Mt Jagungal Snow Camping Expedition
Mt Jagungal Snow Camping Expedition
Overview
Learn how to thrive in a winter environment on this 6-day snow camping expedition in Jagungal Wilderness. Traversing off-track through vast, snow-covered plains, we’ll explore snow gum forests, travel through open valleys and summit Mt Jagungal.
This trip is perfect for those who want an authentic winter backcountry experience, focusing on practical skills, self-reliance, and the profound quiet of the mountains. Join us for a challenging and rewarding winter expedition.
Contents
Key Features
This Mt Jagungal Snow Camping Expedition features:
- An isolated and quiet wilderness snowshoeing experience.
- Leaning to snow camp.
- World-class winter gear.
- Sunrises and sunsets over snow covered mountains.
Highlights
- Traverse off-track in Jagungal Wilderness using snowshoes.
- Panoramic winter views across the high country.
- Summit Mt Jagungal and 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, 8.65km
Our journey begins in Canberra with a 2.5h drive to Guthega Power Station, passing through the alpine towns of Cooma and Jindabyne along the way. We ease into our adventure by following Schlink Pass Road, gradually ascending into the high country. Along the way, we stop at Horse Camp Hut, a historic shelter built in the 1950s for surveying.
Continuing along the well-formed track, we hike toward Whites River Hut, strapping on our snowshoes as we encounter the snow. We arrive at camp by early afternoon, giving us plenty of time to get acquainted with the winter tents and sleep system. Later, we unwind with hot drinks and a cozy 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 to Schlink Pass before we continue toward Schlink Hut. Following the Australian Alps Walking Track, we make our way along Valentine Trail to Valentine Hut, its striking red exterior standing out against the snow-covered plains.
After a well-earned break and a hot drink inside the hut, we leave the trail and make our own track heading toward Mawsons Hut. Built in 1930, this historic shelter is a favourite among backcountry skiers and offers stunning views of Mt Jagungal.
Once camp is set up, we spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the warmth of a fire inside the hut.
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Days 3-4: Mt Jagungal summit, 20.0km
Over the next two days, our mission is to summit Mt Jagungal (2061m), the seventh highest mountain in Australia.
Leaving Mawsons Hut, we make our way across vast, open terrain and cross the Geehi River. With prominent landmarks and no set track to follow, this is the perfect place to practice winter backcountry navigation for those who are interested.
Depending on the weather, we summit Mt Jagungal either on the afternoon of Day 3, or the morning of Day 4. From the peak, we take in 360 views of the Australian high country blanketed in snow. On clear days, you can see as far as the Main Range.
On Day 4, we take a different route back to Mawson’s Hut, passing Tarn Bluff and Cup and Saucer Hill along the way.
Optional side trips:
- Mt Jagungal (2.6km return)
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 5: 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 & snacks
Day 6: Schlink Hut to Guthega Power Station, 11.5km
On our final day, we follow Schlink Pass Road past Whites River Hut, gradually descending toward Guthega Power Station. Along the way, we walk underneath snow covered snow gums as we continue along Horse Camp Aqueduct Trail.
After stopping for lunch at Horse Camp Hut, we continue our descent down to Guthega Power Station. From there, we hop into the van and head to Jindabyne for the opportunity to grab a well-earned hot meal 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.
Intimate Group Sizes
All of our trips have a strict maximum group size of 8 people. With 2 full-time guides, we have an industry leading guest to guide ratio of 4:1. This means our guides are always available if you need them, and you’re free to walk at your own pace.
Gear
We provide state-of-the-art modern hiking gear for the trip. All of the gear we provide is kit that we have and personally choose to use on our own hikes. The gear is lightweight but does not compromise on comfort or safety. The total weight of this gear equates to roughly 7kg and is valued at $5000.
Please note that on all winter trips, you will be required to share a tent. If you are a solo traveller, you will not be asked to share with the opposite sex.
Gear provided includes the following:
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
Want to secure your spot? We only require a $99 deposit to confirm your place on the trip. We have payment plans available with full payment required 60 days before the trip start date. Please get in touch if you have any questions, want to join the waitlist for a sold out trip, or would like a personalised payment plan.
Sunday
Friday
AUD $3,495
Sunday
Friday
AUD $3,495
Sunday
Friday
AUD $3,495
Sunday
Friday
AUD $3,495
Stay informed and find out about new dates!
Compare
We provide the most supportive and all-inclusive multi-day snow camping trips in Australia. We are industry leaders by providing the best gear, world-class guides, top quality food, intimate group sizes, detailed preparation support and extensive opportunities for skill development.
The table below compares our trips to similar tent-based guided winter tours.
| Our Trips | Similar Trips | |
|---|---|---|
| Provided Gear | All gear included. No additional hire fees. | Either not provided, only some items provided, or has an extra hire fee. |
| Gear Quality | Modern and lightweight. We aim to keep your pack under 15kg for nearly the entire trip. | Usually outdated, heavy gear with pack weight sometimes over 25kg. |
| Guides | 2 full-time, world-class hiking guides, always walking with the group. | Sometimes one guide. If there are two guides, one is often driving the bus or not walking with the group. |
| Provided Food | All food provided, including snacks and hot drinks. | Not always provided or comes at an additional expense. |
| Food Quality | We always make our own meals. We use freeze-dried ingredients for increased taste, texture, and nutrition. | Often dehydrated meals from a packet. |
| Group Size | Maximum group size of 8, with an industry-leading guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4. | Frequently 10+ group size with only one walking guide (ratio of 1:10). |
| Wilderness Immersion | Optional daily mindfulness exercises to engage with the natural environment. | Guided mindfulness sessions are rarely included. |
| Preparation Support | Detailed preparation package with clothing, training, footwear, and blister prevention suggestions. | Usually only a simple packing list. |
| Skill Development | Strong focus on education and skill development for those who are interested. | Typically less focused on skill development. |
Other Information
Money Back Guarantee
Your safety and enjoyment are paramount. That’s why we guarantee that our guides are seasoned-experts who will ensure that you feel supported, informed, and secure every step of the way.
In the unlikely event that you don’t feel like you had this experience, we will give you a full refund.
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.
Stay Up To Date
Join our Facebook Event to get the latest information and updates about the trip. It’s also a great way to discuss with others, ask any questions you might have, and learn about special deals, new trip dates + promos.
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 snowshoeing/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 ~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) | 10.8 | 8 | 12.1 |
| Elevation gain (m) | 407 | 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 6 day food carry for this trip. This equates to roughly 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.
Where is the pickup point for the trips?
The trip starts and finishes at The Griffin Centre. 20 Genge St, Canberra, 2601.
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. 20 Genge St, Canberra, 2601. There are many options for accommodation near here.
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.
Where can I leave my car if I drive to Canberra?
You should contact your accomodation to discuss whether they would be happy for you to leave your car with them during the trip.
We have an agreement with Canberra Rex Hotel to store your car for free for the duration of your hike, provided you stay with them before and after the trip. They will be able to keep your car across the road in their overflow carpark (outside, not undercover) whilst you are away. However, you should call them to confirm they can do this for the dates you are looking at.
You also have the option to get a multi-day permit for government car parks.
If you prefer undercover parking, there are several options in the city that have paid parking for ~$35/day.
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?
On winter trips, you will be required to share a tent. If you are a solo traveller, you will not be asked to share with the opposite sex.
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.
“The X-Mid 1 is my favorite tent…it is a great shelter if you want a trekking pole tent that is affordable, spacious, stormworthy, and packs up small.”