Image: Cory Cai
Why this Hike
This extreme hike up Mount Kosciuszko is a spectacular overnight adventure through some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery. Hiking up the hard western face of Mount Kosciuszko is a once in a lifetime adventure for experienced walkers looking for the challenge of Australia’s highest elevation gain of any hike in the country.
Track Notes & Overview
2 Days, 1 Night – 25.9KM
Day One – Alpine way to Wilkinsons Creek Campsite (13.2KM)
Starting from Alpine Way near Geehi Flat, this hike takes you along the Hannels Spur Track up one of Australia’s hardest climbs to the top of Mount Kosciuszko. The walk has a consistent elevation gain going up from 400m to well over 1900m on the first day as you pass through Moira Flat, one of the campgrounds along this hike. The trail which follows Paul Strzelecki’s accent to discover Mount Kosciuszko nearly 200 years ago is at part hard to navigate and for this reason should only be undertaken by experienced hikers. A few kilometres after reaching Moira Flat you will arrive at Wilkinsons Creek Campsite which has great open areas for camping down near the creek. This is where you will spend the night.
Day Two – Wilkinsons Creek Campsite to Albury Ski Lodge (12.7KM)
Shortly after setting off from Wilkinsons Creek Campsite you will make your final accent towards the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, to reach the summit a small 1.8KM return track must be taken off the main path before returning to the Kosciuszko Walk and down past Rawson Pass. Along the path to the Albury Ski Lodge many lookouts including Cootapatamba Lake Lookout and Kosciuszko Lookout which can provide some amazing views. Finish the hike along Merritts Nature Trail winding past Merritts Creek and down to the Ski Lodge near Thredbo.
*Please note that this hike is EXTREMELY difficult, it is only for very experienced walkers who have good navigation skills and have a high fitness level. The hike is up Australia’s highest mountain so do not underestimate this track in any situation.
Food for an Overnight Hike
Creating a menu for a hike can seem challenging at first especially if it is an overnight hike. Your menu should be nutritious, delicious and lightweight which can limit some of the meals you can create.
Our recipe hub includes great suggestions for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks and even dessert, covering all the ingredients you will need and how to make them.
