Kosciuszko Walking Holidays, Snowy Mountains

18.6km return, 6 - 8 hours, start and end at Charlotte Pass (10 minute drive)

A section of the longer main range walk, this track is a favourite among our walking holiday guests who wish to conquer Australia's highest peak, Mt Kosciuszko (2228m). This is a long but easy walk for scenic Snowy Mountains hiking but can also be undertaken as a mountain bike ride. Either way your journey begins along the historic road at Charlotte Pass, a 10 minute drive from Valhalla Perisher. The road winds through the magnificent alpine landscape framed by Australia’s highest peaks. You'll cross the Snowy River, see unique rock formations and gradually ascend to the Seaman's Hut, built in 1929. Continuing along the winding track you'll arrive at Rawson Pass. Here cyclists must leave their bikes with everyone making the final 1.4km ascent on foot. In early summer, you can admire the vibrant wildflower displays, featuring marsh marigolds, silver snow daisies, mountain roses, and buttercups. Return to Charlotte Pass along the same route. 

Image: Remy Brand/DCCEEW

10km return, 4 hours, start and end at Charlotte Pass (10 minute drive)

The spectacular Blue Lake is one of just four cirque lakes found on mainland Australia, making it a must-visit spot for those on a Kosciuszko walking holiday. Blue Lake and it's magnificent valley can be viewed from the lookout which offers breathtaking views over this expansive glacial area. 

Designated as a Ramsar Wetland of international significance in 1996, Blue Lake is a rare example of a nearly pristine alpine wetland. It supports several threatened and endangered species, including the mountain pygmy-possum, alpine tree frog, and anemone buttercup. Due to environmental conservation, the track from the lookout to the lake may or may not be closed, however this walk remains one of our favourite Snowy Mountains hiking experiences and should not be missed. When visiting Blue Lake lookout, please stick to the designated paths to help protect this delicate environment. 

Image: Daniel Parsons/DCCEEW

5km return, 1.5 - 3 hours, start and end Valhalla Perisher

With its variety of landscapes— through open woodlands, wet heath, snowgum forest, wildflower fields and rugged alpine terrain —this walk is a nature lover's paradise. The option to loop back via Mt Wheatley and Kosciuszko Road adds flexibility, allowing you to personalise your experience based on time and energy levels.

When you reach Porcupine Rocks stop and enjoy a break or a rockside picnic lunch overlooking the magnificent panoramic views. This is a great short day option to add to your walking holiday itinerary.

8km return, 3hours, start and end Valhalla Perisher

Another option for a shorter day on your walking holiday, start your hike by heading out along the typically deserted roads of Perisher Valley. As you walk through the sleepy village, you'll pass by the alpine chalets of South and North Perisher, follow an alpine creek and be surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Perisher Ski Resort.  Enjoy a steady ascent up to Blue Cow where you can enjoy spectacular views across the area, and then retrace your steps or return continuing along the service trail into Perisher Valley.

5km return from Guthega, 2 - 3hours, start and end at Guthega (20 minute drive)

Starting in Guthega Village, just past Guthega Dam, the Illawong Walk is a shorter section of the Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk and the Snowies Alpine Walk. This section follows alongside the Snowy River Valley, passing through alpine heath, wildflower fields and under majestic snow gums towards the Illawong Hut, one of Kosciuszko National Park's oldest remaining huts. You will have the opportunity to cross over the Illawong Suspension Bridge and on warmer days, take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the Snowy River. Enjoy a riverside picnic before returning the same route back to Guthega village. 

0.4km return, 15 - 30 minutes, start and end at Charlotte Pass (10 minute drive)

This fabulous walking track is perfect for those wanting to enjoy the sights of Mount Kosciuszko and the main range without having to hike to the summit. The boardwalk offers a relatively accessible pathway and includes two lookout platforms. The views are breathtaking, showcasing sweeping mountain panoramas and vast alpine landscapes, with the Snowy River winding below. True to its name, this trail allows you to get up close to snowgums, some of which are hundreds of years old, uniquely twisted and stunted by the powerful forces of wind, snow, and ice. 

2.5km return, 45min - 1.5hour, start and end at Dainers Gap (10 minute drive)

This enchanting short walk takes you through a snowgum forest and vibrant alpine grasslands filled with wildflowers, butterflies, and grasshoppers. As you emerge out of the trees, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the beautiful Rainbow Lake, originally the water supply for the Hotel Kosciuszko. Enjoy the trail as a leisurely short walk or opt to extend your hike along the unmarked trail encompassing the lake. Bring your fishing rod for some fly fishing! A great walk for families or those who want to add a short hike to their Valhalla Perisher walking holiday. 

6km loop, 1.5hour - 2.5hour, start and end at Sawpitt Creek (15 minute drive)

The Waterfall Walking Track, abundant with wildlife is an excellent choice for nearly any weather, offering a sheltered route in Kosciuszko under the canopy of the towering eucalypt forest. This scenic loop immerses you in a diverse array of rugged sub-alpine landscapes throughout your journey. Starting creekside the invigorating sound of flowing water accompanies you as you venture deeper into the bushland, ultimately leading you to a stunning cascading waterfall that bursts forth from the forest. Your hike continues past boulder outcrops and allows you to marvel at the magnificent alpine ash trees towering above the path. These resilient giants which have persevered through the challenges of past logging, can reach heights of up to 90 meters. Be sure to keep an eye out for the local wildlife; wallabies and kangaroos are common sights, while the trees are alive with various birds. A drink break or picnic in the Sawpit picnic area and you have a great short walk to add to your Valhalla Perisher walking holiday! Combine this walk with the Pallaibo or Sawpit walk for a longer duration.

2km return, 45min - 1.5hour, start and end at Sawpitt Creek (15 minute drive)

This easy walk is great for the whole family through Kosciuszko bushland filled with candlebark and mountain gum. This area is abundant with wildlife so keep your eye out for wallabies, kangaroos and birds. Look for trout in the crystal clear waters of the creek. Enjoy your lunch in the picnic area. Extend this walk by adding the Waterfall Walk or Pallaibo Walk.

5.5km one way, 1.5hour - 2.5hour, start Sawpitt Creek (15 minute drive), end at Thredbo River (20 minutes) or Gaden Trout Hatchery (25 minutes drive)

The Pallaibo Walking Track starts in Sawpit Creek picnic area and concludes by the shores of the picturesque Thredbo River picnic area.  It's a fabulous Kosciuszko walk, often abundant with wildlife and under the canopy offering the perfect option for hotter or rainy conditions. The path will take you through dry eucalypt forest, past the Sawpit Falls and Charlie's Cascades and onto open grassland before reaching the valley floor at the crystal clear Thredbo River. Stop for a riverside break or picnic lunch. This picturesque spot is popular for fishing and immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature.