Mt Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, can be found in the same-named National Park in southern New South Wales. It is located in the main range of the Snowy Mountains and rises 2,228 meters above sea level. Mount Kosciuszko is considered one of the World’s Seven Summits, or the highest mountains on each continent.
Is it difficult to climb Mount Kosciuszko? Well, this article would answer the question for you and explain how to climb the mountain with proper precautions.
Nobody can deny that, in addition to being Australia’s highest mountain, it is located in a beautiful National Park with a rare alpine landscape just a few hour’s drive from major cities. There are several routes to Mount Kosciuszko’s summit, each with its own distinct experience.
When is The Best Time To Climb Mount Kosciuszko?
The peak and surrounding mountains are usually covered in snow from June to October, but in recent years, the snow has been known to fall earlier and stay longer.
This makes December to March the best time of year to climb Mount Kosciuszko when the weather is warmer and the snow has melted.
Mt Kosciuszko is best climbed in the summer. You’ll increase your chances of having a warm and sunny day, but you should still be prepared for cold weather. Spring is also a beautiful time to climb Mt Kosciuszko because the wildflowers are in bloom.
Because of the weather and snow, climbing Mount Kosciuszko is much more difficult in the autumn and winter.
How To Climb Mount Kosciuszko?
Getting to the peak is easier than you might think, especially when compared to the other world’s highest peaks. This is because it is relatively small in size. To put Mt Kosciuszko in context, Mt Kilimanjaro is 5,895 meters above sea level, and Mt Everest is a whopping 8,848 meters.
Mt Kosciuszko can be climbed in two ways. Both provide breathtaking views of Kosciuszko National Park. Each can be completed in a single day but will require some physical fitness as they are both steep climbs for the majority of the way.
Climb 1: Leaving from Thredbo
This is the more popular of the two walks, and it can get quite crowded up there on a weekend when the weather is nice. To get to the start of the climb, take the Kosciuszko Express chairlift from Thredbo. The ride lasts 15 minutes and ascends 560 meters.
This is your first of many chances to take in the breathtaking views of the Kosciuszko National Park’s surrounding mountains and the stunning Thredbo Valley. Prices and operating hours for the chairlift are available here. The path to the summit is immediately accessible once you exit the chairlift.
The Ramshead Range’s rocky granite outcrops will be the first thing you see as you start walking. If you happen to be doing the walk in the spring, you’ll be surrounded by a spectacular display of alpine wildflowers.
Stop at the Ramshead Range lookout for some of the best views of the country’s highest mountain.
The trail then crosses the Snowy River’s headwaters. This river flows 352 kilometers from the eastern slopes of the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales to the Alpine National Park and the Snowy River National Park in Victoria before emptying into the Bass Strait.
The climb then takes you above Lake Cootapatamba, Australia’s highest-altitude lake.
Climb 2: Leaving from Charlotte Pass
This hike can be done on foot or by mountain bike.
Set out for Mt Kosciuszko via the old road. Due to erosion concerns, this road was closed to public vehicles in 1976.
Historic huts, weathered snow gums, and spectacular rock formations are among the highlights of this walk/ride. In the spring, just like in Climb 1, you can admire wildflowers such as marsh marigolds and silver snow daisies.
Around 4.5 kilometers into the walk/ride, you’ll come across the Snowy River, where you’ll find a scenic picnic spot, ideal for a quick break.
Return to Charlotte Pass via the same route, or take the Thredbo route to the chairlift for a change of (spectacular) scenery.
Over The Top
Both walks lead to the same location at the summit. When you reach the top, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Snowy Mountains and Victorian High Country. Just breathtaking!
I recommend spending some time at the top to take in the fresh alpine air, have a snack and some water to refuel for the walk back, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the summit of Australia’s highest mountain.
Where To Stay Near Mount Kosciuszko?
Before you choose your lodging, I recommend deciding which route you’ll take to Mount Kosciuszko’s summit. The drive from Charlotte Pass to Thredbo takes more than an hour. So, if you’re only visiting the area for the hike, you might want to avoid wasting time in the car.
There are more lodging options in Thredbo than in Charlotte Pass/Perisher Valley.
If you want to expand your options and the number of activities available, Jindabyne – where the road splits to Charlotte Pass or Thredbo – has a fantastic deal. You might also find good deals in Crackenback, which is located between Jindabyne and Thredbo.
Be Prepared With The Right Gear
The mountain climate is unpredictable and can change quickly at any time of year. Even in the summer, it is critical to keep this in mind when planning a hike up Mount Kosciuszko.
Aside from the length for those who aren’t used to long hikes, walking up to the top of Australia on a calm summer sunny day is simple.
However, it has the potential to ruin all fun and even turn into a nightmare for unprepared and unlucky hikers.
While hiking Mount Kosciuszko is not particularly dangerous, some basic hiking gear should be on your list for a comfortable adventure. It is inconvenient to bring extra equipment that you will most likely not need, but it appears necessary to ensure that this hike remains enjoyable if the weather changes.
Conclusion
Hiking Or Climbing Mount Kosciuszko can be a difficult task but adventures are more fun than difficult if you are prepared well. Above is a perfect guide on how to climb Mount Kosciuszko and information related to the hike.
When are you planning to climb the Famous Mount Kosciuszko to let yourself fall into the aura of peace and tranquility of nature? Let us know in the comment section.
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