Kosciuszko National Park
National Park in New South Wales
Written by Ben Cole· Updated Apr 2026Quick Actions
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About Kosciuszko National Park
Kosciuszko National Park is Australia's largest national park at 6,900 km² and contains the continent's highest peaks, including Mount Kosciuszko (2,228 m). The park encompasses alpine meadows, glacial lakes, ancient snow gum woodlands, and winter ski resorts. In summer, wildflowers carpet the Main Range and golden-hued snow gums provide a striking landscape around the summit.
About
Kosciuszko National Park is Australia's largest national park at 6,900 km² and contains the continent's highest peaks, including Mount Kosciuszko (2,228 m). The park encompasses alpine meadows, glacial lakes, ancient snow gum woodlands, and winter ski resorts. In summer, wildflowers carpet the Main Range and golden-hued snow gums provide a striking landscape around the summit.
History & Significance
Kosciuszko National Park was established in 1944 and is Australia's largest national park at 6,900 km². It protects the continent's highest peaks and significant alpine ecosystems, including rare snow gum woodlands and glacial landscapes shaped by ice age activity. The park has become central to both outdoor recreation and conservation of Australia's alpine environment.
Sources & References
Warnings
Getting There
Drive 500 km south of Sydney via Hume Highway to Cooma then Snowy Mountains Highway. Thredbo is 5.5 hours from Sydney. Coach services from Cooma in winter.
Parking
Free parking at major trailheads and visitor areas. Thredbo and Perisher have large day-use car parks (capacity varies seasonally). In snow season, chains are mandatory on many roads and parking fills quickly on weekends. Accessible parking available at key facilities including visitor centres and Thredbo chairlift.
Visitor Tips
- •In summer, take the Thredbo chairlift to Eagles Nest and walk 13 km return to the summit via the Main Range. This is the easiest route to the top of Australia.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- National
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Paid
- Duration
- 2–5 days
- Best Time
- December–February (summer alpine walking); June–September (skiing)
Location
- Region
- Snowy Mountains
- State
- New South Wales
Good to Know
Highlights
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages — from accessible summit walks and chairlift rides for families with young children to advanced skiing, mountaineering, and backcountry hiking for experienced adventurers
- Shade/Cover
- Limited shade
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
Thredbo and Perisher have multiple cafés and restaurants. Summer picnic areas at Charlotte Pass, Blue Lake carpark, and trailhead facilities. Bring supplies for backcountry walking — limited services in remote areas.
Features
Facilities
Nearby
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