Jagungal Backcountry Expedition
July 29th- August 3rd, 2025
Munyang ⁕ Whites River Hut ⁕ Mt Gungartan
Monero-Ngarigo Country
Designed for skiers and trekkers looking to expand their skills, this expedition is about the journey, not just the turns. You’ll travel with a small team of like-minded adventurers, embracing the challenges of backcountry life—carrying your own gear, adapting to the elements, and learning how to safely navigate Kosciuszko National Park’s wild terrain. It’s not about luxury, and it’s not about chasing powder; it’s about discovering what you’re truly capable of in an environment that rewards effort with breathtaking beauty and unmatched solitude.
Summit and Ski
The Snowy Mountains are Australia’s mecca for backcountry skiing, with more and more adventurers seeking the freedom of human-powered exploration. But stepping into the world of backcountry skiing can feel intimidating—that’s where K7 comes in.
Designed for those with little skiing experience, this expedition makes backcountry skiing accessible and achievable. We travel primarily on lower-angle terrain in the stunning Jagungal Wilderness, where open plains, rolling hills, and historic huts create the perfect environment to build confidence and skills. With expert guidance, breathtaking landscapes, and a supportive group, this trip is your gateway to experiencing the magic of the backcountry—no prior experience is required.
Our Guides
Our Backcountry Guides, Chess and Hamish, bring a unique mix of expertise, energy, and a deep love for the Snowy Mountains.
Chess, the star of the backcountry film MAVEN, is an experienced telemark skier and passionate coach, ready to help you find your flow in the backcountry. Hamish, a true Renaissance man, is not only a skilled guide but also an incredible chef—just wait until night two.
With their guidance, encouragement, and a few good stories around the fire, you’ll feel supported, inspired, and fully immersed in the magic of the
Jagungal Wilderness.
Retreat Itinerary
⁕ Monday 28th July - Sun 3rd, August, 2025 ⁕
If you’ve ever dreamed of summiting and skiing a remote peak under your own power, navigating vast snow-covered plains, or snowcamping under the southern stars, this is your moment — Join us for a 6-Night Backcountry Ski Adventure in the Snowy Mountains. This expedition is for those who crave challenge, skill-building, and the freedom of self-sufficient alpine travel.
Your journey begins with a full day of cross-country ski training at Perisher, ensuring you feel confident before heading into the wild. From there, we’ll ski into our base camp at White River Hut, carrying packs as we glide through vast, snow-covered landscapes. Over the next few days, you’ll refine your backcountry skills, navigate remote terrain, and summit two breathtaking peaks.
Evenings are spent in the warmth of the hut—sharing meals, swapping stories, and recovering after a day of hard-earned adventure. With expert guides leading the way, this expedition is your chance to break free from routine, test yourself in The Australian Alps and return home stronger with new skills to take on your next
big adventure.
Preparing for an expedition is just as important as the journey itself, which is why we begin with a day dedicated to getting everything in order before heading onto the snow.
After picking you up from Canberra Airport, we’ll stop at the necessary gear hire shops to ensure you have everything needed for the alpine conditions. Once we arrive at our accommodation in Jindabyne, we’ll go through a full gear check and pack food, equipment, and sleds to ensure everything is ready for the expedition.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a team dinner—our first opportunity to connect, share excitement, and discuss any final questions.
Day 1: Travel To Jindabyne
The day starts at Perisher, where we take the time to learn telemark skiing fundamentals on groomed cross-country tracks.
After a well-earned lunch, we leave the groomed trails behind and transition into the backcountry, testing our new skills. We make our way toward Island Bend, where we’ll set up camp in a breathtaking riverside location for the night. This will be your first night in the tent! But we’ll still have access to vehicles and extra luxuries. As the sun sets, we gather around the fire for a hearty, slow-cooked campfire stew—fuel for the days ahead.
Day 2: Ski Training
Break camp at Island Bend and travel 5 minutes to the Munyang Power Station, where our 4-day expedition begins. We’ll start our steady ascent up Schlink Road with each stride, skiing deeper into the Snowy Mountains.
