Jagungal Wilderness Snowshoe Expedition
Jagungal Wilderness Snowshoe Expedition
Overview
Discover the untouched beauty of the Jagungal Wilderness in winter on this 4-day snowshoe adventure. Traverse expansive snow-covered plains, meander through towering snow gums, and visit historic high-country huts, including the hidden Mawsons Hut. With breathtaking winter scenery, crisp mountain air, and the peaceful solitude of the backcountry, this adventure is perfect for those looking to dip their toes into winter travel.
Join us for an unforgettable winter adventure through Jagungal Wilderness.
Contents
Key Features
This Jagungal Wilderness snowshoe expedition features:
- An isolated and quiet wilderness snowshoeing experience.
- Famous Australian snow gums.
- Sunsets and sunrises over snowy covered mountains.
- Panoramic winter views across the high country.
Highlights
- Explore the Australian backcountry during winter.
- Traverse off-track in Jagungal Wilderness using snowshoes.
- Visit historic alpine huts, including Horse Camp, Whites River, Schlink, Valentines and Mawsons Hut.
- Enjoying a quiet wilderness experience without the crowds.
- Summit Mt Gungartan.
Wilderness Immersion
At the core of The Adventure Gene is the belief that outside is better than inside. Our trips are designed to get you deep into nature, away from big cities and crowded walks filled with day hikers. That’s why we only provide tent-based adventures. We want you to see the sunrise (and the sunset). To hear the birds talking after the rain passes. To feel the cool breeze come in after a day of walking. To be outside, in our natural environment.
Indeed, a 2022 meta-analysis of scientific studies found that 98% of people improved their mental health after engaging with natural outdoor environments. Our 35,000km of hiking experience agrees with that. However, it’s not as simple as just being in nature. Recent research shows that the biggest benefits come from connecting and engaging with the natural environment (1, 2, 3).
Based off these recent findings, each day on trail we will run a short, optional, mindfulness exercise to help you notice, engage, and connect with the surrounding natural environment. All of our guides are qualified instructors, where current research at Macquarie University shows that as little as 20 minutes of nature engagement per week is enough to feel:
- 50% more relaxed
- 36% happier
- 20% less negative
- 7.7% more productive
- 31% more connected to the natural environment
Of course, on this trip we are lucky to have far more than 20 minutes to engage with the incredible nature available to us ☺️
Itinerary
Meet your guides in Canberra the afternoon before the tour starts. You will receive all your gear (tent, sleeping bag, pack etc.) and we will do a final clothing check.
Day 1: Guthega Power Station to Whites River Hut (via Horse Camp Hut), 8.65km
We begin in Canberra, driving through the alpine towns of Cooma and Jindabyne before arriving at Guthega Power Station. We begin our adventure by following Schlink Pass Road, gradually climbing up into the high country. Along the way, we visit Horse Camp Hut, originally built in the 1950’s for surveying.
Following the well formed track, we make our way up to Whites River Hut, popping our snowshoes on once we hit the snow! We arrive at camp in the early afternoon, allowing for plenty of time to familiarise ourselves with the winter tents and sleep system. Afterwards, we enjoy some hot drinks and a campfire in the hut before dinner.
Meals provided: Lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 2: Whites River Hut to Mawsons Hut (via Valentine Hut), 13.3km
Day 2 begins with a short climb up to Schlink Pass, before we continue along to Schlink Hut. Following the Australian Alps Walking Track, we continue along Valentine Trail towards Valentine Hut. With its striking red colour, the hut stands out amongst the snow covered plains.
After a good break and some hot drinks in the hut, we head off track towards Mawsons Hut. Built in 1930, the hut is well known amongst backcountry skiers and offers fantastic views towards Mt Jagungal.
After setting up camp, we spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying a warm fire inside the hut.
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 3: Mawsons Hut to Schlink Hut (via Mt Gungartan), 12.1km
Departing Mawsons Hut, we head south following the ridegline to Gungartan Pass. Here, we have the opportunity to take a detour to summit Mt Gungartan (2,068m), the highest peak on mainland Australia outside the Main Range.
On clear days, the summit offers great views back towards Mt Jagungal, as well as into the valley below. After descending from the summit, we make our way to Schlink Hut, where we set up camp for the night.
Optional side trips:
- Mt Gungartan (2.2km return)
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 4: Schlink Hut to Guthega Power Station (via Disappointment Spur), 11.2km
On our final day, we follow Schlink Pass Road past Whites River Hut. Making our way down to Guthega Power Station, we follow Disappointment Spur Trail and pass Disappointment Spur Hut. This small shelter was built in the 1950’s for surveying.
