Thredbo Hikes Track Report | 18 December

Track Report by Rachael Schultz | Guest Services Outdoor Operations Manager

As we close in on the festive season, hiking holidays are to be had! Prepare for stunning views, dramatically diverse temperatures and persistent flies.

THREDBO TO MT KOSCIUSZKO 

Throughout the alpine area (1850m) there are 43 species of flora that have flowered to date. 21 species found in the alpine area are endemic, meaning they are only found here and make up approximately 10% of the alpine flora. It is truly a special time of year to witness much of these flowers in all their glory as they have a short growing season, development is rapid and for some it’s short lived.

Mountain Celery, Gwendas Daisy, Herbfield Celmisia, Chamomile Sunrays, Candle Heath and Alpine Stackhousia are standouts along the way to Mt Kosciuszko from Thredbo. At a closer look hikers will observe Silver Ewartia and Carpet Heath in bloom.

Track work continues on the last pitch to the summit from Rawsons Pass, keep watch for trip hazards.

MT TOWNSEND  

Beyond Mt Kosciuszko is Mt Townsend standing at 2209m, making it Australia’s second highest peak.  Named after Thomas Townsend who surveyed the entire range and ironically never set foot on the summit itself, this walk will not disappoint.  It is one of the more challenging walks out of Thredbo and our guides will eagerly take you exploring to the summit. The 22km return trip takes you off the Main Range track, across boulder fields and up a short rock scramble to experience grand 360-degree views towards Mt Kosciuszko and beyond, putting the shear size of the range into perspective.

THREDBO VALLEY

The flora and fauna within Thredbo Valley is not to be overlooked. Whether it’s along Merritts Nature track or Dead Horse Gap trail hikers will encounter meadows of wildflowers and beautiful Snow Gums gnarled from hundreds of years of withstanding the wild mountain conditions. The Alpine Shaggy Pea affectionately referred to as the ‘egg and bacon’ plant is notably growing in clusters of orange-yellow pea flowers with orange-red keels throughout the valley.

As we enter the holiday season be sure to check all trail status updates here.

We acknowledge the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to them their cultures, and elders past, present and future.