Jindabyne is surrounded by some of Australia’s most stunning hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the Snowy Mountains. Here are some of the best hiking trails in the area:
Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk
The Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk is a popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, the highest mountain in Australia at 2,228 meters above sea level. The trail is located in the Kosciuszko National Park and is accessible from the Thredbo Village or the Charlotte Pass. The walk is suitable for hikers of all levels, from beginners to experienced hikers, and can take between 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on the starting point.
The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges and alpine landscapes, making it a favourite among nature enthusiasts and photographers. Along the way, hikers will pass through several scenic landmarks, including the Snowy River, the Seaman’s Hut, and the Kosciuszko lookout.
The Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk is best done during the warmer months (December to February), when the weather is mild and the alpine wildflowers are in full bloom. Hikers should come prepared with proper hiking gear and sufficient water and food, as the trail can be steep and challenging at times. Hiking guides and tours are also available for those who want to have a more guided and informative experience.
The Main Range Track
The Main Range Track is a challenging and scenic hiking trail in the Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales, Australia. It is a 22-kilometer return walk that takes hikers through some of the most breathtaking alpine landscapes in Australia. The trail starts from Charlotte Pass and ends at the Mount Kosciuszko Summit, the highest point in Australia.
The Main Range Track passes through several alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and subalpine forests, offering hikers stunning views of the Snowy Mountains, the Rams Head Range, and the Main Range. Along the way, hikers can also see the unique flora and fauna of the alpine environment, including the rare and endemic plants and animals.
The Main Range Track is a challenging hike and requires a good level of fitness and hiking experience. The trail can take up to 8 hours to complete, and hikers should come prepared with proper hiking gear, food, and water. The best time to hike the Main Range Track is during the warmer months (December to February), when the weather is milder and the alpine wildflowers are in bloom. Hiking guides and tours are also available for those who want a more guided and informative experience.
The Yarrangobilly Caves Walk
The Yarrangobilly Caves Walk is a scenic walking trail that takes visitors through a series of magnificent limestone caves and thermal pools located in the Yarrangobilly Valley in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales, Australia. The trail is suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, and there are several shorter and longer options available to suit different preferences.
The Yarrangobilly Caves Walk starts at the Yarrangobilly Caves Visitor Centre, and visitors can choose to take either the Self-guided Jillabenan Cave tour or the Guided Jersey Cave tour. The Jillabenan Cave tour is a self-guided walk that takes visitors through a series of awe-inspiring chambers and passageways, with stunning limestone formations and crystal-clear pools.
The Guided Jersey Cave tour is led by experienced guides and takes visitors through a more challenging cave system, with deeper chambers and more intricate formations. Visitors can also explore the thermal pool complex, which includes the Yarrangobilly Thermal Pool, the Glory Hole, and the Thermal Creek.
The Yarrangobilly Caves Walk is open all year round, and visitors should come prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear, as the temperature inside the caves is cooler than outside. Guided tours are available, and visitors can book them in advance or on-site, depending on availability. The Yarrangobilly Caves Walk is an excellent way to experience the unique beauty of the Australian limestone caves and thermal pools.