Snowy River National Park

Snowy River National Park is a rugged wilderness in the Australian Alps, where the Snowy River carves through deep gorges, ancient forests, and granite peaks. This is a place for adventurous travellers seeking solitude and raw natural beauty, with excellent hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. The park's remote feel and dramatic landscapes make it a standout stop on any self-drive itinerary through the Snowy Mountains region.

Highlights & What to See

• Snowy River Gorge: Walk to the McKillops Bridge lookout for jaw-dropping views of the river winding through a sheer-sided gorge – one of the most photographed spots in the park.
• Little River Gorge: Victoria’s deepest gorge, offering a challenging but rewarding hike with spectacular cliff-top vistas.
• Mount Jersey: A moderate bushwalk leads to panoramic views over the wilderness, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
• Native wildlife: Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, wombats, and lyrebirds; the park is a haven for birdwatchers.
• White-water kayaking: The Snowy River is a renowned destination for experienced paddlers, with rapids ranging from Grade II to IV after rains.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least a full day to appreciate the park’s highlights. A day trip from Jindabyne or Cooma allows time for a couple of short walks and scenic drives, but to really immerse yourself, camp overnight at one of the basic campgrounds. Two days give you the chance to tackle a longer hike like the Snowy River Gorge Walk (6 km return) and explore more remote sections. The park is best visited between November and April, as winter snow can close access roads.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kosciuszko National Park: Australia’s highest park, with alpine walks, ski resorts, and the summit of Mount Kosciuszko – a perfect pairing for a mountain-focused itinerary.
• Jindabyne: A lakeside town with good accommodation, eateries, and water activities; it’s the main gateway to the Snowy Mountains.
• Cooma: The historic Snowy Mountains Scheme town, with informative museums and the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre.
• Thredbo: A vibrant alpine village offering chairlift rides, mountain biking, and year-round adventure sports.
• Namadgi National Park: Just north of the border, this ACT park protects subalpine landscapes and Aboriginal rock art sites.

Please check official sources for current details.