Australian Alps Walking Track

Stretching 655 kilometres from Walhalla in Victoria to the outskirts of Canberra, the Australian Alps Walking Track is one of Australia’s great long-distance hikes, traversing alpine meadows, snowy peaks, and ancient eucalypt forests. This is a walk for serious bushwalkers seeking solitude and raw, elemental beauty, with the chance to spot wildflowers in summer and snow gums twisted by the wind. The track passes through national parks including Kosciuszko and Namadgi, offering a true backcountry experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Kosciuszko – Australia’s highest peak, a challenging side-trip with panoramic views of the Main Range.
• Thredbo to Perisher Valley – A classic section through alpine herb fields and glacial lakes like Blue Lake.
• Snowy Mountains – Encounter wild brumbies, snow gums, and the historic Kiandra goldfields.
• Namadgi National Park – Aboriginal rock art sites and granite tors near the ACT border.
• Wildlife spotting – Look for echidnas, wombats, and the endangered mountain pygmy-possum.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most thru-hikers allow 4–6 weeks to complete the full track, but you can sample shorter sections in 3–7 days. The best season is November to March, when snow has largely cleared and wildflowers are blooming. Plan for variable weather—pack for snow even in summer. Resupply points are limited, so careful food drops are essential.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hunter Valley – Reward your hike with wine tasting and gourmet dining in Australia’s oldest wine region.
• Kosciuszko National Park – Explore the park’s ski resorts, walking trails, and the Yarrangobilly Caves.
• Canberra – The nation’s capital offers museums, galleries, and the Australian War Memorial.
• Snowy River National Park – Remote gorges and white-water rafting on the Snowy River.

Please check official sources for current details.