Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk
Thredbo-Perisher area in Kosciuszko National Park
Overview
Take in majestic views of Australia's highest peaks on the Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk, near Thredbo and Perisher. Follow the Snowy River and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
- Accessibility
- No wheelchair access
- Distance
- 9km one-way
- Time suggested
- 3hrs
- Grade
- Grade 3
- Trip Intention Form
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It's a good idea to let someone know where you're going. Fill in a trip intention form to send important details about your trip to your emergency contact.
- Personal Locator Beacon
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Hire a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for free at Snowy Region Visitor Centre in Jindabyne, Perisher Valley Office, Tumut Visitor Centre or Khancoban Visitor Centre.
- Entry fees
- Park entry fees apply
- Opening times
- The walk is snowbound in winter, between June and October. Visitors can cross-country ski or snowshoe, but there are no snow poles marking the route.
- Private vehicle access is closed between Perisher and Charlotte Pass in winter, though the route is passable on skis or can be booked with a local transport operator.
- What to
bring - Drinking water, sturdy shoes, clothes for all weather conditions, hat, sunscreen, raincoat, snacks, first aid kit, personal locator beacon, topographic map, compass, gps
- Please note
- Help protect the sensitive alpine environment. Stay on the track when walking and take all waste with you.
- Toilet facilities are available at Guthega and Charlotte Pass, but not at Illawong.
- Cafes in Guthega and Charlotte Pass are opened seasonally during peak holiday periods, check opening hours before you visit. There is otherwise no food or water available, so make sure to bring your own.
- Local shuttle operators are available to provide transport options to and from Guthega and Charlotte Pass. Contact a local Visitor Centre for more information.
Extending from and including the Illawong walk, Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk is an invigorating 9km day walk and an ideal addition to a multi-day bushwalking trip like Snowies Alpine Walk.
Winding through the Australian alps, the walk links Guthega Village and Charlotte Pass. Beginning at Guthega you'll follow the breathtaking Snowy River Valley and experience the full splendour of Kosciuszko National Park's sub-alpine landscape. With uninterrupted horizons and views onto the grandstand of the Main Range, you can fully immerse yourself in nature.
In late spring the mountains come to life as the rivers and creeks swell with snow melt, and the clear, icy water cascades in a mighty rush toward the low country. And as summer arrives, the high country is transformed into a kaleidoscopic carpet of wildflowers.
Beyond the wonders of nature on this walk, you'll cross Spencers Creek on Australia's highest suspension bridge at 1627m above sea level.
Also see
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Snowies Alpine Walk
Snowies Alpine Walk is a 56km multi-day walk in Kosciuszko National Park that proves there’s more to the Snowies than skiing. You’ll climb Australia’s highest mountain, wander through wildflower meadows and be immersed in the solitude of the Snowy Mountains.
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Illawong walk
Illawong walk in Kosciuszko National Park, near Guthega and Charlotte Pass, is a 5km return bushwalk where you can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking by the river, wildlife photography, or swimming in Snowy River.
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Charlotte Pass Village to Perisher Valley walk
Charlotte Pass Village to Perisher Valley walk lets you explore the natural wonders of NSW high country. 12.7km one way and immersed in nature, it’s an ideal day walk in Thredbo-Perisher area.
Map
Map
Map legend
Local alerts
For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/guthega-to-charlotte-pass-walk/local-alerts
General enquiries
- National Parks Contact Centre
- 7am to 7pm daily
- 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) for the cost of a local call within Australia excluding mobiles
- parks.info@environment.nsw.gov.au
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).
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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.
Visitor info
All the practical information you need to know about Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk.
Track grading
Features of this track
Distance
9km one-way
Time
3hrs
Quality of markings
Clearly sign posted
Experience required
No experience required
Gradient
Short steep hills
Steps
Many steps
Quality of path
Formed track, some obstacles
Getting there and parking
Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk is in the Thredbo-Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park. You can start the walk from either Guthega or Charlotte Pass.
To get to Guthega and walk from there:
- Drive from Jindabyne along Kosciuszko Road towards Perisher.
- Turn off onto Guthega Road which is sealed until you reach Guthega power station.
- From Guthega power station, continue straight ahead along an unsealed road for around 6.5km to Guthega Village.
