Jindabyne Walking Trails & Hiking Info
HIKING TRAILS & TIPS
You will be spoilt for choice for hiking in the Mountains! From Lakeside strolls from your Jindabyne accommodation to the big one! Climb Australia’s Highest Peak and anywhere in between, you will not be disappointed in choosing to get a little exercise and see some amazing scenery along the way.
How a track gets its grade?
The grading system assesses a walk’s difficulty based on several criteria, including experience required, steps, gradient, path quality and signage. The walk’s final grade is based on the most difficult of these 5 criteria, rather than an average. So some walks will have criteria that meet an easier grade.
Take a look at our guide below, and before your next adventure ask yourself ‘is this walk suitable for me?’
Grade 1 – No bushwalking experience required. Flat even surface with no steps or steep sections. Suitable for wheelchair users who have someone to assist them. Walks no greater than 5km.
Grade 2 – No bushwalking experience required. The track is hardened or compacted surface and may have a gentle hill section or sections and occasional steps. Walks no greater than 10km.
Grade 3 – Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Some bushwalking experience is recommended. Tracks may have short steep hill sections a rough surface and many steps. Walks up to 20km.
Grade 4 – Bush walking experience recommended. Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signage may be limited.
Grade 5 – Very experienced bushwalkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20km.
JINDABYNE AREA
Jindabyne has a number of trails to get you started. The easiest is to start at Banjo Patterson Park right in the centre of Jindabyne and walk the shared path along the foreshore for 5klms. You will pass some artworks that remain from the Easter Lakelight Sculpture Exhibition. Watch out for trout rising in the early morning and at sunset. Some great viewing areas of Lake Jindabyne and look over where the “Old Jindabyne” once was now under 30 metres of water. Try the Tyrolean Village Shared Trail for a little bit harder workout but still stunning views. This trail extends over the “Dam Wall” for 10 km and winds up and down moderate hills. All with sensational views over the Lake and Mountains.
Hatchery Bay Trail
Distance: 5.3km one way
Grade: 2
Approx time: 2-4 hours
A great trail for all levels, winding it’s way around the lake to Hatchery Bay. Passes through cattle grazing paddocks, so keep an eye out for the odd cow, and make sure you close the gates. The trail head closest to the township of Jindabyne starts at the boat ramp, however you can ride from town along the Jindabyne Community Trail (concrete path), through the caravan park to the trail head at the Jindabyne Boat Ramp,. Tip – In summer take a towel for a lake swim at a private and secluded beach on the way!
PERISHER – CHARLOTTE PASS & GUTHEGA and Snowy Walks
Mt Kosciuszko Summit Hike from Charlotte Pass Village
Distance: 9km one way
Grade: 3
Approx time: 6-8 hours
The one everyone comes for! Summit one of the World’s ‘7Peaks’ and tell your friends!
Denali. (6,194 m) -Mont Blanc. (4,810 m) – Elbrus. (5,642 m) -Everest. (8,848 m) – Kilimanjaro. (5,895 m) – Aconcagua. (6,961 m) – Vinson. (4,892 m) – Kosciuszko. (2,228 m)
Seaman’s Hut 6km one-way • Rawson’s Pass 8km one-way • Mt Kosciuszko 9km one-way. This walk follows the old road to Mt Kosciuszko. In 1976 the NPWS closed the road to public vehicles at Charlotte’s Pass because of safety concerns, environmental problems and lack of parking. The walk passes through snow gums, heath and herb fields and provides extensive views of the Main Range and Snowy River. After crossing the Snowy River the track climbs gradually to Seaman’s Hut, Rawson’s Pass and Mt Kosciuszko’s summit.
Main Range Track from Charlotte Pass Village
Distance: 22km round trip
Grade: 4
Approx time: 7-9 hours
After crossing the Snowy River below Charlotte’s Pass, the track climbs through alpine herb fields past Hedley Tarn Lookout to Blue Lake Lookout. It then climbs Carruther’s Peak that provides spectacular views to the west. It continues along the exposed ridge of the Main Range above Club Lake and Lake Albina until it meets the Summit Walk between Rawson’s Pass and Mt Kosciuszko’s summit.