By mid-morning, we’ll take a well-earned break at Horse Camp Hut, a classic backcountry shelter nestled among the snow gums. Here, we’ll rest, refuel, and take in the alpine surroundings before continuing our journey.
The trail continues through the Munyang Valley, ever-rising until it reaches Whites River Hut, our base camp for the remaining days of the expedition.
Upon arrival, our guides will run through a snow camping briefing, covering essential skills for staying warm, dry, and comfortable in the alpine environment. With tents pitched and the camp set, the evening is yours to settle in, relax, take in the stillness of the mountains, and prepare for the days of exploration ahead.
Day 3: Ski to Whites River Hut
On Day 4 we journey higher into the Alps as we set out on a day trip to Schlink Hut, with the option to summit Mt. Gungartan—the highest peak in The Kerries Range.
We’ll contour up and over Schlink Pass, weaving through snow-capped gums and taking in the crisp alpine air. After a slight descent, we’ll reach Schlink Hut, a welcome shelter where we can pause to warm up, refuel, and learn the first ski crossing from Kiandra to Kosciuszko.
For those ready to push higher, we’ll venture beyond the hut into The Kerries, following the undulating ridge lines toward the summit of Mt. Gungartan. From the top, sweeping views of the Main Range reward the effort, a true highlight of the expedition.
After soaking in the scenery, we’ll return to Whites River Hut for another well-earned night of rest in the alpine wilderness.
Day 4: Summit Mt Gungartan
Day 5: Summit Mt. Dicky Cooper Bogong
After a big day on the move, today offers a slightly more restful adventure while still delivering incredible backcountry exploration. We’ll set out from Whites River Hut and make our way toward Mt. Dicky Cooper Bogong, a striking peak that offers breathtaking views across the Snowy Mountains.
The route takes us through the undulating alpine terrain of the Rolling Grounds, an open expanse of snow-covered ridge lines and windswept plains. The ascent is steady yet rewarding, offering a chance to hone your backcountry ski skills while soaking in the vastness of the landscape.
From the summit, we’ll take a moment to enjoy the panoramic views before making our way back to Whites River Hut. With a slightly shorter day on the skis, the afternoon offers time to relax, refine backcountry skills, and prepare for the final leg of the expedition.
The final morning begins with packing up camp and preparing for our journey back down the Munyang Valley. We’ll retrace our tracks along Schlink Road, descending through the alpine wilderness and reflecting on the adventure we’ve just completed.
By early afternoon, we’ll return to Jindabyne, where a well-earned reward awaits as we return after days in the backcountry.
In the evening, we’ll come together one last time for a team dinner at the Jindabyne Brewery, sharing stories, laughter, and highlights from the expedition. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the journey and bid farewell to the K7 Guides before heading home, taking with you new skills, unforgettable memories, and a deep appreciation for Australia’s alpine wilderness.
Day 6: Return to Jindabyne
Day 7: Travel to Canberra
Our last morning together begins with a well-earned team breakfast at one of Jindabyne’s favourite cafe’s.
Enjoy another meal that isn’t dehydrated!
After breakfast, we’ll return to Canberra, stopping en route to return any hired gear. We’ll arrive at Canberra Airport by midday, where we’ll bid you farewell in time for your flight or drive home.
This is where your adventure ends!
What’s Included
Meals & Dining
Enjoy nourishing meals to fuel your adventure.
⁕ Welcome and farewell
dinners in Jindabyne.
⁕ A campfire dinner under
the stars on Night 2.
⁕ Breakfast on the first and last morning in Jindabyne.
⁕ Backcountry Meals: Choose to pack your own food with our guidance or opt for our hassle-free meal package.
Hassle-Free Transport
We take care of the logistics so you can focus on the experience.
⁕ Transfers from Canberra Airport to Jindabyne.
⁕ Transport to and from all locations during the expedition.
