Applies from Wed 8 Jun 2022, 11.34am to Tue 1 Nov 2022, 11.35am. Last reviewed: Tue 4 Oct 2022, 9.20am.
Closed areas: High altitude walks - Snow covered and hazardous winter conditions
Areas above 1600m in altitude in Kosciuszko National Park are typically snow covered in winter. Please note the following information when visiting these areas:
General:
- Refer to our Alpine Safety page.
- Complete a trip intention form before your visit. This is a requirement for this winter.
- Refer to MSC Backcountry conditions report
Be prepared:
- Low visibility, extreme winds, heavy snowfalls can all occur without warning.
- Wear and carry appropriate clothing, carry navigation equipment and be prepared for extreme conditions.
- Track surfaces and signs may not be visible.
Travel with care:
- Choose your routes carefully
- Steep and icy terrain and thin snow/ice cover over rivers and lakes can make travel very dangerous.
Avalanche:
- There is a risk of avalanches in the higher areas of Kosciuszko National Park, particularly on Main Range and around Mount Kosciuszko.
- Steeper, treeless slopes and the tops of ridges where overhanging cornices develop carry the greatest risk.
- Snow stability varies with wind, temperature and the amount and patterns of snowfall.
- Avalanches can occur at any time through winter and can be fatal.
- Back country travellers should check snow and weather conditions before departure and remain alert.
Perisher/Main Range - areas above about 1600m, including: Kosciuszko walk, Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk, Main Range walk, Summit walk, Mt Stillwell walk, Snowgum boardwalk, Porcupine walk, Hanells Spur walk, Illawong walk, Schlink Hut walk and Dead Horse Gap track:
Expect continuous snow cover:
- Skis or snowshoes recommended. Ensure footwear is waterproof, solid and with good grip.
- Take a map and compass and know how to use them. All tracks are under snow and not visible. Most don't have above snow markers.
- Take extreme caution when on all steep slopes.
Sub-alpine - areas above 1500m - Rainbow Lake walk, Rennix walk, Thredbo River track:
Expect long stretches of snow cover with occasional continuous coverage:
- Ensure footwear is waterproof, solid and with good grip. It is recommended that you carry skis or snowshoes.
- Take a map and compass and know how to use them. Sections of tracks will not be obvious and most don't have above snow markers.
- Take extreme caution when on all steep slopes due to slippery surfaces.
For more information, call the NPWS Snowy Region Visitor Centre on 02 6450 5600.