Charlotte Pass to Guthega or the other way!
Distance: 9km one way
Grade: 3
Approx time: 3 hours
Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk is an invigorating 9km day walk winding through the Australian Alps, the walk links Guthega Village and Charlotte Pass. Beginning at Guthega you’ll follow the breathtaking Snowy River Valley and experience the full splendour of Kosciuszko National Park’s sub-alpine landscape. With uninterrupted horizons and views onto the grandstand of the Main Range, you can fully immerse yourself in nature. If coming from Charlotte Pass to Guthega stop in at the Basecamp cafe in the Guthega ski centre for the best food in the mountains or just enjoy a beer or wine after your hike.
Illawong Hut Walk
Distance: 5km return
Grade: 3
Approx time: 2-3 hours
Illawong Walk is a gorgeous 5km return walk through Kosciuszko National Park. It begins in the charming Guthega Village and follows along the Snowy River through alpine heath and towering, majestic snow gums, all the way up to Illawong Hut, one of the oldest buildings still standing in the park. Walk or swim in the cooling waters of Snowy River when the weather is hot, or picnic among the wildflowers of alpine mint, billy buttons, and native yam daisies, just to name a few. Stop in at the BaseCamp cafe in the Guthega ski centre for the best food in the mountains or just enjoy a beer or wine after your hike.
Charlotte Pass to Perisher walk
Distance: 13km one way
Grade: 3
Approx time: 4 – 6 hours
Linking Charlotte Pass Village and Perisher the walk flows through the alpine valleys and rugged landscapes of Kosciuszko National Park. As you walk, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy beautiful views of high country plains, snow-capped mountain ranges, and clear-flowing rivers. You can also see some of the unique animals and plants that make this area special, like ancient snow gums, summer wildflowers, wombats and echidnas.
Perisher to Bullocks Flat
Distance: 11.5km one way
Grade: 4
Approx time: 5 – 6 hours
Experience the natural beauty of the Snowy Mountains on this day walk that takes you from Perisher to Bullocks Flat. Currently under construction and due for completion in 2024, this section of track is the last leg of Snowies Alpine Walk. Start the walk from Perisher Valley and wind your way south-east through picturesque scenery and ghostly-looking snow gums. In spring and early summer, flowering shrubs and a blanket of wildflowers add a splash of colour to the surrounding landscape. You’ll find yourself tracing the Thredbo River as you approach Bullocks Flat. Enjoy the views of the glassy waters against the backdrop of the rocky Ramshead Range, which may be snow-capped even in summer. While you’re here, make sure you pay a visit to historic Bullocks Hut, just 200m away from Bullocks Flat. Built in 1934 and idyllically nestled where the Thredbo River and Little Thredbo River meet, it’s a great place to stop for a picnic or to take some photos. From here you can exit at Bullocks Flat or walk the remaining 1.4km to Lake Crackenback.
Snowies Walk – A Journey Through the Heart of the Snowy Mountains
Distance: 56 km – One Way
Grade: 4
Approx time: 4-5 days
The Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, home to Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, offer breathtaking landscapes and deep cultural significance. The Snowies Walk traverses alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and rugged peaks, showcasing nature’s raw beauty. For the Ngarigo people, the mountains are sacred, rich with Dreamtime stories and traditions like the annual Bogong moth feast. Walking these trails is more than an adventure—it is a chance to connect with the land’s ancient spirit, respect Indigenous heritage, and appreciate the profound rhythms of nature. Whether for reflection, discovery, or cultural enrichment, the Snowy Mountains offer an unforgettable journey through time and landscape.
Sawpit Track
Distance: 1.6km round trip
Grade: 3
Approx time: 1.5 hours
You can start this walk from the southern end of the Kosciuszko Education Centre or from the northern end of the Sawpit Creek picnic area. The track follows Sawpit Creek downstream through woodland (candlebark, white sallee, manna gum and mountain gum). The thick shrub growing beside the creek is predominantly woolly tea tree. After about one kilometre, a track junction is reached. The Sawpit Track takes a sharp turn to the right while the Pallaibo Track continues following the creek. The Sawpit Track climbs back up to the Kosciuszko Mountain Retreat (cabins/camping area). Walkthrough this complex to return to the picnic area and your vehicle.
