Thredbo Valley track adventure rides
Thredbo-Perisher area in Kosciuszko National Park
Overview
Experienced mountain bike riders can get their thrills on Thredbo Valley track in Kosciuszko National Park. From the world-class 37km ride, to short technical sections, try these adventure options.
- Accessibility
- No wheelchair access
- Distance
- 5 - 37km one-way
- Time suggested
- 1 - 9hrs
- Entry fees
- Park entry fees apply
- Opening times
Sections of Thredbo Valley track are open for cycling after the October long weekend through to the beginning of the June long weekend – check conditions and closures before you set out.
- What to
bring - Drinking water, snacks, suitable clothing, helmet, bike repair kit, first aid kit, hat, sunscreen, mobile phone, personal locator beacon
Thredbo to Thredbo River picnic area: 37km one way
Grade: Green - Easy to Blue - Intermediate
Distance: 37.3km one way
Time: 3-9hrs
Season: November to May. Closed to bikes in winter.
Intrepid mountain bike riders can now tackle the extended 37.3km Thredbo Valley track ride from Thredbo to Thredbo River picnic area.
Cruise, climb and downhill through the ever-changing Snowy Mountains scenery on one of Australia’s best mountain bike day rides.
Setting off from Thredbo’s Friday Drive, the easy flow single track follows the pretty Thredbo River valley. Enjoy smooth, mostly downhill riding to the first 3 suspension bridges crossing the river, before hitting some rolling contours and tight corners en route to Ngarigo campground.
With the legs warmed up, the pitch kicks up and the track throws in technical treats including climbs, descents, berms, gnarls and switchbacks, as you head to Thredbo Diggings.
Catch your breath back in the green zone on the compacted gravel section to Bullocks Flat through black sallee woodland. For a more demanding option without clocking up extra kms, take Muzzlewood track between Thredbo Diggings and Bullocks Flat.
Bullocks Hut is a top spot to rest and regroup before tackling the 18.4km lower Thredbo Valley track stretch to Gaden Trout Hatchery. Recommended for physically fit, self-sufficient and experienced riders only, this long, challenging section is packed with technical features as it follows the river downstream through remote sub-alpine landscapes.
There are no exit points or facilities until you reach the trout hatchery, off Kosciuszko Road. It’s best to organise a car shuffle or pickup.
The final section of track takes you from Gaden Trout Hatchery to Thredbo River picnic area. A short, easy section of track, it’s perfect to wind down and relax a little after your efforts. Enjoy stunning river views and the sounds of local birdlife as you end your ride.
Ngarigo to Thredbo Diggings: 4.8km one-way
Grade: Blue - Intermediate
Distance: 4.8km one-way, 9.6km return
Time: 0.75-2hrs
Season: November to May. Closed to bikes in winter.
This ride is a blast if you’re short on time or want a taster of Thredbo Valley track’s more technical single track.
There are some short steep climbs in both directions, including 1 just out of Ngarigo, giving you excellent mid-slope flowing track, with rolling contours, fun berms and switchbacks. Cover the breaks so you don’t overcook the corners, keep an eye out for slower riders and traffic coming the other way.
A couple of long, elevated platforms offer great views of the Thredbo River. Keep an eye out for the ‘secret’ rest stop above the track, just after the second platform out of Ngarigo.
If you’re thirsty for more, add on a 5.5km loop from Thredbo Diggings to Bullocks Flat combining the intermediate Muzzlewood track.
Bullocks Flat to Gaden Trout Hatchery: 18.4km one way
Grade: Blue - Intermediate
Distance: 18.4km one way
Time: 1.5-4hrs
Season: November to May. Closed to bikes in winter.
This lower Thredbo Valley track extension is a thrilling new option for adventure riders keen to test their legs on a more challenging, and remote section of the iconic track.