- Park your car at the Guthega Centre and follow the signs to the Guthega walk.
To get to Charlotte Pass and walk from there:
- Drive along Kosciuszko Road from Jindabyne.
- Go past the ski resorts of Smiggin Holes, Perisher Valley and Charlotte Pass Village to Charlotte Pass.
In winter (June to October) the walk is snowbound and only accessible on cross-country skis or snowshoes. There are no snow poles marking the route and experience in backcountry winter travel is necessary. If you plan to access this area in winter, please refer to Alpine safety advice.
Road quality
- Sealed and unsealed road to Guthega
- Sealed road to Charlotte Pass
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.
- Mixture of sealed and unsealed roads
Vehicle access
- Most roads suitable for 2WD vehicles
Weather restrictions
- Snow chains required after snow
Parking
- There is a car park at Guthega village and parking is also available at Charlotte Pass a short walk from the Charlotte Pass trackhead, but it is limited. Arrive early, or book a shuttle with a local operator to avoid disappointment.
- Contact a local Visitor Centre for more information on shuttle operators.
In winter:
- There is no private vehicle access to parking at Guthega or Charlotte Pass.
- Park at Perisher and arrange a shuttle with a local operator.
Facilities
Toilets
Available at Guthega Village and Charlotte Pass.
- Non-flush toilets
Carpark
Maps and downloads
Accessibility
Disability access level - no wheelchair access
Permitted
- You can cross-country ski or snowshoe in this area in winter.
- Walking isn't recommended in winter, when this track is snowbound.
Camping
Fishing
You can fish in rivers and streams between the October and June long weekends. A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required to fish in all waters. Fishing in dams and lakes is permitted year-round, but some waterways may close temporarily or have restrictions. Refer to the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide for information.
Prohibited
Camp fires and solid fuel burners
Open/wood fires aren't permitted in alpine areas. Remember to bring a gas or fuel stove, or solid fuel burner, if you intend to cook.
Cycling
Cycling, including fat bikes or snow bikes, is not permitted on this track.
Drones
Flying a drone for recreational purposes is prohibited in this area. Drones may affect public enjoyment, safety and privacy, interfere with park operations, or pose a threat to wildlife. See the Drones in Parks policy.
This area may be a declared Drone Exclusion Zone, or may be subject to Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules for flying near airports, aerodromes and helicopter landing sites. See CASA's Drone Flyer Rules.
Commercial filming and photography
Commercial filming or photography is prohibited without prior consent. You must apply for permission and contact the local office.
Generators
Horses
Pets
Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.
Smoking
NSW national parks are no smoking areas. The alpine resorts of Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass, Selwyn, Ski Rider and Kosciuszko Tourist Park are exempt, though some commercial and outdoor places within these resorts may have no smoking areas.
Visitor centre
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Snowy Region Visitor Centre
49 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne NSW 2627 - 8.30am to 5pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
- 02 6450 5600
Nearby towns
Cooma (105 km)
The Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre is a state-of-the-art visitor facility showcasing the story of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme from the early construction days to the role the scheme plays today in the development of Australia.
Jindabyne (44 km)
For those heading to the Snowy Mountains snowfields,
Charlotte Pass (39 km)
Explore the magic of Charlotte Pass and the surrounding Kosciuszko National Park on these stunning guided walks. Local guides share their knowledge of the area, native wildlife and plant varieties.
Learn more
Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk is in Thredbo-Perisher area. Here are just some of the reasons why this park is special:
Explore the rooftop of Australia
Skiers and snowboarders will be familiar with the fabulous snow sport facilities at Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass, but there are endless activities year-round. This area is a mecca for walkers and riders. Take in the spectacular 3600 views from Snow Gums boardwalk or Dead Horse Gap walk. A hike to Mount Kosciuszko is a must, while the awe-inspiring Main Range loop explores glacial lakes and the dramatic Western Fall. Take to 2 wheels on Thredbo Valley track, or get an adrenaline charge on the famous Cannonball Run. If you need some inspiration, stop by the Snowy Region Visitor Centre for tips on top experiences, guided tours, and where to stay. Kids can also learn more on a school excursion to the Kosciuszko Education Centre.
- Cross-country skiing activities in Perisher Feel the thrill of carving fresh tracks on the cross-country trails with Perisher X-Country. It’s a beautiful way to experience the alpine environment of Kosciuszko National Park.
