Snowies Alpine Traverse
Snowies Alpine Traverse
Overview
Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Snowy Mountains.
Escape the crowds and join us on this 7 day adventure through the heart of Australia’s high country. Summit iconic peaks, visit historic alpine huts and walk along alpine ridgelines as you traverse the high plains of Kosciuszko National Park. Enjoy serene mountain sunrises and sunsets afforded by a 7 day wilderness camping experience.
This trip follows the Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT), covering 113km from Kiandra (NSW) to Dead Horse Gap (NSW). As Australia’s premiere long-distance alpine bushwalk, the AAWT connects some of Australia’s finest alpine terrain, providing hikers with access to some of the most remote parts of the Australian Alps.
If desired, this trip also offers a great opportunity to develop your outdoor skills and knowledge. Our world-class guides are passionate about sharing their experience. Learn how to lighten your pack, nail your nutrition and navigate in the backcountry on this 7 day trip through the Snowies.
Key Features
- An isolated and quiet wilderness walking experience.
- Famous Australian alpine wildflowers and snow gums.
- A variety of track types including firetrails, single track, and off track walking.
- Many historic alpine huts (10+ depending on side trips taken).
- Walk through Kosciuszko National Park, including exploring Australia’s Snowy Mountains and summiting Mount Kosciuszko (the highest point in Australia).
Highlights
- Summiting Mt Jagungal (optional side trip).
- Visiting the head of Valentine Falls, which has a total drop of 120m (optional side trip).
- Traversing the Rolling Grounds.
- Walking past Australia’s highest alpine lakes including Lake Cootapatamba, Club Lake, Blue Lake, and Lake Albina.
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. This aligns with our experience based on over 35,000km of hiking. 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. 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: Kiandra to Happys Hut, 20.7km
Starting the day in Canberra at 7 am, we board the bus for a 2.5-hour drive to Kiandra, a historic gold mining town recognised as the birthplace of Australian skiing. Following Tabletop Mountain Trail, we pass remnants of the 1860s gold rush, including weathered aqueducts and rusted machinery, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
Ascending past Selwyn Snow Resort, we immerse ourselves in Australia’s high country, with sweeping views of rolling mountains covered with snow gums. Here, you have the option to take a detour and summit Tabletop Mountain, a volcanic plug rising 150 meters above the surrounding landscape. This summit offers panoramic views of the Main Range, our final destination.
Beyond Tabletop Mountain, we briefly follow fireroads before venturing off-track to Happys Hut, our campsite for the night. Happys Hut was burnt down in the 2019/2020 bushfires, but was rebuilt in 2024.
Popular side trips:
- Tabletop Mountain (1.3km return)
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 2: Happys Hut to Mackays Hut, 16.8km
Departing Happys Hut, we head off-track again, this time towards Brooks Hut, another recently rebuilt shelter. From here, we follow the Brooks Hut Trail until it connects with the AAWT at Grey Mare Trail. As we continue along Grey Mare Trail through open grasslands, we enter the Jagungal Wilderness. Known for its alpine, grassy terrain, this area offers sweeping views of the Snowy Mountains. In springtime, the landscape comes alive with vibrant alpine wildflowers, adding bursts of colour to the green tussock.
The remainder of the day takes us along open tracks as we make our way to Mackays Hut, where we will set up camp for the night.
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 3: Mackays Hut to Derschkos Hut, 16.7km
Leaving Mackays Hut, we continue along Grey Mare Trail, crossing both Doubtful Creek and Bogong Creek as we make our way toward O’Keefes Hut, renowned for its newspaper-lined walls.
From O’Keefes Hut, you have the chance to leave your pack behind and summit Mount Jagungal, the northernmost 2,000-meter peak in Australia and the source of the Tumut and Geehi rivers. A prominent landmark in the region, Mount Jagungal offers uninterrupted views across the Jagungal Wilderness and toward the Main Range, with no surrounding peaks to obstruct views.
After descending from the summit, we follow the open fireroad to Derschkos Hut, where we camp for the night.