Starting from the northern side of the Skitube bridge at Bullocks Flat, the first 3km is an easy to moderate ride before the track gets more technical and the landscape more remote. If you’re struggling it’s recommended you turn back, as there are no exit points until Gaden Trout Hatchery, located off Kosciuszko Road.
Best cycled west to east, this purpose-built lower section of Thredbo Valley track is packed with challenges including tight switchbacks, high berms, rocky surfaces, and steep gradients. Boulder lookout, around 10.4km from Bullocks Flat, is a scenic rest stop along the way.
Opened in 2019, it's a rewarding ride on its own for physically fit, experienced and well-equipped riders. For a longer adventure, it’s easily combined with other sections of Thredbo Valley track.
Thredbo to Bullocks Flat: 16.7km one way
Grade: Green - Easy to Blue - Intermediate
Distance: 16.7km one way
Time: 1.5-4hrs
Season: November to May. Closed to bikes in winter.
The original Thredbo Valley track packs in flowy single track, climbs, and technical trail features to make a physically challenging ride, with plenty of cruisey neutral sections.
Starting from Friday Drive in Thredbo village, the track meanders along the pretty Thredbo River valley, crossing 5 suspension bridges on the way to Ngarigo campground. Breathe in the mountain air as you ride by the rushing river, through tall mountain gum forest, snow gum woodland, and open grasslands.
There are a few short climbs and switchbacks to get you primed for the more gnarly technical obstacles you’ll attack between Ngarigo and Thredbo Diggings.
Keep spinning along the easy last leg from Thredbo Diggings to Bullocks Flat, or take Muzzlewood track, which needs a bit more skill to navigate.
Convenient riverside rest stops, plus toilet facilities, are available at Ngarigo campground, Thredbo Diggings campground, and Bullocks Hut. They’re also handy pick-up points if you run out of gas, or the weather turns.
At Bullocks Flat, you can cruise around 1km to Lake Crackenback Resort where you and your bike can be collected. Fees apply. Book well in advance.
Gaden Bridge to Thredbo River picnic area: 1.5km one way
Grade: Green - Easy
Distance: 1.5km one way
Time: 30mins - 1hr
Season: This section is open all year round if the track is dry.
Gaden Bridge to Thredbo River picnic area is a short, easy section of the Thredbo Valley track. It’s perfect for riders looking for a quick adventure, family-friendly ride, or brief introduction to this iconic track.
Starting from Gaden Bridge you’ll climb gently through snowgum woodland, then descend through tall eucalypt forest to Thredbo River picnic area. A peaceful, shady ride, you’ll get to enjoy the sights and sounds of local birdlife as well as stunning views of Thredbo River and up the Thredbo Valley.
A wide, gravel track, with a 300m section of raised platform, the Gaden Bridge to Thredbo River picnic area track has several spots which are ideal to stop at and soak up your surroundings. You can have a picnic or BBQ at both Gaden Trout Hatchery and Thredbo River picnic area, and between the snowgum woodland and the eucalypt forest there’s a seating area with great views of the river. With easy access to both Gaden Trout Hatchery and Thredbo River picnic area, you can also choose which way you want to ride. Starting from Thredbo River picnic area you can tackle the track as a 3.2km return ride, returning to Thredbo River for a picnic.
If you’re looking for a longer, more challenging ride, you can easily combine this track with the Bullocks Flat to Gaden Trout Hatchery section of the Thredbo Valley track.
Thredbo Mountain Bike Park
Grade: Green - Easy, Blue - Intermediate, Black - Advanced
Distance: 25km of trails
Season: Mid November to end April
Thredbo Mountain Bike Park, run by Thredbo Resort, is home to 25km of epic alpine riding for adventure riders.
There’s chairlift-accessed gravity trails, skills parks, a linked network of cross country trails, and a fun flowing pump track, all easily combined with Thredbo Valley track.
Warm up on the rollers, smooth berms and steady gradient of Kosciuszko Flow trail. Head up to 1930m for unrivalled views down the valley before the adrenaline rush of the All-Mountain trails. Or, take it easy on one of the village loops.
