Snowies Main Range Traverse
Snowies Main Range Traverse
Overview
Get off the beaten track and explore Australia’s alpine rooftop on this traverse of the Main Range. This 4 day wilderness immersion trip provides an authentic outdoor experience without the crowds, taking you through some of the most rewarding and least visited sections of the Australian high country. Take in 360 views of Kosciuszko National Park and watch vibrant sun sets over the mountains on clear nights.
Join us and experience the raw beauty of the Snowy Mountains.
Contents
Key Features
This Main Range traverse features:
- An isolated and quiet wilderness walking experience.
- Famous Australian alpine wildflowers and snow gums.
- A variety of track types including off track walking.
- Summit views from Australia's tallest mountains.
- Stunning sunsets and sunrises over the mountains.
Highlights
- Traversing the Rolling Grounds.
- Walk past Australia’s highest alpine lakes including Lake Cootapatamba, Club Lake, Blue Lake, and Lake Albina.
- Summit the 4 tallest mountains in Australia; Mt Kosciuszko (2228m), Mt Townsend (2209m), Mt Twynam (2196m) and Rams Head (2190m).
- Traverse the Rams Head Range, our favourite off-track section on the Main Range.
- Quiet camping up on the Main Range.
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 at 2PM 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
Starting in Canberra, we drive through the alpine towns of Cooma and Jindabyne before reaching Guthega Power Station, the starting place of our walk. We begin our trip by following Schlink Pass Road before continuing along Horse Camp Aqueduct Trail. Walk through canopies of snow gums and spot native alpine wildflowers as we ascend into the high country. Along the way, we visit Horse Camp Hut, a historic hut built in the 1950s for surveying, before continuing the gradual climb up to Whites River Hut. This large iron shelter, originally built in 1935, is one of the most famous historic huts in Kosciuszko National Park, partially due to its central location for winter backcountry ski trips. Setting up camp, we spend the night here at the base of the Rolling Grounds.
Meals provided: Lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 2: Whites River Hut to Pounds Creek Flat, 13.5km
Day 2 begins with a gradual climb onto the Rolling Grounds. Characterised by its wide, expansive terrain, and scattered with granite boulders and alpine wildflowers, the Rolling Grounds are one of our favourite off-track walking sections in Kosciuszko National Park. We navigate through alpine tussock and weave around moss-covered boulders as we take in extensive views of the Snowy Mountains. On clear days, you can see Mt Kosciuszko and sections of the Main Range that we traverse in the coming days. For those looking to bag some peaks, you can detour ~100m off track to summit Mt Tate (2068m), Mann Bluff (2004m), Mt Davis (1920m), Mt Anderson (1991m), and Mt Anton (2015m).
We finish the day at Pounds Creek Flat, a sheltered and secluded camping spot at the base of Mt Twynam, surrounded by crystal clear water holes.
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 3: Pounds Creek Flat to Wilkinson's Creek, 10.6km
We begin our day by watching the sunrise over Perisher valley. Our walking starts with a short climb to the summit of Mt Twynam (2196m). As the third tallest mountain in Australia, we take in 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains before continuing along the Main Range. You have the option to drop your pack and detour along the narrow ridgeline to summit Mt Sentinel, a prominent peak in the area and one of our most recommended side trips. A short while later, you can take another side trip to visit Blue Lake, the most famous alpine lake on the Main Range and one of the few places in Australia suitable for ice climbing in winter.
Continuing along the Main Range Track, we pass two more alpine lakes, Club Lake and Albina Lake, as we follow the well-formed track toward Muellers Pass. Here, you have the option to take one final detour for the day to summit Mt Townsend (2209m), the second tallest mountain in Australia. This peak offers fantastic views of the Main Range and Mt Kosciuszko without the crowds.
We finish our day by descending to Wilkinson’s Creek, a sheltered campsite that offers spectacular sunsets across the Victorian mountains on clear nights.
Popular side trips:
- The Sentinel (4.3km return)
- Blue Lake (3.4km return)
- Mt Townsend (5.1km return)
Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
Day 4: Wilkinson's Creek to Dead Horse Gap, 14.5km
On our final day, we begin by getting up before dawn to enjoy the sunrise from Australia’s highest mountain range. Afterwards, it is a short 3km walk to Mt Kosciuszko (2228m). By arriving early we get to avoid the large crowds that typically visit later in the day. We take in extensive views of the Snowy Mountains, with visibility over 100km in all directions in good weather.
Descending from Mt Kosciuszko, we pass Lake Cootapatamba before leaving the established trail to traverse the Rams Head. As one of our favourite off-track sections on the Main Range, this alternate route down to Dead Horse Gap provides a final immersive wilderness experience in the high country while also offering the opportunity to summit three more prominent peaks in the region. For those seeking a more technical challenge, some rock scrambling is required to summit Rams Head North.
We walk past alpine fens and weave around boulders as we traverse the rolling alpine terrain. Descending from Rams Head South, we finish our trip along single track surrounded by Snow Gums. Arriving at Dead Horse Gap, you have the opportunity to grab some hot food in Jindabyne before we 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 (see below). 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.
- Transport from and to Canberra at the beginning and end of the trek.
- Detailed pre-tour preparation package.
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 4.5kg.
This includes the following:
- Tent (875g – 1085g) – Durston X-Mid 1, Durston X-Mid 2
- Sleeping mat (440g) – Therm-a-rest XTherm NXT
- Sleeping bag (695g) – Neve Gear Waratah Pro
- Sleeping bag liner (130g) – Sea To Summit Silk Blend Sleeping Bag Liner
- Inflatable pillow (90g) – Nemo Fillo Elite Pillow
- Hiking pack (850g) – Durston Kakwa 55L
- Trekking poles (165g) – Zpacks Minimalist Trekking Poles
- Sit mat (205g) – Therm-a-rest Z Lite SOL
- Poncho (145g) – Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Nano
- Powerbank (150g) – Nitecore NB10000
- Headtorch (40g) – Nitecore NU25
- Charging cables (40g) – Lightning, USB C, micro USB
- Bidet (12g) – Culoclean Portable Bidet
- Trowel (14g) – BoglerCo Ultralight Trowel
- Bug net (11g) – Sea to Summit Nano Head Net
- Waterproof gloves (45g) – Showa Temres 281
- Food container (135g) – Nalgene 16oz Storage Jar
- Spoon (12g) – Sea to Summit Camp Cutlery Spoon
- Day pack (72g) – Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack 20L
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.
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.
Tour Dates
You will be required to attend a gear check at 2PM the afternoon before the trip starts.
- Limited Available PackagesTuesdayDec 2, 2025FridayDec 5, 2025AUD $1,749.007Available
- Limited Available PackagesMondayDec 29, 2025ThursdayJan 1, 2026AUD $1,749.006Available
- Limited Available PackagesFridayJan 23, 2026MondayJan 26, 2026AUD $1,749.005Available
- Limited Available PackagesThursdayFeb 19, 2026SundayFeb 22, 2026AUD $1,749.005Available
- Limited Available PackagesThursdayMar 26, 2026SundayMar 29, 2026AUD $1,749.007Available
Note: Chrome provides the smoothest booking process.
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.
It is also recommended that you have travel 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.
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.
You need the fitness required to carry a ~10kg pack for short periods of time. This includes walking off-trail.
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) | 11 | 8.7 | 14.5 |
| Elevation gain (m) | 430 | 230 | 700 |
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 day food carry. Each person will initially have to carry up to ~3.5kg 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.
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.
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 at 2PM 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 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?
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 and trekking through uneven terrain.
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.
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!
