Porcupine walk

Where

Thredbo-Perisher area in Kosciuszko National Park in Snowy Mountains

Accessibility

No wheelchair access

Distance

5.7km return

Time suggested

1hr 30min - 2hrs 30min

Grade

Grade 3

Entry fees

Park entry fees apply

Opening times

Porcupine walk is open to walkers in summer and for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.

What to
bring

Hat, drinking water, sunscreen, snacks, sturdy shoes, insect repellent, clothes for all weather conditions, topographic map, gps, compass

Please note

• In winter, this track is blanketed in snow and forms part of the popular Perisher Range cross-country ski trails. You can also snowshoe along Rock Creek.
• Please take extreme care if you choose to climb Porcupine Rocks. Rocks can shift and may be slippery, and there’s a sheer drop.
• Guided flower and photo tours often run in summer.
• Check the weather before you set out as walking tracks can close in poor weather. This track is exposed so be prepared for high UV and changeable conditions.

Set out along this moderate walk from the Perisher Valley reservoir carpark, a short detour from Kosciuszko Road.

The formed walking track follows Rock Creek before steadily climbing through open woodland to around 1900m - the beginning of the alpine zone. As you get higher, wet heath and alpine mint bush give way to hardy snowgrass, snow gums and rock boulders.   

Continue straight at the junctions with Link track and Wheatley Link track and follow the Porcupine walk signs uphill to a broad gap. You’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Main Range. The track bends left and scrambles over rocks to reach the large outcrop of granite boulders on the ridge, known as Porcupine Rocks. From here, you can enjoy spectacular views to Thredbo River Valley and Bullocks Flat below and back to Perisher and the Main Range. 

Come in early summer to enjoy seasonal wildflowers like yellow paper daisies, billy buttons, or purple flowering heath along the early section of the walk.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info