Popular side trips:
- Mt Jagungal (5.2km return)
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 4: Derschkos Hut to Schlink Hut, 23.7km
We begin the day with an easy walk along Grey Mare Trail, winding through gently undulating alpine grasslands. A short detour leads us to Grey Mare Hut, which was built in 1934 for mining. Beside the hut, you find remnants of old mining machinery, offering a glimpse into the area’s past.
After visiting the hut, we rejoin the AAWT and follow Valentine Trail. The well-maintained track allows for steady progress as we head toward Valentine Hut. Painted a striking red, Valentine Hut stands out and is one of the region’s most iconic huts. For those interested, a brief side trip takes you to the head of Valentine Falls, the highest waterfall in Kosciuszko National Park, with an impressive total drop of 120 meters.
Later in the afternoon, we continue along a well-formed fireroad, eventually reaching Schlink Hut, where we set up camp for the night.
Popular side trips:
- Grey Mare Hut (900m return)
- Valentine Falls (2km return)
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 5: Schlink Hut to Whites River Hut, 3.4km
Today, we journey from Schlink Hut along fireroad toward Whites River Hut. Situated at the base of the Rolling Grounds, Whites River Hut offers an ideal spot to rest and recharge before our final two days traversing the Main Range.
For those eager to explore further, you can join your guides on an optional trek to visit a few more historic huts. This adventure takes us down to Guthega Power Station via Disappointment Spur Track. Along the way, we stop at Disappointment Spur Hut before descending to the Munyang River, where we meet our support vehicle and resupply. On the return to Whites River Hut, we stop to visit Horse Camp Hut, built in the 1950’s for surveying and a popular hut for backcountry skiers to visit in winter.
Popular side trips:
- Horse Camp Hut and Disappointment Spur Hut (16.4km return)
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 6: Whites River Hut to Wilkinsons Creek, 23.7km
Ascending onto the Main Range, we traverse the Rolling Grounds and immerse ourselves in the pristine alpine environment of Australia’s highest peaks. The trail follows a faint footpath through open grassy terrain, with alpine wildflowers and granite boulders scattered throughout the landscape.
As we journey across the Main Range, you have the option to leave your pack behind and venture along a narrow ridgeline to summit Mount Sentinel, a prominent peak and one of our most highly recommended side trips. Shortly after, you can take another optional detour to Blue Lake, the most famous alpine lake on the Main Range and one of the few places you can ice climb during the Australian winter.
Continuing along the Main Range Track, we pass two more alpine lakes, Club Lake and Albina Lake, as we follow a well-defined trail toward Muellers Pass. Here, you have the opportunity to make one final side trip for the day and climb Mount Townsend (2,209 m), Australia’s second-highest peak. This summit offers breathtaking views of the Main Range and Mount Kosciuszko, all in a quieter, less crowded setting.
The day concludes with a descent to Wilkinson’s Creek, a sheltered campsite renowned for its spectacular sunsets over the mountains on clear evenings.
Popular side trips:
- Mt Twynam (500m return)
- Mt Sentinel (3.3km return)
- Blue Lake (3.4km return)
- Mt Townsend (5km return)
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 7: Wilkinsons Creek to Dead Horse Gap, 14.6km
Our final day begins with a sunrise ascent of Mount Kosciuszko. Arriving early, we avoid the crowds and take in the panoramic views of the Snowy Mountains, relishing the unique experience of standing atop the highest point in Australia.
After descending from the summit, we pass Lake Cootapatamba and leave the marked trail to explore the Rams Head Range. This off-track route is a highlight of our journey, offering a final immersive experience in the high country and the opportunity to climb three additional prominent peaks.
From Rams Head South, we descend along a narrow trail framed by snow gums. Our adventure concludes at Dead Horse Gap, where you have the opportunity to celebrate with a well-deserved hot meal in Jindabyne before making the drive back to Canberra that evening.
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 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 10kg 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.
- Access to a support vehicle on day 5 to resupply food.
- Transport from and to Canberra at the beginning and end of the trek.
- Detailed pre-tour preparation package tailored to your trip in the Snowies.
- A professionally edited video of the trip.
