Thredbo Hikes Track Report | 1 December

Track Report by Rachael Schultz | Guest Services Outdoor Operations Manager

It is the first day of summer and this is your reminder to wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days. In the alpine, the ultraviolet radiation increases with altitude as there are fewer molecules in the air.

THREDBO TO MT KOSCIUSZKO

The heaths in the fragile bog and fen community between Eagles Nest and The Lookout is commencing its annual rainbow of colours. With Mountain Celery growing tall buds out of the low lying dioecious herb, its white and cream top will bloom to a cauliflower-like head. Bog Heath, Coral Heath and Swamp Heath are a blanket of dense low lying shrubs with tiny delicate white flowers.

Towards the summit, the snowmelt and rain continue to make a happy habitat for Mountain Galaxias, a 70-80mm long native fish. These little survivors rely on water tension to climb up and over edges before nestling into cosy, rocky spots on a sunny day, it can appear they are sunbaking. The rocks absorb heat from the sun which helps the fish to regulate their temperature.

Two major snow crossings remain to the summit and as the sun warms the surface in the afternoon, the risk of slipping increases. Caution is advised and hiking poles are recommended.
Rawson’s Pass toilet block is now open.

BEYOND MT KOSCIUSZKO  

Major snowdrifts remain across areas above 1900m beyond Mt Kosciuszko along the Main Range Track, sturdy hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended to cross these areas cautiously. These drifts are steep and substantial amounts of water continue to flow beneath. The views are grand and the glacial cirques are full. Anemone Buttercups are blooming around Lake Albina, one of the worlds largest buttercups which continue its journey of recovery after 135 years of grazing in the Snowy Mountains. Purple flowers of Hebe bloom across the western edges towards Mt Lee in the feldmark zone. The low lying, dense shrub acts as a windbreak against erosion.

This hike offers dramatic mountain scenery, is rich in history, has significant ecological importance and can be booked with a guide via Thredbo Guided Hikes – Alpine Lakes Private Hike.

The water level at the Snowy River crossing to Charlotte Pass remains high and should only be done by anyone who is comfortable to get wet feet and confident in rock hopping in moving water.

To make the most of lift operating hours and hiking opportunities check out the lift and trail status 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 emerging.