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School excursion

Above the treeline

Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography, Thredbo-Perisher area in Kosciuszko National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Info for teachers

Everything you need to know about Above the treeline.

Program outline

There are three location options for this program.

Mount Kosciuszko walk (meet guide at Charlotte Pass parking area):

  • Welcome, introductions, safety briefing, toilets (15min)
  • Walk along Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk and return same route (5hrs)

Blue Lake walk (meet guide at Charlotte Pass parking area):

  • Welcome, introductions, safety briefing, toilets (15min)
  • Walk to Blue Lake, crossing the Snowy River and return same route (5hrs)
  • If Snowy River conditions are unsuitable to cross, the program will be changed to the Mount Kosciuszko walk.

Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko walk (meet the guide at Thredbo Village Centre coach parking area):

  • Welcome, introductions, safety briefing, toilets (15min)
  • Chairlift ride
  • Walk to Mount Kosciuszko and return same route (6hrs)
  • Kosciuszko Express chairlift price is not included
  • If the Kosciuszko chairlift is not operating, the program will be changed to one of the other location options.

What to bring

Please wear long pants, closed comfortable shoes and bring a hat, beanie and sunscreen. Be ready for extreme cold weather conditions with a jumper, thermals, gloves and raincoat. And remember to bring food and any necessary medications.

It’s a good idea to pack your belongings in a backpack rather than a plastic bag because we have some curious birds who may try to break in and share your lunch with you.

Getting there and parking

Kosciuszko walk begins at Thredbo Village in Kosciuszko National Park. From Jindabyne:

  • Travel along the Kosciuszko Road and turn left onto Alpine Way
  • Travel 31km along the Alpine Way and turn right into Thredbo Village
  • Catch the Kosciuszko Express chairlift to the start of the track

Road quality

All 2WD vehicles need to carry snow chains in winter, between June and October long weekends, on:

  • Kosciuszko Road (to Perisher)
  • Guthega Road
  • Alpine Way between Thredbo and Tom Groggin

Snow chains are recommended for all vehicles driving in the park, including 4WD and AWD, in the event of extreme weather. Read our snow driving in Kosciuszko tips.

Parking

Parking is available at Thredbo.

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

Pre activity briefing: participants will be briefed at the start of the activity/day.

Safety equipment: NPWS staff carry radios and first aid kits, hold current first aid certificates and are aware of emergency procedures.

Staff accreditation: NPWS staff have current Senior First Aid accreditation. They are experienced in working with groups of students in the natural environment and have excellent knowledge of the specific areas they are visiting including potential hazards. NPWS is committed to a Child Safe and Friendly Environment. Our staff have been screened for child-related employment and have completed a Working with Children Check.

Emergencies: NPWS staff are trained to deal with emergencies and emergency procedures are in place. Ongoing supervision of a student following first aid treatment will be the responsibility of the visiting school.

Risk assessment and risk benefits

Our rangers and guides have the technical skill and experience to assess the risks and the benefits of a variety of activities delivered as part of our learning programs.

We believe in including opportunities that allow students to learn and experience for themselves through exploration in the natural environment.

Please make your own risk assessment based on the information provided. Detailed potential risks and controls are provided for the site to assist teachers in risk management planning. Teachers and carers should be aware of, and consider the needs, abilities and medical conditions of students when visiting this site. The supervision of students remains the responsibility of the teacher. The school must ensure an adequate number of adult supervisors are present.

Accessibility

Disability access level - no wheelchair access

Not suitable for wheelchairs. Please let us know in advance if you are bringing someone with special needs so that we can plan accordingly.

Above the treeline Enquire now

Park info

  • in the Thredbo-Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains region
  • The Thredbo-Perisher area is open all year, but some roads and trails may close due to weather conditions or park management issues. Kosciuszko Road is closed between Perisher and Charlotte Pass in winter (June to October long weekends).

  • Park entry fees apply on Alpine Way and Kosciuszko Road

    Winter (June to October long weekends): $29 per vehicle per day (24hrs from purchase); motorcycles $12; bus passengers $11.45 per adult, $3.60 per child per day. Find out more about the winter entry surcharge.

    Rest of Year: $17 per vehicle per day (24hrs); motorcycles $7; bus passengers $6.60 per adult, $2.20 per child per day.

    Passes: Day passes, multi-day passes and annual All Parks Pass available from NPWS visitor centres, local agents and operating vehicle entry stations. Single and Multi-Day passes are also available via the Park'nPay app. Short Breaks Pass: $68 for 5 days park entry at price of 4 days (not valid winter).

    Read our Annual Pass FAQs for information.

    Buy annual pass

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