Kosciuszko National Park

Straddling the roof of Australia, Kosciuszko National Park is a sprawling alpine wonderland that feels a world away from the sunburnt outback. Here, you can summit the continent’s highest peak, Mt Kosciuszko (2228 m), without technical climbing gear, then soak in natural hot springs under a canopy of snow gums. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy playground for skiers and snowboarders, while summer reveals wildflower-carpeted plains and crystal-clear rivers perfect for fishing and kayaking. It’s a must for any self-drive itinerary from Canberra or the Snowy Mountains region.

Highlights & What to See

• Mt Kosciuszko Summit Walk – The most accessible of Australia’s highest peaks: a gentle 13 km return hike from Thredbo chairlift or a longer 22 km walk from Charlotte Pass. Expect sweeping views of glacial lakes and granite outcrops.
• Snowy Mountains Scheme – A marvel of engineering, this hydro-electric project created the park’s many dams and tunnels. Visit the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre in Cooma for the full story.
• Yarrangobilly Caves – A series of limestone caves with guided tours through cathedral-like chambers, plus a thermal pool (year-round 27°C) for a post-hike dip.
• Wild Brumbies – The park’s famous wild horses, immortalised in The Man from Snowy River, are often spotted in the high plains, especially around Kiandra.
• Thredbo Resort – A vibrant alpine village offering skiing in winter and mountain biking, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides in summer. Don’t miss the après-ski scene at the T-Bar.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the park, plan at least two full days: one for the Kosciuszko summit walk and Yarrangobilly Caves, and another for exploring Thredbo or Perisher. If you’re short on time, a single day-trip from Canberra (2.5 hours drive) is feasible – tackle the summit walk and then unwind at the thermal caves. Winter visitors should allow extra time for slower driving and ski lift queues.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra – Australia’s capital, with its world-class museums, galleries, and Parliament House, is a natural gateway to the park.
• Jindabyne – A charming lakeside town just 30 minutes from Thredbo, perfect for water sports, dining, and accommodation.
• Cooma – The historic ‘Gateway to the Snowies’, with the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre and a quaint main street.
• Namadgi National Park – Closer to Canberra, this park offers Aboriginal rock art sites and rugged hiking trails, ideal for a shorter side trip.
• Snowy River National Park (Vic) – Across the border in Victoria, this park features wild river gorges and remote bushwalking, best for experienced adventurers.

Please check official sources for current details.