Thredbo’s favourite vertical run for advanced riders, the Cannonball Downhill, is packed with drops, jumps, wall-rides and other features. Full-face helmet compulsory.
Bike rental, clinics and programs are all available in Thredbo village to take your mountain bike skills to the next level. Visit the Thredbo resort website for more information.
Please note
- Arrange a car shuffle or pickup if cycling one way.
- Local shuttle services operate between Thredbo village and Lake Crackenback Resort in summer. Fees apply. Book well in advance. Ask our friendly staff at Snowy Region Visitor Centre for more details.
- Please give way to walkers along this track, and be considerate of beginner and slower riders, including children.
- Check conditions and closures before you set out.
Kosciuszko National Park is a mountain bike rider’s paradise, and the iconic Thredbo Valley track is one Australia’s best day rides.
Take to 2 wheels on an epic day in the saddle on the extended 37km ride, from Thredbo to Thredbo River picnic area, only 9km from Jindabyne.
Tackle the remote lower Thredbo Valley track for a challenging and uninterrupted 18.4km ride between Bullocks Flat and the hatchery. Or, test your skills on a shorter technical ride like Ngarigo to Thredbo Diggings.
Check out guided bike tour options. Families and first-time riders may prefer our Thredbo Valley track easy ride options.
Map
Map
Map
Map legend
Local alerts
For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/cycling-trails/thredbo-valley-track-adventure-rides/local-alerts
Park info
- in the Thredbo-Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains region
- The Thredbo-Perisher area is open all year, but some roads and trails may close due to weather conditions or park management issues. Kosciuszko Road is closed between Perisher and Charlotte Pass in winter (June to October long weekends).
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Park entry fees apply on Alpine Way and Kosciuszko Road
Winter (June to October long weekends): $29 per vehicle per day (24hrs from purchase); motorcycles $12; bus passengers $11.45 per adult, $3.60 per child per day. Find out more about the winter entry surcharge.
Rest of Year: $17 per vehicle per day (24hrs); motorcycles $7; bus passengers $6.60 per adult, $2.20 per child per day.
Passes: Day passes, multi-day passes and annual All Parks Pass available from NPWS visitor centres, local agents and operating vehicle entry stations. Single and Multi-Day passes are also available via the Park'nPay app. Short Breaks Pass: $68 for 5 days park entry at price of 4 days (not valid winter).
Read our Annual Pass FAQs for information.
Buy annual pass.
Visitor info
All the practical information you need to know about Thredbo Valley track adventure rides.
Getting there and parking
The full Thredbo Valley track runs from Thredbo village, via Bullocks Flat, to Gaden Trout Hatchery, outside Kosciuszko National Park.
To get there from Jindabyne:
- Leave Jindabyne on Kosciuszko Road
- After 3km, turn left onto Alpine Way and continue 31km
- Then turn right onto Friday Drive to enter Thredbo village
- Thredbo Valley track starts from Friday Drive, on your right, before the round-a-bout.
- To reach Gaden Trout Hatchery, follow Kosciuszko Road around 7km then turn left onto Gaden Road and follow 2.5km to the designated carpark and picnic area.
To get there from Khancoban:
- Head south on Alpine Way and follow for 74km
- You can turn left onto Banjo Drive to reach Thredbo, or continue 1.5km along Alpine Way and turn left onto Friday Drive.
You can also access Thredbo Valley track from Thredbo Diggings campground, Ngarigo campground, or at Bullocks Flat Skitube carpark ‘D’, off Alpine Way.
Road conditions
Roads can close in extreme weather, so it’s a good idea to check alpine weather and road conditions before setting out.
- Sealed roads
Vehicle access
- 2WD vehicles
Weather restrictions
- Snow chains required after snow
Parking
- Parking is available at either end of this track, on Friday Drive in Thredbo and at Gaden Trout Hatchery, outside the national park.