⁕ Gear sleds provided to help carry your equipment with ease.
Accommodation
Rest and recover in comfort before and after the adventure.
⁕ Two nights in Jindabyne accommodation to settle in and unwind.
⁕ Four nights in remote backcountry huts and snow camping, fully immersed in the alpine wilderness.
All Backcountry Ski Equipment
No gear? No problem. We supply all backcountry ski equipment, including sleds, so you can travel efficiently and comfortably in the snow.
Professional Guidance
& Safety
⁕ Led by professional, certified guides
with extensive backcountry experience.
⁕ Wilderness First Aid Responders on the
team for safety and support.
⁕ K7 Adventures NPWS Ecopass ensuring responsible guiding in the national park.
⁕ Comprehensive Medical First Aid Kit
carried by guides.
The Main Event: A
4-Night Backcountry Ski Expedition
Embark on an epic multi-day adventure in The Jagungal Wilderness Area, deep in the Snowy Mountains. Led by K7 Adventures' expert guides, you’ll traverse vast alpine terrain, experience the magic of backcountry skiing, and stay in historic huts surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
The K7 Extras
Some things can’t be described—you’ll just have to experience them for yourself. Expect thoughtful touches, expert leadership, and the camaraderie that makes a K7 expedition truly unforgettable.
Personalised Assistance
It’s our mission to get you into the backcountry! Have questions about gear, fitness, or logistics? We’re here to help. Prefer to secure your spot with a deposit or break up payments over time, we’ll work with you to find a solution. Just ask!
Pricing & Registration.
$3,500 per person
This all-inclusive expedition covers expert guiding, support in packing all the correct equipment, transport from Canberra, accommodation, and essential safety support—everything you need for a seamless and unforgettable adventure. With small group sizes, personalised coaching, and guided access to remote alpine terrain, this is a rare opportunity to develop your skills in a truly unique Aussie environment.
Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!
We offer flexible payment options, including the ability to secure your spot with a deposit, set up a payment plan, or pay the full amount upfront—click here to view our cancellation policy.
Still have questions? Check out our FAQ’s below, send us a direct enquiry or call us!
Whats Not Included
⁕ Travel to Canberra: Participants are responsible for arranging their own flights or transportation to and from Canberra.
⁕ Gear & Clothing Hire: Winter clothing, tents, and gear are not included, but we can assist with hire options.
⁕ Backcountry Meals: Camp food is not included, allowing you to choose meals that suit your preferences. If you're short on time or unsure where to start, we will provide you with a nutritional guide to help you select and pack the right food and snacks.
FAQs
Who is this expedition for?
This expedition is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience backcountry skiing but may have limited or no prior skiing experience. If you’re comfortable in outdoor environments, enjoy a challenge, and are eager to learn, this trip is for you. We primarily travel on lower-angle terrain in the stunning Jagungal Wilderness, making backcountry skiing accessible and achievable for those new to the sport.
What distances and elevation can I expect during the retreat?
We will be ski touring 5–12 km per day with moderate elevation gain, depending on conditions and the group’s ability. The pace will be steady, with plenty of breaks and expert guidance to ensure everyone moves confidently and comfortably.
What do I need to bring?
We provide all backcountry ski equipment and sleds, so you only need to bring personal clothing, layers, and small essentials. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking to help you prepare. If you’re unsure about gear, we’ll help you source or rent any missing items. What is the group size?
What do I need to bring?
The expedition is capped at 12 participants for a personalized and inclusive experience. We will travel in small guided groups to ensure individualized coaching, safety, and an enjoyable pace.
How do I get there?
Return transportation from Canberra Airport to Jindabyne is included. We’ll coordinate pick-up and drop-off times to align with major flight schedules for convenience.
Can I skip any activities?
Absolutely! While the expedition follows a structured itinerary, you’re welcome to take breaks, sit out ski sessions, or adjust your experience to match your energy levels. This is your adventure, and we want you to enjoy it at your own pace.