Waterfall Track
Distance: 6km
Grade: 3
Approx time: 45min – 1.5 hours return
This track starts at the Sawpit Creek picnic area and passes through the culvert under the road. It runs roughly parallel to Sawpit Creek until it crosses the creek at a cascade or small waterfall. The tall trees with fibrous bark growing near the falls are alpine ash. Alpine ash was logged in this area late last century. On the return, the track passes between huge granite boulders before returning to the picnic area.
Rainbow Lake Walk
Distance: 3km
Grade: 3
Approx time: 45 min – 1.5 hours return
The track begins at a gate on the left side of the road towards Perisher from Sawpit Creek,1.5km past Sponar’s Chalet. Parking is available opposite the gate or 400m further on at Dainer’s Gap. The track winds through snowgrass and snow gums to Rainbow Lake. The lake is a dam which was constructed to supply water to the Hotel Kosciusko. Sponars Chalet was the staff quarters for the hotel and became the main accommodation building when the Hotel Kosciusko burnt down in 1951. The old fences near a large boulder just before you descend to the lake are a legacy of the grazing era.
Porcupine Rocks Track
Distance: 5km
Grade: 3
Approx time: 1hr 30 min – 2hrs 30min return
This track starts at the Perisher Valley reservoir. To reach the start of the track turn left beside the Man from Snowy River Hotel and take the right branches of the road. The snow poles mark cross-country ski trails. Except where they follow the walking track, these poles should not be followed by walkers because loss 4 vegetation and the development of worn pathways will cause erosion. Because the ground in this area is often wet, some sections of the track are constructed from raised metal mesh. The track wanders through snow grass, snow gums and small shrubs until a large group of granite boulders is reached. These boulders provide an extensive view of the Main Range and Thredbo Valley.
THREDBO VILLAGE & MAIN RANGE TRAILS
Experience the natural beauty of Australia’s highest mountains in summer as you walk and hike some incredible alpine trails. Whether it’s a family-friendly hike to the top of Mt. Kosciuszko or an advanced day hike across the Australian Main Range, there’s something for every age and ability to enjoy. With tons of glacial lakes, unique flora and fauna and mountains as far as the eye can see, it’s a must-do whilst visiting Thredbo throughout summer.
Mt Kosciuszko Lookout & Summit Hike
The one everyone comes for! Summit one of the World’s ‘7Peaks’ and tell your friends!
Denali. (6,194 m) -Mont Blanc. (4,810 m) – Elbrus. (5,642 m) -Everest. (8,848 m) – Kilimanjaro. (5,895 m) – Aconcagua. (6,961 m) – Vinson. (4,892 m) – Kosciuszko. (2,228 m)
Distance: 13km from the top of the chairlift
Grade: 3
Approx time: 4-6 hours
Colour on map: Purple
Ride the chairlift to the top from Thredbo Village [charges apply] and head out along the pathway across Merritts Creek. Follow the walkway to the Kosciuszko Lookout, 2km one way, (altitude 2000m) for views of Australia’s highest peaks and alpine landscapes.
The track then descends into the headwaters of the Snowy River then rises up into a saddle known as halfway rocks. From here you can see the access trail from Charlotte Pass. Follow the walking track to Rawson Pass (altitude 2110m), passing Cootapatamba Lookout. From Rawson Pass the summit is only 1km away. The track circles around the summit right to the top. Return to Thredbo following the same track for a total of 13km. Stand on top of Australia at 2,228m and enjoy panoramic 360-degree views.
Dead Horse Gap Hike:
Distance: 10km
Grade: 4 going up, 3 going down
Approx time: 4-5 hours
Colour on map: Brown
This loop walk starts from Thredbo Village and takes you along the Thredbo River to the Dead Horse Gap. From here climb through the alpine zones along the rooftop of Australia to the Eagles Nest Restaurant and down the Chairlift to return to the Thredbo Village. Along the walk there are stunning views from the top of the Rams Head Range, before the opportunity for lunch at Australia’s Highest Restaurant, followed by an enjoyable chairlift ride down to Thredbo. This hike can be done in either direction (please note that climbing from Dead Horse Gap is significantly more strenuous).