- No parking or entry to private property. Please park in designated areas only.
- You can also park at access points at Thredbo Diggings campground, Ngarigo campground, and Bullocks Flat Skitube carpark D.
Facilities
Thredbo Alpine Village offers a range of facilities including public toilets, picnic tables, supermarket, hire gear, drinking water, shops, cafes and restaurants, ATM, public phone, and fuel.
Non-flush toilets, picnic tables and fire-rings are located along Thredbo Valley track at Ngarigo campground and Thredbo Diggings campground. There’s also a non-flush toilet at Bullocks Hut.
There are public toilets and limited parking at Gaden Trout Hatchery. Please do not enter or park in private property.
Carpark
Maps and downloads
Accessibility
Disability access level - no wheelchair access
Permitted
Cycling
November to May: You can cycle the full Thredbo Valley track in summer. Section may close due to poor weather or track conditions.
June to October: All bikes, including fat bikes, only permitted on gravel section between Thredbo Diggings campground and Bullocks Flat. Some sections may open if conditions allow.
Fishing
You can fish in rivers and streams between the October and June long weekends. A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required to fish in all waters. Fishing in dams and lakes is permitted year-round, but some waterways may close temporarily or have restrictions. Refer to the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide for information.
Prohibited
Drones
Flying a drone for recreational purposes is prohibited in this area. Drones may affect public enjoyment, safety and privacy, interfere with park operations, or pose a threat to wildlife. See the Drones in Parks policy.
This area may be a declared Drone Exclusion Zone, or may be subject to Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules for flying near airports, aerodromes and helicopter landing sites. See CASA's Drone Flyer Rules.
Commercial filming and photography
Commercial filming or photography is prohibited without prior consent. You must apply for permission and contact the local office.
Horses
Pets
Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.
If you're transiting through a national park or reserve on a public road, pets must remain within the vehicle.
Smoking
NSW national parks are no smoking areas. The alpine resorts of Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass, Selwyn, Ski Rider and Kosciuszko Tourist Park are exempt, though some commercial and outdoor places within these resorts may have no smoking areas.
Visitor centre
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Snowy Region Visitor Centre
49 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne NSW 2627 - 8.30am to 5pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
- 02 6450 5600
Learn more
Thredbo Valley track adventure rides is in Thredbo-Perisher area. Here are just some of the reasons why this park is special:
Explore the rooftop of Australia
Skiers and snowboarders will be familiar with the fabulous snow sport facilities at Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass, but there are endless activities year-round. This area is a mecca for walkers and riders. Take in the spectacular 3600 views from Snow Gums boardwalk or Dead Horse Gap walk. A hike to Mount Kosciuszko is a must, while the awe-inspiring Main Range loop explores glacial lakes and the dramatic Western Fall. Take to 2 wheels on Thredbo Valley track, or get an adrenaline charge on the famous Cannonball Run. If you need some inspiration, stop by the Snowy Region Visitor Centre for tips on top experiences, guided tours, and where to stay. Kids can also learn more on a school excursion to the Kosciuszko Education Centre.
- Cross-country skiing activities in Perisher Feel the thrill of carving fresh tracks on the cross-country trails with Perisher X-Country. It’s a beautiful way to experience the alpine environment of Kosciuszko National Park.
- Kosciuszko laser biathlon sessions Whether it's summer or winter, give the thrilling sport of biathlon a try. With the help of instructors from NSW Biathlon, you'll learn to combine the skill of laser target shooting with skiing or roller skiing.
- Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko This iconic day walk from Thredbo will have you conquering the summit of Mount Kosciuszko in a couple of hours. You'll quite literally be on a high as you soak in the epic views from Australia's highest point.
- Perisher Valley Office Perisher Valley Office, in the heart of Perisher Valley, is a handy last-minute stop for advice, maps, hiking essentials and important information before your alpine adventures in Kosciuszko National Park.