Bespoke Paintings
The Adventure Gene is excited to offer the opportunity to commemorate your journey with us by receiving a personalised commission painting by local Canberra artist, Ineka Voigt. Personalised commissions are based on a chosen photograph, or series of photographs and everyone receives 20% off their first painting. Click here for more details.
The Adventure Gene, Ineka Voigt 2024. Oil on canvas board, 30cm x 40cm. The Sentinel, Kosciuszko National Park.
- Group Discount Available LimitedSundayFeb 16, 2025SaturdayFeb 22, 2025AUD $2,495.003Available
- Group Discount Available LimitedSundayOct 19, 2025SaturdayOct 25, 2025AUD $2,495.005Available
- Group Discount Available LimitedSundayNov 23, 2025SaturdayNov 29, 2025AUD $2,495.006Available
- Group Discount Available LimitedFridayDec 19, 2025ThursdayDec 25, 2025AUD $2,495.005Available
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 travel insurance that covers the following:
- Medical evacuation by air, land, or sea. Please note that any evacuation deemed necessary by the guides will be the financial responsibility of the guest.
- 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.
FAQs
What level of fitness and experience is required for this tour?
Previous hiking and camping experience is not required. Our guides are experts and can teach you everything you need to know. Additionally, 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 ~10kg pack for extended periods of time and for multiple days in a row. This includes walking 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?
For a multiday hike with camping, we rate this tour as moderate. You can see the distance and elevation details in the table below:
| Average | Minimum | Maximum | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance (km) | 17 | 3.4 | 23.7 |
| Elevation gain (m) | 500 | 30 | 950 |
Daily walking times are generally between 4-8 hours. Due to the small group size and having two guides, we are able to cater to a wide range of walking speeds and encourage everyone to walk at their own pace. Additionally, we can tailor the difficulty of the trek by adjusting which side trips each person does.
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 10kg for nearly the entire trek. Gear provided will equate to 3.5-4kg. This leaves clothing, personal items, food and water making up the rest of the weight.
Food:
We have a 4.5 day food carry, followed by a 2.5 day food carry. For the longer food carry, each person will initially have to carry up to 4.5kg of food.
Water:
Whilst water is generally readily available in this region, it is highly dependent on recent rainfall. It is uncommon to carry more than 2L of water, and the longest water carry for this trek could be up to 22km.
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 type of meals do you provide?
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. All food is designed as part of our nutrition program to ensure high energy levels for the duration of the trip.
The following are some examples of our favourite trail meals and snacks.
Breakfast:
- Trail oats with mixed nuts, dried fruit, chia seeds and maple syrup.
- A breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs, bacon, refried beans, spinach, cheese and tomato sauce wrapped in a soft tortilla.
- Buckwheat pancakes with Nutella, dried fruit and nuts.
Lunch:
- A backcountry charcuterie board! Consisting of a selection of cheeses, crackers, cured meats and hummus.
- Pitta pockets filled with olives, sundried tomatoes, cheddar, spinach and cured meat.
- Creamy pumpkin soup with sourdough bread.
Dinner:
- Trail-made gnocchi in a tomato and herb sauce.
- Cumin, lentil and apricot dahl.
- Nachos; refried beans, corn, avocado and cheese served on crispy corn chips.
What should I do with my luggage?
You are welcome to leave a carry on size bag of luggage with the support vehicle for the duration of the trip. If you have more luggage than this, 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 in Haig Park, Braddon. There are many options for accomodation near here.
What should I pack for the tour?
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?
We have both one person and two person tents available. Whilst we recommend sharing a tent to reduce pack weight, it is not a requirement. If you choose to use a one person tent, this will equate to carrying roughly an extra 325g. If you choose to carry a two person tent for yourself, this will equate to carrying roughly an extra 540g.
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 almost every day 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.
What kind of terrain will we be hiking on?
The Snowies offer a diverse range of terrains and track qualities. We will spend time walking along well-formed tracks, as well as navigating off trail. Hikers will experience steep ascents and descents, river crossings and trekking through uneven terrain.
Are there age restrictions for this tour?
All participants must be over the age of 18. 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 licensed to run guided tours?
Yes, we are fully licensed and insured NSW EcoPass Operators.
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.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help you out!