- Kosciuszko laser biathlon sessions Whether it's summer or winter, give the thrilling sport of biathlon a try. With the help of instructors from NSW Biathlon, you'll learn to combine the skill of laser target shooting with skiing or roller skiing.
- Kosciuszko walk - Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko This iconic day walk from Thredbo will have you conquering the summit of Mount Kosciuszko in a couple of hours. You'll quite literally be on a high as you soak in the epic views from Australia's highest point.
- Perisher Valley Office Perisher Valley Office, in the heart of Perisher Valley, is a handy last-minute stop for advice, maps, hiking essentials and important information before your alpine adventures in Kosciuszko National Park.
- Schlink Hut walking track Schlink Hut walking track is a high alpine hiking or mountain biking adventure near Perisher, visiting 3 historic huts in Kosciuszko National Park. Winter access is by snowshoe or cross-country skiing only.
World-class wilderness
In recognition of Kosciuszko's unique value as a conservation area, it's been named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. More than half of the area of the park, over 350,000ha, has been declared wilderness, including the rugged Western Fall wilderness of the Main Range. It also contains Blue Lake, a rare cirque lake formed by the head of a glacier. Blue Lake is a listed Ramsar site, recognised for the role it plays in preserving rare and threatened species. The Australian Alps received National Heritage recognition in 2008, and were named one of Australia's National Landscapes.
- Schlink Hut walking track Schlink Hut walking track is a high alpine hiking or mountain biking adventure near Perisher, visiting 3 historic huts in Kosciuszko National Park. Winter access is by snowshoe or cross-country skiing only.
Alpine plants and animals
The park has over 200 species of alpine flowering plants and provides important habitat to nationally endangered species, such as southern corroboree frogs and broad-toothed rats. Ancient snow gums, twisted and stunted from the blasting effects of wind, snow and ice, mix with alpine ash and fragrant alpine mint bush. Above the treeline only heath, snow grass and the hardiest plants face the cold. Slow-growing mountain plum pine, some over 500 years-old, cling to boulders for warmth, providing shelter and food for threatened mountain pygmy-possums. Bogs of spongy sphagnum moss soak up the snow melt, to be released into alpine streams. From late spring to early summer, the heath is dotted with patches of wildflowers like alpine sunrays and snow daisies, yellow billy buttons, and the anemone buttercup, found only in Kosciuszko National Park.
- Biodiversity survey The biodiversity survey school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 4 (Years 7-8) students focuses on Science. Investigate what 'biodiversity' means and use field equipment to assess the biodiversity of sample quadrats along a transect in the montane forest.
- Biodiversity survey The Biodiversity survey school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 5 (Years 9-10) students focuses on science and fieldwork skills. Investigate what 'biodiversity' means and use field equipment to assess the biodiversity of sample quadrats along a transect in the montane forest.
- Charlotte Pass Village to Perisher Valley walk Charlotte Pass Village to Perisher Valley walk lets you explore the natural wonders of NSW high country. 12.7km one way and immersed in nature, it’s an ideal day walk in Thredbo-Perisher area.
- Environmental scientist Primary students learn to think like an environmental scientist in this Stage 3 Science and Technology excursion. They'll investigate living things and their habitats in Kosciuszko National Park, and then plan and do their own simple scientific investigation.
- Going up the mountain Going up the mountain is a school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 6 (Years 11-12) students focusing on Geography. Students will use field work to record and compare the geology, weather, native plants, animals, human use and sustainability of the montane, sub-alpine and alpine ecosystems.
Unique landscapes
Kosciuszko National Park is a huge park containing Australia's only true alpine environment, the highest part of the Great Dividing Range, and all of NSW's ski resorts. Above the treeline of snow gums - the only trees to grow at this altitude - is a unique landscape of alpine herb fields, feldmark, bogs and tarns. A walk to the highest peak in mainland Australia, Mount Kosciuszko, is the perfect way to see this landscape. Walk from Thredbo or Charlotte Pass, and marvel at the huge granite tors and lakes carved out during Australia's last Ice Age, between 35,000 and 10,000 years ago.
