Walking

Bushwalking can offer the most intimate and challenging experiences of the Australian Alps with a diverse range of terrains and environments and ever changing weather conditions the walker can come across almost anything from rocky escarpments with breathtaking views to fields of flowers, historic huts and an abundance of wildlife. Information about organised walks for a wide range of abilities and experiences can be found at the National Park and region visitor centres.

The Australian Alps offer extensive walking track networks and management trail systems. Walkers can choose from very easy to very hard challenges:

  • Short (1 to 4km), well-maintained and marked tracks, sometimes with interpretive information provided;
  • Half-day and day walks; and
  • More remote, overnight or extended walks.

No matter what kind of activities you enjoy in the Alps, you can minimise the impacts you have on the environment and other visitors by following some simple rules. Remember to stay on track and plan your trip.

Challenge yourself to leave as little trace of your visit as possible. Care for the Alps now – so they’ll be just as wonderful in the future.

Australian Alps Walking Track

The Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT) winds through the high country of Victoria, New South Wales and the ACT. It traverses rugged remote alpine country and bushwalkers must always be experienced, self reliant and have good navigation skills. The track takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in each of the five Alps regions – more detailed information specific to each region can be found on our Regions pages.

Mt Baw BawBaw Baw, Rawson and Walhalla

Mushroom Rocks, Mt St Gwinear and Long Tunnel gold mine are just a few of the great walks in the Baw Baw region. There are also some heritage walks around historic Walhalla worth checking out.

Lookout on Mt Bogong | K McCallumBogong and alpine valleys

Around Mt Bogong, there are some lengthy walks to attempt, including trails up Mt Bogong, Mt Feathertop, Mt Buffalo and Mt Hotham. The Wallace Heritage Circuit passes two historic huts and a chalet.

Photo: K McCallumMt Buller and Mansfield

The Buller region is a great area for joining an organised tour to get you into the Howqua River Valley and Crosscut Saw walks. These operators can also provide transport into the area for your own hiking adventures.

Blue LakeKosciuszko and Jindabyne

Spring, summer and autumn walking around Mt Kosciuszko and Jindabyne is breathtaking. Walk to the top of Mt Kosciuszko, traverse the Main Range, or explore the trails around Thredbo.

Photo: K McCallumYarrangobilly and Tumut

The Hume and Hovell walking track is another epic trail that passes through the Yarrangobilly region. Shorter walks around the Yarrangobilly Caves, Nichols Gorge and Blue Waterholes are well worth a visit.