Mount Kosciuszko in the Snowy Mountains is part of the Seven Summits — the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. But unlike the other six, you don’t need any mountaineering or technical climbing skills to conquer it. You could reach the top on an easy day hike without any equipment. While seemingly paltry in comparison to the other peaks in terms of height, Mt Kosciuszko offers stunning sights, alpine wildflowers and beautiful wilderness. Rising to an elevation of 2,228 metres in the heart of the Australian Alps, it’s a fraction of the height of Mount Everest which stands at a towering 8,849 m but this also means that it’s a lot less treacherous and a whole lot more accessible. Here’s everything you need to know about Australia’s highest mountain.
Mount Kosciuszko, NSW
Part of the Kosciuszko National Park, the Mt Kosciuszko hike is considered one of Australia’s best with an estimated 100,000 climbers reaching the peak each year. You can take the chairlift from Thredbo for a faster and easier climb or reach the summit via Charlotte Pass but only Thredbo offers the chairlift experience.
Following the picturesque chairlift ride, you will traverse past the Ramshead Range, an easy alpine route in the park, crossing over the Snowy River and passing Seamans Hut before climbing above Lake Cootapatamba, one of only 5 lakes formed by glacial activity in Australia and on to Rawson Pass, located just below the summit of the mountain. The final two kilometres are steep but not too hard, so go at your own pace. In spring, the track is lined by alpine wildflowers and boasts fantastic views of the Snowy Mountains and Victorian High Country.
The hike from Thredbo would take roughly 4 to 5 hours return or 6 to 8 hours from Charlotte Pass.
What is the best time to climb Mount Kosciuszko?
March to May are generally considered the best months to climb the peak because of the warmer weather and the blooming wildflowers. Between June and October, the walk is snowbound and therefore not recommended but Mount Kosciuszko does transform into a popular location for skiing. Because of Australia’s unpredictable weather, it can snow in the region as early as March.
What do you need for the hike?
The simple walk does not need any equipment and anyone with a moderate level of fitness can climb the peak. Sturdy hiking boots are essential along with sunscreen and appropriate clothing as it can get cold on the mountain. While there is no need for hiking poles, make the choice depending on your fitness level and comfort. Find more bushwalking tips on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Getting there
Mount Kosciuszko is around 5 hours drive from Sydney. There is no effective public transport route here, however, NSW Trainlink operates coaches to Jindabyne all year round, from Canberra so you could catch the train from Central to Canberra (around a 3.5-hour journey) and then book a connecting coach. You can also book a shuttle bus from Jindabyne to Thredbo.
Read more about the hike here.