Discover Australia's highest peak - a stunning alpine summit with breathtaking views of the Snowy Mountains, glacial lakes, and the vast Australian Alps
Iconic route to the summit of Kosciuszko offering spectacular views of the Snowy Mountains, glacial lakes, and the vast Australian Alps. Perfect for intermediate hikers seeking the classic Kosciuszko experience.
Challenging route through the Main Range offering spectacular views of Kosciuszko, glacial lakes, and the Snowy Mountains. For experienced hikers seeking to explore the entire alpine region.
Panoramic circuit trail offering stunning 360-degree views of Kosciuszko, glacial lakes, and the entire Snowy Mountains range. Perfect for photographers and those seeking comprehensive alpine vistas.
Mount Kosciuszko, rising 2,228 meters above the Australian Alps, stands as Australia's highest peak and one of the most accessible alpine summits in the world. Its distinctive rounded summit and dramatic alpine setting have made it a symbol of Australian wilderness and outdoor adventure.
The mountain is part of the Snowy Mountains range, which includes numerous peaks and glacial lakes. The area is home to brumbies, wombats, and unique alpine flora. The accessible terrain and well-maintained trails make it a destination for hikers of all abilities from around Australia and the world.
Kosciuszko lies within Kosciuszko National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that protects some of Australia's most spectacular alpine scenery and the headwaters of the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers.
Explore Mountain Features
Experience Australia's highest mountain, with its distinctive rounded summit and dramatic alpine setting in the heart of the Snowy Mountains.
Spot brumbies, wombats, wallabies, and unique alpine flora adapted to the high-altitude environment of the Australian Alps.
Witness the stunning glacial lakes, alpine streams, and the dramatic contrast between snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear waters.
Capture the ever-changing light on Kosciuszko's alpine faces, dramatic weather patterns, and the pristine Australian wilderness.
Kosciuszko has been a sacred landmark for the Ngarigo people for thousands of years, who called it "Tar-gan-gil" meaning "big mountain" due to its prominent position in the landscape. The mountain holds deep cultural and spiritual significance.
The first recorded European sighting was in 1840 by Polish explorer Paweł Edmund Strzelecki, who named it after Polish national hero Tadeusz Kościuszko. The first recorded ascent was made by Strzelecki himself in 1840.
Now a beloved destination for hikers, skiers, and nature lovers, Kosciuszko continues to inspire with its accessible terrain, stunning alpine scenery, and unique Australian wilderness, embodying the spirit of the Snowy Mountains.
Learn more about Kosciuszko's history
The distinctive rounded summit of Kosciuszko offers some of the most accessible and family-friendly mountain experiences in Australia, with gentle slopes that welcome hikers of all abilities.
The iconic glacial lake near Kosciuszko offers one of the most photographed views in the Snowy Mountains, with the alpine peaks reflected in its pristine waters and the Australian Alps as backdrop.
The vast Snowy Mountains range, Australia's highest mountain range, provides a stunning backdrop to Kosciuszko and feeds the numerous glacial lakes and streams that surround the mountain.
Watch for brumbies grazing on the alpine meadows, wombats burrowing in the valleys, and wallabies hopping through the snow gums - an integral part of the Kosciuszko experience in wild Australia.
Prepare for your journey with these essential tips:
Address: Mount Kosciuszko, Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales, Australia
Coordinates: 36.4564°S, 148.2633°E
Located near Thredbo in Kosciuszko National Park, accessible by car or bus. The main trails start from the village of Thredbo.
Wear sturdy boots, layered clothing for all weather conditions, and waterproof gear. Alpine weather can be unpredictable and can change rapidly.
Yes! The Summit Walk Trail is family-friendly and suitable for children with good fitness. The trails are well-maintained and offer a great introduction to alpine hiking.
No fees are required to hike the trails around Kosciuszko. However, you may need to pay for parking or camping permits in certain areas of Kosciuszko National Park.
Absolutely. Kosciuszko offers spectacular photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. Please stay on marked trails and respect the fragile alpine environment.
December to March offers the best conditions, though weather can be unpredictable. Winter hiking requires snow experience due to snow and cold conditions.
Some areas around Thredbo have accessible paths, but the mountain trails themselves are not wheelchair accessible due to their alpine terrain.
Look for brumbies, wombats, wallabies, and unique alpine flora adapted to the high-altitude environment of the Australian Alps.