Continuing down the track, we cross the Munyang River before arriving at Guthega Power Station. Hopping into the van, we make our way into Jindabyne for the chance to grab some hot food before continuing back to Canberra.
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch & snacks
Please note that the listed itinerary is a guide. Due to many circumstances including those beyond our control (e.g. weather, park closures etc.), the route may need to be altered and/or side trips not offered.
Map
Inclusions
- Modern winter hiking gear including tents, sleeping bags, packs, mats and trekking poles (plus a bunch of our other favourite little goodies). We estimate you can hike comfortably with a total pack weight under 15kg for nearly the entire trip.
- Quality, nutritious meals, snacks and hot drinks for the entire trip. This includes a cooked breakfast and dinner. Excludes breakfast on the first day, and dinner on the final day.
- Two world-class guides.
- Transport from and to Canberra at the beginning and end of the trek.
- Detailed pre-tour preparation package tailored to winter expeditions.
Food
All meals, snacks and hot drinks are provided, excluding breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day. Breakfast and dinners are hot meals, cooked and enjoyed whilst relaxing at camp. Lunches and snacks will be eaten during breaks throughout the day.
We work with a local freeze-drying company in Canberra to bring you delicious and nutritious meals in the backcountry. Freeze-drying is preferable to dehydrating food because of the improved taste, texture and nutrient preservation. All of the meals we prepare are designed as part of our nutrition program to ensure you are well nourished and maintain high energy levels for the duration of the trip.
We cater for nearly all dietary requirements. This includes vegetarian, vegan, lactose free, gluten free (including coeliac) and general allergies. If you are unsure whether we will be able to cater for your needs, please contact us and we will chat about your options!
The following are some examples of our typical trail meals and snacks.
Breakfast
- Trail oats with mixed nuts, dried fruit, chia seeds and maple syrup.
- Breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs, bacon, refried beans, spinach, cheese and tomato sauce wrapped in a soft tortilla.
- Buckwheat pancakes with Nutella and walnuts.
Lunch
- Shepherd’s pie; freeze-dried beef mince in a Worcestershire sauce, layered with mint peas and topped with creamy mashed potato.
- Wholemeal wraps filled with smashed avo, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes and cheddar.
- Trail nachos; taco-spiced beef mince, refried pinto beans, corn, avocado and cheese served with crispy corn chips.
Dinner
- Fluffy quinoa mixed with tender chicken or tofu in a rich, peanut satay sauce.
- Classic beef spaghetti bolognese with mushrooms and sundried tomatoes, cooked in a tomato and herb sauce and topped with cheese.
- Spicy chicken and risoni pasta tossed in a creamy coconut sauce.
Dessert
- Silky coffee and chocolate tiramisu topped with crispy wafers.
- Freeze-dried ice cream (multiple flavours including Golden Gaytimes)!
- Warm, cinnamon spiced apples topped with a golden, buttery crumble.
Snacks & hot drinks
We have a variety of different snacks, including chocolate (the best hiking food), lollies, nuts, dried fruit, museli bars, chips and pretzels.
For hot drinks, we carry Moccona coffee, milk powder, Milo, black tea, green tea and lemon & ginger tea.
Tour Dates
- Limited Available PackagesFridayJul 25, 2025MondayJul 28, 2025AUD $2,495.006Available
- Limited Available PackagesFridayAug 15, 2025MondayAug 18, 2025AUD $2,495.006Available
Other Information
Preparation Package
This tour includes an extensive preparation package filled with gear suggestions and techniques designed to help you thrive in the Australian Alps. Additionally, you will receive a detailed trip itinerary 8 weeks before the trip starts.
Contact
We encourage you to reach out and ask questions at any time. You can contact us via email (contact@theadventuregene.com), social media or through the website.
Insurance Coverage
All participants are required to have adequate insurance that covers medical evacuation by air, land, or sea. This is typically in the form of ambulance cover, which is normally included in a general private health policy and can cost as little as $50 per year separately. Please note that any evacuation deemed necessary by the guides will be the financial responsibility of the guest.
FAQs
What level of fitness and experience is required for this tour?
Previous snowshoe/snow camping experience is not required for this trip. However, it is recommended that you have some 3 season hiking and camping experience. Our guides are experts and can teach you everything you need to know.