Alpine Lakes Hike:
Distance: 32km
Grade: 4
Highlights: Glacial lakes, Incredible alpine views
Take a stroll out on the rooftop of this beautiful land. This is an iconic hike that promises stunning views of the mountains, beautiful unique flora and a complete sense of awe at what Mother Nature has created. From start to finish, this is a wonderful mountain experience. It is 32km of moderate to strenuous hiking but is quite achievable for a reasonable level of fitness. You will be hiking some of the highest peaks and seeing some of the most rugged mountain terrain Australia has to offer, not to mention the highest glacial lakes in the country. Enjoy this journey of stunning views, windswept peaks and unique features along the way.
PLEASE NOTE: This is an all-day hike with strenuous uphill sections, Thredbo does not operate a return shuttle.
Merritts Traverse:
Distance: 5km
Grade: 3
Approx time: 2-3 hours
Colour on map: Pink
This walk starts with a scenic journey to the top of the hill on the chairlift. Starting along Merritts Nature walk, this walk soon detours down the hill by following a series of signposted trails and ski runs. The walk visits a few scenic creeks, but the main highlights are the wide views of Thredbo Valley.
Merritt’s Nature Track:
Distance: 4km
Grade: 3
Approx time: 2-3 hours
Colour on map: Sky Blue
This walk explores the native bushland around the winter skiing area. After riding the Kosciuszko Express chairlift up the hill, arriving near the Eagles Nest restaurant, the walk winds through the snow gum forest, following ski runs and bush tracks back down the hill. The walk passes the popular Thredbo Bobsled and continues back to the village.
Pipeline Path:
Distance: 3km
Grade: 2
Approx time: 1-2 hours
Colour on map: Orange
Starting from the Valley Terminal, this walk leads you past the bobsled then down to Friday Drive and across the Thredbo River. From here, you follow the signposted Pipeline Path, a dirt track, along the hillside. The track leads to the picture-perfect Snowmakers Ponds for a picnic or a dip. Either retrace your steps or follow the rest of the notes back to the start following Friday Drive. An enjoyable stroll out from the village.
Thredbo Valley Track [TVT]:
Distance: 5km – 37km One Way
Grade: 3
Approx time: Up to 8hrs to Lake Crackenback and on to Jindabyne
Thredbo Valley Track or TVT is one of its most popular (and easiest) adventures in the Mountains. Soak in the views of the Ramshead Range, and enjoy the fresh mountain air as you travel through tall mountain gum forest, snow gum woodland, and open grasslands. The trail meanders along the pretty Thredbo River valley and even crosses several photogenic suspension bridges. Keep an eye out for 400-year-old mountain plum pines and, in spring, flowering hovea with its purple ‘hearts’.
If you prefer to tackle just a section of the track, there are access points at Thredbo Diggings Campground or Ngarigo Campground. Stop here for a picnic and try your luck fishing in the Thredbo River. Walk on to Jindabyne or stop at Lake Crackenback.
This track is mostly smooth walking with some short climbs and descents, making it a great day out for casual cruisers and pros alike.
More info on Thredbo Guided Walks
More info on Thredbo Self-Guided Walks
TIPS & HINTS PLUS SAFETY WHEN GOING ON A HIKE
The high country can be an extremely beautiful place but it can also be challenging with regard to our weather conditions. Mountain weather can change quickly from sun and heat to snow and rain in a few minutes.
- If going overnight tell someone your expected route and return time.
- It is advisable to take a GPS location device & EPIRB emergency beacon if travelling away from the main trails.
- If going on a day hike take a change of clothing. If it is hot & sunny when you first take off make sure you have the opposite clothing in your day pack i.e wearing shorts. Take long pants..wearing t-shirts? take a jumper….Pack for all conditions!
- Always take water and a light snack with you.
- Take a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. The fly’s in the mountains are big!!
- Wear sensible shoes. Thongs are OK for the beach, not a 15 km hike.
- Know where you are going and how long it will take to return.
- Take a camera for those great shots of you being a true” Mountain Man or Women”.
