Kosciuszko National Park

Kosciuszko National Park covers 6,900 square kilometers in southeastern New South Wales, with Mount Kosciuszko rising 2,228 meters above sea level. You'll find expert-level ski runs at Thredbo, natural thermal pools at Yarrangobilly Caves, and fields of purple, yellow, and white wildflowers blooming across alpine meadows in summer. Walk past crystal-clear glacial lakes, paddle through rapids on the Snowy River, or spot wombats grazing at dawn near snow gum forests.

Getting to Kosciuszko National Park

Drive 354 km southwest from Sydney to reach the park, which has several entry points. From Canberra, take the Monaro Highway through Cooma for 100 km to access the Thredbo-Perisher area. Follow the Alpine Way to Thredbo or take Kosciuszko Road to Perisher Valley. In winter (June to October), you must carry snow chains on designated roads.

Hiking Mount Kosciuszko

Walk to Australia's highest point on two main tracks. The 13-kilometer return journey from Thredbo begins with a chairlift ride and follows a raised metal walkway to the summit. From Charlotte Pass, trek 18 kilometers return past the Snowy River and Blue Lake, where you'll see rock formations carved by ancient glaciers. Both walks take 4-6 hours and give you clear views across the Australian Alps.

Winter Activities in the Snowy Mountains

Four ski resorts operate in the park. At Perisher, the Southern Hemisphere's largest resort, ski or snowboard across seven peaks using 47 lifts. Thredbo's runs descend 672 vertical meters. Charlotte Pass sits at 1,765 meters elevation with reliable natural snow coverage. Selwyn works well for first-time skiers and families. Find 100 kilometers of marked cross-country skiing trails around Perisher Valley.

Mountain Biking and Cycling Routes

Ride the 35-kilometer Thredbo Valley Track as it winds along the Snowy River, crossing suspension bridges. The trail includes difficult sections with rocky terrain and gentler parts suitable for families. In summer, use Thredbo's chairlift to access downhill mountain biking runs. Cycle on management trails throughout the park, including the steep climb to Mount Stillwell.

Wildlife and Alpine Environment

Look for mountain pygmy possums above 1,500 meters - they live nowhere else in the world except the Australian Alps. Silver snow daisies and alpine marsh marigolds grow between rocks at high elevations. Snow gum trees dominate the lower slopes, while tall alpine ash forests grow in sheltered valleys. Watch for kangaroos and wombats in grassy areas early morning and late afternoon.

Yarrangobilly Caves Area

Explore six main limestone caves at Yarrangobilly. Take guided tours through Jersey and Jillabenan caves to see stalactites, stalagmites, and twisted helictites. Swim in the 27°C thermal pool year-round, even when surrounded by snow. Walk to Glory Farm archway and the thermal pool lookout on marked trails near the caves.