Mount Kosciuszko hike or summit walk is one of the most popular outdoor activities of nature lovers in Australia. Let’s see the way to get to the summit and other facts about Mount Kosciuszko, such as its height, its location, etc.
Overview Of Mount Kosciuszko
Mount Kosciuszko in New South Wales is the highest summit in Australia, with a height of 2,228 meters above sea level. Mount Kosciuszko is a piece of the Australian Alps, which includes the Victorian Alps and the Snowy Mountains.
Not only is it a popular ski destination, but this mountain is also known as the ideal spot for hiking.
Here are some facts about Mount Kosciuszko that might interest you.
- As we mentioned above, this is the highest mountain in Australia. However, with a height of 2,228 meters, Mount Kosciuszko is not that high compared to other high peaks in the world.
- Like other mountains, those who reached the summit would have the right to name it. In this case, it was Sir Paul Edmund Strzelecki, a Polish explorer. Sir Paul Edmund Strzelecki reached mount’s peak in 1840. Then, he named the mountain in reverence of his hero, General Tadeusz Kościuszko. That’s how the mount gets its name.
- It’s quite easy to get to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko. We will show you the details in the following parts, so be patient!
- The mountain sits in a national park, which has the same name of it. Kosciuszko National Park is home to the most heightened cliffs on mainland Australia.
- During the 1970s, you could even drive your car up to the summit. However, because of environmental concerns, the government closed the road leading from Charlotte Pass to the summit in 1977.
Guide To Mount Kosciuszko Hike
This hiking guide shows different walking trails that lead you to the peak of Australia’s highest mountain, offering stunning sights of Kosciuszko National Park.
There are two primary walking trails leading to the summit. One departs in Thredbo and the other one is in Charlotte Pass. The best time to take the hike is from December to March, after the snow melts.
Thredbo Hike
This is the shortest walk at 13km in length. You’ll have to spend four to five hours to complete it.
First, take a ride on the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift. Then, from the top of the Kosciuszko Chairlift, walk along the trail that winds up above Lake Cootapatamba. This trail is quite easy for people of all ages.
Charlotte Pass Hike
The other summit walk starts from Charlotte Pass. It’s an 18.6km return trip which takes approximately six to eight hours to complete.
If you ride a bike, leave it at the Rawson Pass stands. Then, walk ahead for 1.4km to reach the summit.
What To Pack When Taking The Mount Kosciuszko Hike
There are things you need to prepare before taking the Mount Kosciuszko hike. We have some suggestions below, read them in case you need them.
- Wear and layer clothes made of warm materials such as wool and fleece
- Windproof or waterproof jacket and rain pants depending on the weather
- At least 1 liter of water for an adult
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves, and a hat
- Suitable walking shoes
- Light snacks
- Camera and backup batteries
- Needed medication such as Ventolin
And you’re gonna take a guided hike; remember to let your guide know about your pre-existing medical conditions, including musculoskeletal issues, asthma, pregnancy, heart conditions, fear of heights, and motion sickness). This is all for your own safety. The guide will be based on this information to cater the hike to your conditions and make your expedition more pleasant.
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