time to spare before evening chill sets in

Main Range Showcase Loop

• 7.00 am: Depart Charlotte Pass, clockwise via the Snowy River bridge
• 9.00 am: Blue Lake Lookout in soft morning light
• 11.00 am: Carruthers Peak ridgeline vistas
• 12.30 pm: Reach Rawson Pass, push to the summit
• 1.15 pm: Summit photos and a late lunch
• 2.00 pm: Return via Summit Road and Seamans Hut to Charlotte Pass
• 5.00 pm: Back at the car park, glowing with achievement

Always adjust timing for your pace and current conditions.

Where to Stay and Eat

One of the joys of a Kosciuszko summit trip is the choice of alpine bases, from lively resort villages to peaceful campgrounds.

• Thredbo Village: Hotels, lodges, and apartments sit close to the chairlift. After your hike, enjoy craft beers, bistros, and a mountain village vibe. The Eagles Nest restaurant at the top station is lovely for a pre or post walk treat, subject to opening hours.
• Charlotte Pass: A smaller alpine village with lodges that feel worlds away. Best for those who want to start early on the Charlotte Pass routes and enjoy the quiet of the high country.
• Jindabyne: A lakeside hub with a wide range of accommodation and dining. Ideal if you are exploring more of the Snowy Mountains region.
• Camping: Try Ngarigo or Thredbo Diggings campgrounds along the Thredbo River, or Island Bend on the Guthega Road. Bookings and fees may apply. Facilities are basic, and nights are cold even in summer.

Dining tips: Pack a summit picnic that travels well, then celebrate afterwards with a hearty meal in Thredbo or Jindabyne. Alpine hunger is very real, and you will have earned it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a guide to reach the summit?

No, most people hike independently on the well marked tracks from Thredbo or Charlotte Pass. Guided tours are available for those who want expert interpretation, safety support, or a curated experience.

Can I hike year round?

The summit tracks are typically snow covered in winter and shoulder seasons. Summer and early autumn bring the best walking conditions. In winter, experienced backcountry travelers may ski or snowshoe, but that requires winter skills and equipment.

Are dogs allowed?

No. Pets are not permitted in Kosciuszko National Park to protect native wildlife and fragile ecosystems.

Is there water on the track?

There is no reliable drinking water. Streams may carry giardia or other pathogens. Carry enough water for your day and treat any natural water if you must use it.

Are there toilets on the route?

Yes. There are facilities at Rawson Pass and at the main trailheads. The Rawson Pass toilets are the highest in Australia.

Can I ride a bike to the summit?

Bicycles are permitted from Charlotte Pass to Rawson Pass during the summer season. You must leave bikes at the designated area and walk the final section to the summit. Bikes are not permitted on the Thredbo Kosciuszko Walk.

Is the Thredbo track suitable for prams or wheelchairs?

The Thredbo route includes raised walkways and sections that are not suitable for prams or wheelchairs. The Charlotte Pass Summit Walk is a wide management trail but it is long and steep in places and is not classified as wheelchair accessible.

How crowded does it get?

Thredbo can be busy in peak summer and on holiday weekends. Start early or choose the Charlotte Pass route for a quieter experience. Late afternoon can also be calmer, though you must plan carefully around lift times and daylight.

What permits or passes do I need?

A park entry pass for your vehicle and, if starting from Thredbo, a chairlift ticket. You do not need a hiking permit for day walks. Always check current alerts and any seasonal closures.

Responsible Travel and Respect for Country

Kosciuszko National Park is a place of deep cultural significance to the Ngarigo people. Please show respect by treading lightly, staying on marked trails, and leaving the landscape as you found it. Alpine ecosystems are fragile and slow to recover. The boardwalks and formed tracks are there to protect plants and soils as well as to make your day more comfortable.

Leave No Trace principles help keep this mountain wild for future generations:

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces
• Dispose of waste properly
• Leave what you find
• Minimize campfire impacts
• Respect wildlife
• Be considerate of other visitors

SEO Friendly Quick Facts

• Location: Kosciuszko National Park, Snowy Mountains, NSW
• Highest point: Mount Kosciuszko, 2228 metres
• Main routes: Thredbo Summit Walk, Charlotte Pass Summit Walk, Main Range Walk
• Distances: Thredbo 13 km return, Charlotte Pass 18.6 km return, Main Range 22 km loop
• Best time: November to April for hiking
• Facilities: Toilets at trailheads and at Rawson Pass, no potable water on track
• Fees: Park entry fees apply, chairlift ticket required for Thredbo route

Conclusion: Ready to Stand on Top of Australia?

On the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, with wind in your hair and ranges rolling to every horizon, you feel a simple, pure contentment. You carried yourself to the top of a continent. You traced a path through a rare and precious ecosystem. You watched the color of the mountains change with the light, and you shared a moment that will keep you smiling long after you descend.

Choose your route, pack smart, start early, and step into one of Australia’s iconic walks. Whether you ride the chairlift at Thredbo and stride the boardwalks, follow the Snowy River from Charlotte Pass to Seamans Hut, or embrace the full Main Range loop via Blue Lake and Carruthers Peak, Kosciuszko National Park will reward you at every turn. The summit is waiting. So are unforgettable views, alpine air, and the spirit of adventure that lives in these high, beautiful places.