- Cross-country mountain bike tours Challenge yourself on the brilliant trails of Kosciuszko National Park with K7 Adventures. From beginner to advanced level, there's a mountain bike experience waiting for you in the Snowy Mountains.
- Environmental scientist Primary students learn to think like an environmental scientist in this Stage 3 Science and Technology excursion. They'll investigate living things and their habitats in Kosciuszko National Park, and then plan and do their own simple scientific investigation.
- Going up the mountain Going up the mountain is a school excursion in Kosciuszko National Park for Stage 6 (Years 11-12) students focusing on Geography. Students will use field work to record and compare the geology, weather, native plants, animals, human use and sustainability of the montane, sub-alpine and alpine ecosystems.
- Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk Take in majestic views of Australia's highest peaks on the Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk, near Thredbo and Perisher. Follow the Snowy River and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
- Kosciuszko - a special place Kosciuszko a special place is a presentation for stage 6 (year 11-12) students focusing on Geography. This excursion highlights the unique natural and cultural features of Kosciuszko National Park, interaction of the four spheres, human impacts, sustainability and park management. Students have the opportunity to have their questions answered by an NPWS education officer.
Plants and animals protected in this park
Animals
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Bare-nosed wombat (Vombatus ursinus)
A large, squat marsupial, the Australian bare-nosed wombat is a burrowing mammal found in coastal forests and mountain ranges across NSW and Victoria. The only other remaining species of wombat in NSW, the endangered southern hairy-nosed wombat, was considered extinct until relatively recently.
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Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae)
The largest of Australian birds, the emu stands up to 2m high and is the second largest bird in the world, after the ostrich. Emus live in pairs or family groups. The male emu incubates and rears the young, which will stay with the adult emus for up to 2 years.
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Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)
One of the most fascinating and unusual Australian animals, the duck-billed platypus, along with the echidna, are the only known monotremes, or egg-laying mammals, in existence. The platypus is generally found in permanent river systems and lakes in southern and eastern NSW and east and west of the Great Dividing Range.
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Common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)
One of the most widespread of Australian tree-dwelling marsupials, the common brushtail possum is found across most of NSW in woodlands, rainforests and urban areas. With strong claws, a prehensile tail and opposable digits, these native Australian animals are well-adapted for life amongst the trees.
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Common ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus)
Commonly found in forests, woodlands and leafy gardens across eastern NSW, the Australian ringtail possum is a tree-dwelling marsupial. With a powerful tail perfectly adapted to grasp objects, it forages in trees for eucalypt leaves, flowers and fruit.
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Short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus)
One of only 2 egg-laying mammals in the world, the short-beaked echidna is one of the most widespread of Australian native animals. Covered in spines, or quills, they’re equipped with a keen sense of smell and a tube-like snout which they use to break apart termite mounds in search of ants.
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Wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax)
With a wingspan of up to 2.5m, the wedge-tailed eagle is Australia’s largest bird of prey. These Australian animals are found in woodlands across NSW, and have the ability to soar to heights of over 2km. If you’re bird watching, look out for the distinctive diamond-shaped tail of the eagle.
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Guthega skink (Liopholis guthega)
The endangered Guthega skink is the highest recorded skink in Australia. It lives only in alpine Kosciuszko National Park, and the Victorian Alps, above 1600m.
Plants
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Billy buttons (Craspedia spp. )
Billy buttons are attractive Australian native plants that are widespread throughout eastern NSW in dry forest, grassland and alpine regions such as Kosciuszko National Park. The golden-yellow globe-shaped flowers are also known as woollyheads. Related to the daisy, billy buttons are an erect herb growing to a height of 50cm.
Environments in this area
School excursions (11)
- Going up the mountain, Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography
- Above the treeline, Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography
- Biodiversity survey, Stage 4 (Years 7-8), Science
- Kosciuszko - a special place, Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography
- Biodiversity survey, Stage 5 (Years 9-10), Science
- Kosciuszko - a special place, Stage 5 (Years 9-10), Geography
- Teddy bears' picnic, Early Stage 1 (Kindergarten), HSIE, Science and Technology
- Environmental scientist, Stage 3 (Years 5-6), Science and Technology
- Kosciuszko keepers and seekers, Stage 3 (Years 5-6), Geography
- Mountain pygmy-possum, Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography
- Going up the mountain, Stage 4 (Years 7-8), Geography