- Schlink Hut walking track Schlink Hut walking track is a high alpine hiking or mountain biking adventure near Perisher, visiting 3 historic huts in Kosciuszko National Park. Winter access is by snowshoe or cross-country skiing only.
World-class wilderness
In recognition of Kosciuszko's unique value as a conservation area, it's been named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. More than half of the area of the park, over 350,000ha, has been declared wilderness, including the rugged Western Fall wilderness of the Main Range. It also contains Blue Lake, a rare cirque lake formed by the head of a glacier. Blue Lake is a listed Ramsar site, recognised for the role it plays in preserving rare and threatened species. The Australian Alps received National Heritage recognition in 2008, and were named one of Australia's National Landscapes.
- Schlink Hut walking track Schlink Hut walking track is a high alpine hiking or mountain biking adventure near Perisher, visiting 3 historic huts in Kosciuszko National Park. Winter access is by snowshoe or cross-country skiing only.
Alpine plants and animals
The park has over 200 species of alpine flowering plants and provides important habitat to nationally endangered species, such as southern corroboree frogs and broad-toothed rats. Ancient snow gums, twisted and stunted from the blasting effects of wind, snow and ice, mix with alpine ash and fragrant alpine mint bush. Above the treeline only heath, snow grass and the hardiest plants face the cold. Slow-growing mountain plum pine, some over 500 years-old, cling to boulders for warmth, providing shelter and food for threatened mountain pygmy-possums. Bogs of spongy sphagnum moss soak up the snow melt, to be released into alpine streams. From late spring to early summer, the heath is dotted with patches of wildflowers like alpine sunrays and snow daisies, yellow billy buttons, and the anemone buttercup, found only in Kosciuszko National Park.
- Biodiversity survey The biodiversity survey school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 4 (Years 7-8) students focuses on Science. Investigate what 'biodiversity' means and use field equipment to assess the biodiversity of sample quadrats along a transect in the montane forest.
- Biodiversity survey The Biodiversity survey school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 5 (Years 9-10) students focuses on science and fieldwork skills. Investigate what 'biodiversity' means and use field equipment to assess the biodiversity of sample quadrats along a transect in the montane forest.
- Charlotte Pass Village to Perisher Valley walk Charlotte Pass Village to Perisher Valley walk lets you explore the natural wonders of NSW high country. 12.9km one way and immersed in nature, it’s an ideal day walk in Thredbo-Perisher area.
- Environmental scientist Primary students learn to think like an environmental scientist in this Stage 3 Science and Technology excursion. They'll investigate living things and their habitats in Kosciuszko National Park, and then plan and do their own simple scientific investigation.
- Going up the mountain Going up the mountain is a school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 6 (Years 11-12) students focusing on Geography. Students will use field work to record and compare the geology, weather, native plants, animals, human use and sustainability of the montane, sub-alpine and alpine ecosystems.
Unique landscapes
Kosciuszko National Park is a huge park containing Australia's only true alpine environment, the highest part of the Great Dividing Range, and all of NSW's ski resorts. Above the treeline of snow gums - the only trees to grow at this altitude - is a unique landscape of alpine herb fields, feldmark, bogs and tarns. A walk to the highest peak in mainland Australia, Mount Kosciuszko, is the perfect way to see this landscape. Walk from Thredbo or Charlotte Pass, and marvel at the huge granite tors and lakes carved out during Australia's last Ice Age, between 35,000 and 10,000 years ago.
- Cross-country mountain bike tours Challenge yourself on the brilliant trails of Kosciuszko National Park with K7 Adventures. From beginner to advanced level, there's a mountain bike experience waiting for you in the Snowy Mountains.
- Environmental scientist Primary students learn to think like an environmental scientist in this Stage 3 Science and Technology excursion. They'll investigate living things and their habitats in Kosciuszko National Park, and then plan and do their own simple scientific investigation.
