The best time to visit Mount Kosciuszko
Standing over 2,000 metres above sea level, Mount Kosciuszko is the highest mountain in Australia and a rite of passage for everyone travelling in our sunburnt country.
But when is the best time to visit it – winter or summer?
We’re going to look at the case for each, examining the holiday options of each, so you can figure out the best time for you to visit the rooftop of Australia.
Summer
Australia might be the only continent in the world where everyone has the opportunity to reach its highest summit, irrespective of age, fitness level or experience, and in the summer months you will be hard pressed to find a prettier spot than our highest peak.
In warmer times you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to activities. You can enjoy camping or cave tours, hiking, horse riding, mountain biking and captivating history hours, set amongst the spectacular sight of Australia’s high alpine scenery.
If you loving hiking summer is the best time to try the Kosciuszko Walk, or the significantly more difficult Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk. Both tracks are popular with hikers, and closed in winter as they become snowbound. Highlights include the magnificent marigold, silver snow daisies, mountain roses and buttercups that look spectacular in early summer.
Winter
If you’ve got a set of thermals and are willing to brave the cooler temperatures, perhaps a winter visit to Mount Kosciuszko is the ticket. This part of Australia provides an absolute winter wonderland for people who are willing to brave the wind and snow.
Hiking is a bit slower going in winter and some of the passes are closed when they become snowed over, but many tour guides over snow-shoeing experiences that gives you an opportunity to enjoy the tranquillity and space in a safe, controlled environment.
And if you’re someone who loves to ski, then there arguably isn’t a better location in Australia during the cooler months, with large resorts like Thredbo, Perisher and smaller ones like Charlotte Pass, Guthega, Selwyn Snow Resort, Smiggin Holes and Sawpit Creek offering a range of options for people after an alpine adventure in the snow.
Verdict
Ah, well that’s a tough one. Mount Kosciuszko has a range of options all year round and you’re doing yourself a disservice if you exclusively visit it at one time of the year. The best way may well be to hedge your bets and go during winter and summer!
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