HIKING MOUNT KOSCIUSZKO OVERNIGHT
- becandclark
- Mar 23, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 2
CAMPING ON AUSTRALIA'S HIGHEST PEAK
Mount Kosciuszko is Australia's highest peak at 2,228 m (7,310 ft). The landscape changes every season, with wildflower trails, alpine lakes and walking tracks in summer, and spectacular snowfields over winter.
This was our first overnight hike together, and we'd only call ourselves amateur hikers at the time. That made it all the more memorable. The trail is well-marked and achievable even if you're new to multi-day hikes. Just remember that alpine weather can change quickly, so preparation is key.
If camping near the summit of Australia's Rooftop is on your bucket list too, here's what we learned and what you should know before you go.
QUICK LINKS
ABOUT THE TRAIL
Mount Kosciuszko sits in Kosciuszko National Park in southeast New South Wales, the state's largest park at 690,000 hectares. While the park has plenty to explore, the summit is the main draw for many hikers and tourists.
We took the Main Range walk up and returned via the Summit walk, completing a 22 km (13.7 mi) loop in about 7-8 hours. The trail is rated Grade 4, suitable for hikers with moderate fitness and some bushwalking experience. It's well-maintained, though you will encounter rocky sections, stairs and some steep climbs.
There are restrictions on where you can camp, which are clearly signposted along the trail. You'll need to set up 200 m (656 ft) from chairlifts, power stations, rivers, roads and alpine lake catchments.
GETTING THERE
Kosciuszko National Park is a 5-6 hour drive from Sydney or 2.5 hours from Canberra. Driving is the easiest way to explore the park and reach Charlotte Pass, the trailhead for the overnight hike.
A Park Pass is required for entry into Kosciuszko National Park. The cost varies depending on the time of year, and you will need a multi-day pass if you are completing this hike overnight. You can purchase these passes online, from the vehicle entry stations or National Parks and Wildlife Service Visitor Centres.
Visit the Kosciuszko National Park website for more information on Park Passes.
The official parking bays at Charlotte Pass have a 20-minute limit, so you will need to park along the side of the road instead. There is plenty of space, but it fills fast, so getting there early helps avoid a longer walk to the trailhead.
THE EXPERIENCE
The 22 km walk starts at Charlotte Pass, crossing the famous Snowy River via stepping stones before tackling the first long incline. There is an optional out-and-back detour to the Blue Lake, which we couldn't resist. It's worth the little extra effort for the stunning glacial waters.
As you climb over the Main Range, take your time. In summer, the meadows are carpeted with wildflowers, alpine lakes glisten in the sun, and the views stretch across the Australia Alps. There are plenty of spots to pause for lunch or just soak it all in.
Before the summit, you'll ascend a long set of uneven stone steps to Rawson Pass, then follow the final path to the top. The breathtaking 360-degree views at the end make every step worthwhile.
Be prepared for the weather to change near the peak. In mid-February, we experienced bright sun, with highs of 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), then icy wind and lows of 2 degrees Celsius (35 degrees Fahrenheit).
Camping is not allowed at the summit, so we set up at Rawson Pass. Watching the stars come out over the quiet alpine landscape is an unforgettable experience. Sunrise the next morning, whether from your tent or the summit itself, is equally spectacular.
Continue reading below for more information on ‘Where To Stay’.
The descent via the Summit walk is gentler and mostly downhill. On the way back, we stopped at Seaman's Hut and the Snowy River Crossing before returning to Charlotte Pass, tired but exhilarated.
WHAT TO PACK & WEAR
As amateur hikers on a budget, we didn't have all the top-of-the-line fancy equipment that you accumulate with experience, but we made do with what we had (and it worked just fine). Having proper hiking and camping gear is best, of course, but you can get started with the basics and still have an amazing experience.
Packing and clothing also depends on the season, but for the warmer months, here's what worked for us:
CLOTHING
Comfortable hiking clothes
Waterproof and windproof layers
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Warm socks
Hat
Sunglasses
Gloves
Beanie
Hiking bandana
Warm layers for nighttime
A few clothing tips, especially if you're on a budget: invest in a good pair of boots and make sure to break them in before the hike. Quality waterproof layers are worth it too. They make all the difference if the weather turns. For nighttime, lightweight thermals are a lifesaver; warm without being bulky.
PACKING
Water for 2 days (we took 4 litres each)
Meals including at least 1 lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast and snacks
Hiking tent
Sleeping bag rated for alpine conditions
Sunscreen
Rubbish bag
Toilet paper
Hand sanitiser
First aid kit
Torch/headlamp with extra batteries
Personal Locator Beacon (optional; you can hire one from the Visitor Centres, just ask about this when purchasing your park pass).
Some more advice: invest in a good sleeping bag; it's the one thing that will really keep you warm at night. We would also pack a sleeping mat and inflatable pillow now, though we managed without on this hike.
WHERE TO STAY
Camping on the Mountain – Rawson Pass
Rawson Pass is the obvious choice if you want to camp near the summit. It's usually busy during the day, but very peaceful at night. There's a flat grassy area next to the path, perfect for setting up your tent, with surrounding peaks that block the wind. There is also a toilet block open all night. Yes, there are toilets at the top of this mountain! They may not be luxurious, but they're definitely convenient.
Kosciuszko National Park – Island Bend Campground
Island Bend Campground is great for the night before or after your hike. The sites are unmarked, so it's first in, first served, but you will need to make a booking in advance which includes a small fee.
A good fact to know: Summer through Autumn is Horse/March Fly season. They are relentless, they bite, and a simple spray of bug repellent doesn’t do much to keep them at bay. A campfire helps (if there are no fire bans), and once the sun sets, they usually disappear.
Jindabyne – Alpine Gables
For a proper bed, shower, and a little comfort after the hike, we stayed at Alpine Gables in Jindabyne. It's close to the shops, restaurants, and pubs and it was fairly affordable in February, as the peak time for Jindabyne is the winter ski season.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Hiking Mount Kosciuszko overnight was our first multi-day adventure, and as amateur hikers, it was challenging, rewarding, epic and unforgettable. Experience, general fitness, proper gear and preparation are important and do help, but even if you're new to overnight hiking, this trail is very achievable. The memories you make along the way will likely leave you eager for your next adventure, as it certainly did for us.
Mount Kosciuszko is more than just a hike; it's a chance to experience the Australian Alps in all their beauty, and camping overnight gives you a perspective that a day trip simply can't match.