Cootapatamba lookout

Many areas above about 1800m in altitude in Kosciuszko National Park are currently snow covered from recent snowfalls and post winter snow. Please note the following information when visiting these areas:

General:

• Refer to our Alpine Safety page.
• Check the weather on the Bureau of Meteorology website Australian Alpine Weather page.
• Complete a trip intention form before your visit. This is a requirement for this winter.
• Refer to MSC Backcountry conditions report.

Be prepared:

• Low visibility, extreme winds, heavy snowfalls can all occur without warning.
• Wear and carry appropriate clothing, carry navigation equipment and be prepared for extreme conditions.
• Track surfaces and signs may not be visible.

Travel with care:

• Choose your routes carefully
• Steep and icy terrain and thin snow/ice cover over rivers and lakes can make travel very dangerous.
• Deep soft spring snow can collapse underneath you - mind your steps.

Avalanche:

• Even at this time of year there is a risk of avalanches in the higher areas of Kosciuszko National Park, particularly on Main Range and around Mount Kosciuszko.
• Steeper, treeless slopes and the tops of ridges where overhanging cornices develop carry the greatest risk.
• Snow stability varies with wind, temperature and the amount and patterns of snowfall.
• Avalanches can occur at any time through winter or spring and can be fatal.
• Back country travellers should check snow and weather conditions before departure and remain alert.

Perisher/Main Range - areas above about 1800m: Including Kosciuszko walk, Main Range walk, Summit walk, Mt Stillwell walk and Hanells Spur walk:

Expect some continuous snow cover and long stretches:

• Skis or snowshoes may make your trip easier and safer. Ensure footwear is waterproof, solid and with good grip.
• Take a map and compass and know how to use them. All tracks are under snow and not visible. Most don't have above snow markers.
• Take extreme caution when on all steep slopes.

High sub-alpine - areas above 1700m: Including Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk, Snowgum boardwalk, Porcupine walk, Schlink Hut walk and Dead Horse Gap track:

Expect short stretches of snow cover:

• Ensure footwear is waterproof, solid and with good grip.
• Take a map and compass and know how to use them. Sections of tracks will not be obvious and most don't have above snow markers.
• Take extreme caution when on all steep slopes due to slippery surfaces.

For more information, call the NPWS Snowy Region Visitor Centre on 02 6450 5600.