We provide you with all the information you need to prepare for the trip. However, it is essential that you have the required level of fitness and a willingness to learn. You need the fitness required to carry a ~10-15kg pack for extended periods of time and for multiple days in a row. This includes walking through snow, off-trail and up and down steep terrain.
We recommend that all participants engage in regular weekly aerobic activity 3+ times per week. This could include activities such as hiking, cycling, swimming, running, or a team sport with lots of activity (e.g. soccer, AFL, rugby, basketball). Walking on flat concrete paths is not adequate preparation for this trip.
How difficult is this trip and how fast do we walk?
Compared to our summer trips, we rate this tour as moderate to challenging. The level of fitness required for this trips is slightly higher than our summer trips.
You can see the distance and elevation details in the table below:
| Average | Minimum | Maximum | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance (km) | 11.3 | 8 | 12.1 |
| Elevation gain (m) | 429 | 570 | 144 |
Daily walking times are generally between 4-8 hours.
If you are unsure whether this tour is appropriate for you, please contact us. We are more than happy to have a chat and answer any questions you have. We support all our guests in preparing for their trip.
How much weight will I need to carry?
We estimate that you will be able to keep your pack weight below 15kg for nearly the entire trek. Gear provided will equate to 5.5-7kg. This leaves clothing, personal items, food and water making up the rest of the weight.
Food:
We have a 4 day food carry for this trip. This equates to roughly 3.5kg of food per person.
Water:
Water is generally readily available in this region. It is uncommon to carry more than 2L of water.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
We are experienced in catering for a wide range of dietary requirements, provided you let us know in advance. If we are unable to cater for your dietary needs, we will contact you and find an alternative solution.
What should I do with my luggage?
If you have luggage, we recommend that you arrange to leave it at the accomodation you are staying at the night before the trip.
Do I need accomodation before and after the trip?
You will need accomodation for the night before the trip starts as we have our gear check the afternoon of Day 0.
Additionally, we highly recommend booking accomodation for the final night of the trip, as we cannot guarantee the time we will return to Canberra for flights.
Where should I stay in Canberra?
The trip starts and finishes at The Griffin Centre in Civic. There are many options for accomodation near here.
What do I need to bring?
After your place on the tour is confirmed, you will be sent a detailed packing list of required clothing and personal items. We also provide tailored recommendations based on our 35,000+km of experience!
If you are unsure what to pack, make sure to reach out and ask questions at any time.
Do I need to share a tent?
For winter trips, we strongly encourage sharing a tent for safety reasons.
Do you charge a single supplement fee?
No, we do not charge a single supplement fee.
How often will I get to talk to my family?
Telstra provides the best mobile phone coverage through the Snowies. Whilst not always guaranteed, we have found that we have had service at some point every few days along the tour (most consistently at high points and mountain passes). Please note that the reception may not always be good enough to hold a phone conversation, however text messages will generally send with time.
Additionally, both guides will be carrying devices with inReach satellite technology to always have an open line of communication.
Are there age restrictions for this tour?
Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Participants over the age of 70 require medical clearance from their doctor to partake in this tour.
Do I need to carry a first aid kit?
No, our guides carry a comprehensive first aid kit that has everything we will need. However, if you have certain items that you would like to carry, feel free to bring them.
Why do I need to get my gear checked the day before the tour starts?
The entire group will meet in Canberra the afternoon before the tour starts. We will issue your gear and perform a mandatory final gear check. All participants must attend. This is a safety measure to ensure everyone is carrying the appropriate gear for the remote, alpine environments we will encounter.
Do I need travel insurance?
All participants are required to have adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation by air, land, or sea. This is typically in the form of ambulance cover. Please note that any evacuation deemed necessary by the guides will be the financial responsibility of the guest.
It is also recommended that you have insurance that covers potential losses, damages, or injuries, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
Note that The Adventure Gene’s cancellation fees apply and cannot be waived.
Are you licenced to run guided trips in the snow?
Yes, we are fully licensed and insured NSW EcoPass Operators for both 3 season and winter trips.
What is your cancellation policy?
You may change your trip start date, or transfer to another trip, if you notify us more than 90 days before departure.
If you wish to cancel your trip and cannot transfer to another trip, we will charge the following per person:
- 60-90 days before departure: 25% of trip price
- 30-59 days before departure: 50% of trip price
- 15-29 days before departure: 75% of trip price
- 14 days or less before departure: 100% of trip price
No refunds will be given for unused services after the trip starts. Full payment is required 90 days before trip departure. If payment is not received by the due date, we reserve the right to cancel your booking.