- Going up the mountain Going up the mountain is a school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 6 (Years 11-12) students focusing on Geography. Students will use field work to record and compare the geology, weather, native plants, animals, human use and sustainability of the montane, sub-alpine and alpine ecosystems.
- Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk Take in majestic views of Australia's highest peaks on the Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk, near Thredbo and Perisher. Follow the Snowy River and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
- Kosciuszko - a special place Kosciuszko a special place is a presentation for stage 6 (year 11-12) students focusing on Geography. This excursion highlights the unique natural and cultural features of Kosciuszko National Park, interaction of the four spheres, human impacts, sustainability and park management. Students have the opportunity to have their questions answered by an NPWS education officer.
Plants and animals protected in this park
Animals
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Bare-nosed wombat (Vombatus ursinus)
A large, squat marsupial, the Australian bare-nosed wombat is a burrowing mammal found in coastal forests and mountain ranges across NSW and Victoria. The only other remaining species of wombat in NSW, the endangered southern hairy-nosed wombat, was considered extinct until relatively recently.
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Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae)
The largest of Australian birds, the emu stands up to 2m high and is the second largest bird in the world, after the ostrich. Emus live in pairs or family groups. The male emu incubates and rears the young, which will stay with the adult emus for up to 2 years.
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Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)
One of the most fascinating and unusual Australian animals, the duck-billed platypus, along with the echidna, are the only known monotremes, or egg-laying mammals, in existence. The platypus is generally found in permanent river systems and lakes in southern and eastern NSW and east and west of the Great Dividing Range.
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Common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)
One of the most widespread of Australian tree-dwelling marsupials, the common brushtail possum is found across most of NSW in woodlands, rainforests and urban areas. With strong claws, a prehensile tail and opposable digits, these native Australian animals are well-adapted for life amongst the trees.
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Common ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus)
Commonly found in forests, woodlands and leafy gardens across eastern NSW, the Australian ringtail possum is a tree-dwelling marsupial. With a powerful tail perfectly adapted to grasp objects, it forages in trees for eucalypt leaves, flowers and fruit.
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Short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus)
One of only 2 egg-laying mammals in the world, the short-beaked echidna is one of the most widespread of Australian native animals. Covered in spines, or quills, they’re equipped with a keen sense of smell and a tube-like snout which they use to break apart termite mounds in search of ants.
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Wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax)
With a wingspan of up to 2.5m, the wedge-tailed eagle is Australia’s largest bird of prey. These Australian animals are found in woodlands across NSW, and have the ability to soar to heights of over 2km. If you’re bird watching, look out for the distinctive diamond-shaped tail of the eagle.
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Guthega skink (Liopholis guthega)
The endangered Guthega skink is the highest recorded skink in Australia. It lives only in alpine Kosciuszko National Park, and the Victorian Alps, above 1600m.
Plants
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Billy buttons (Craspedia spp. )
Billy buttons are attractive Australian native plants that are widespread throughout eastern NSW in dry forest, grassland and alpine regions such as Kosciuszko National Park. The golden-yellow globe-shaped flowers are also known as woollyheads. Related to the daisy, billy buttons are an erect herb growing to a height of 50cm.
Environments in this area
School excursions (10)
- Going up the mountain, Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography
- Above the treeline, Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography
- Biodiversity survey, Stage 4 (Years 7-8), Science
- Kosciuszko - a special place, Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography
- Biodiversity survey, Stage 5 (Years 9-10), Science
- Kosciuszko - a special place, Stage 5 (Years 9-10), Geography
- Teddy bears' picnic, Early Stage 1 (Kindergarten), Science and Technology
- Teddy bears' picnic, Early Stage 1 (Kindergarten), HSIE
- Environmental scientist, Stage 3 (Years 5-6), Science and Technology
- Going up the mountain, Stage 4 (Years 7-8), Geography